March 1, 2026

Sunny skies and mild temperatures greeted visitors to the 2026 Winterfest in Kennett Square on Saturday.

Daniel Embree is the executive director of Kennett Collaborative, the organizer of Winterfest.

“Winterfest is our version of Kennett Brewfest. This is our community fundraiser to raise money for our community programming and the nonprofit things we do throughout the year,” he said.

Embree referred to the event as a craft beer festival and tasting event. More than 60 breweries were on hand, offering visitors a chance to try their beers and to learn more about craft beer.

He was asked whether the event and the Brewfest are anything more than just an excuse for people to drink beer.

Embree chuckled and said, “These two events, Winterfest and Brewfest, are half of our annual funding. It’s because of events like this that we can have a Memorial Day Parade or the Third Thursdays, where we shut down the streets for outdoor dining, and the things we do to support small businesses in town to promote Kennett Square as a destination. All of that work is made possible because of events like this.”

Among the breweries taking part were Hidden Rover, Bellefonte Brewing out of Wilmington, Sly Fox, Victory, and Space Cadet Brewing out of Philadelphia. Some of the food vendors included Mini Millies Pasta cart and Tom’s Handcrafted Pizza Cones. The pizza cones are ice cream cones stuffed with cheese and pizza toppings.

Colleen Heinberger and her friends were out and about enjoying, and she said they don’t need an excuse to drink beer, but that it’s a great event.

“We love beer, and we love hanging out with our friends,” she said. “It’s a great vibe, and we get to try all these great beers.”

Heinberger added that the fundraising part of the event gives it a special appeal.

“That makes it even better. Not only are we having a good time drinking beer, but we’re also helping other people. What could be better,” she said.

She added that she and her friend would probably try every beer there, “Except for the nonalcoholic beer. Why bother with that?”

Returning visitors included Matt Jenkins from Kirkwood, Pa., attired in his Whiskey Rebellion cape.

“This brings out tons of great breweries, and it’s always a good event,” he said.

Also back this year was Sean Wills of Exton.

“This is the best event in the area,” Wills said. “It’s got the best selection of beer, and it’s the best organized event.”