Hops on the Rock: 100+ Craft Beers, Local Brewers & Fall Fun in Sterling! 🍻

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Janna Groharing, executive director of Sterling Main Street, to talk about the annual Hops on the Rock craft beer festival.

The event returns Saturday, Oct. 10, at the Sterling Marketplace outdoor farmers market pavilion, featuring 90 to 100 different beers, six home brewing groups, downtown businesses, food vendors, live music, a photo booth, and more.

Whether you're a craft beer enthusiast or someone who simply wants to try something new, Hops on the Rock gives attendees the chance to sample a wide variety of beers without committing to a full pint. This year's event will also feature specialty and limited-release beers, along with offerings from local home brewers.

📅 Hops on the Rock
📍 Sterling Marketplace Outdoor Farmers Market Pavilion
📌 111 W. Second St., Sterling, IL
⏰ Saturday, Oct. 10 | 2–6 p.m.

Ticket Information:
🍻 VIP: $50 | 2–3 p.m. | Advance purchase only
🍺 General Admission: $30 in advance | $35 at the door | 3–6 p.m.
🚗 Designated Driver: $10 | 21+

VIP guests receive an extra hour of sampling, a special tasting glass, drink lanyard, and T-shirt.

Hops on the Rock is also a fundraiser for Sterling Main Street, helping support community programs, downtown beautification, and other initiatives throughout the year.

Watch the full episode to hear what's new at this year's festival and why Hops on the Rock continues to be a favorite fall event in Sterling!

👉 Don’t forget to like, share, comment and subscribe for more local stories from the Sauk Valley and beyond.

🎧 Listen to the full podcast and explore more at https://theradar.online

🎤 Highlights:

00:00 – Welcome to Along the Rock

00:32 – What Is Hops on the Rock?

01:10 – The History of Hops on the Rock

02:03 – The Event Moves to the Marketplace Pavilion

02:39 – What to Expect at Hops on the Rock

03:02 – 30–50 Brands & Nearly 100 Beers

04:03 – Food, Music & Donut Holes

04:39 – The Pretzel Necklace Tradition

05:18 – Six Local Homebrewing Groups

07:20 – Local Bars Join the Celebration

08:20 – International & Unique Beer Selections

09:13 – New Beers to Try Every Year

09:56 – Finding Your New Favorite Beer

10:33 – Why Beer Tastings Are Perfect for Picky Drinkers

11:06 – Location, Date & Event Hours

12:09 – VIP Tickets & What You Get

13:26 – General Admission & Designated Driver Tickets

14:31 – How Hops on the Rock Supports Sterling Main Street

15:44 – Live Music, Food & Photo Booth Fun

16:25 – Favorite Beers from Past Hops on the Rock Events

17:42 – Local Microbreweries & One-of-a-Kind Beers

18:21 – Looking Ahead to This Year's Event

18:41 – Thanks for Watching

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