In a light-hearted spirit of competition, Somerset Amphitheater will host the Border Battle Weekend on its newly improved festival grounds. The event is an extension of the popular Border Battle Beer Fest; this year adding two stages of live music, a Makers Market, grownup yard games, fine Midwestern food and a lot of fun with the MN vs. WI theme. Early Bird discounted tickets available through May 13.

BORDER BATTLE BEER FEST

Breweries will face off once again in the ultimate challenge between Minnesota and Wisconsin; judges and attendees will choose the winning brew from nearly 70 varieties of craft beers from across the two states. Attendees will vote for their favorite brew to determine the “People’s Choice Award” and judges will be onsite to ultimately pick the winner of the Golden Firkin. Ticket holders will get a tasting glass, three hours of craft beer sampling and access to the Border Battle Weekend music and events.

LIVE MUSIC

The live music will begin Friday night on the Maggie’s Saloon Stage. On Saturday, bands will perform on Maggie’s stage and an outdoor stage within the festival grounds.
Bands Representing Minnesota: White Iron Band, Charlie Parr, Useful Jenkins, Crankshaft & The Gear Grinders, Kind Country, Sans Souci, Stereo Confession, and Sam Cassidy

Bands Representing Wisconsin: Field Report, Hugh Bob & the Hustle, Dead Horses, Trapper Schoepp, Vic and Gab, Juniper Tar, The Fatty Acids, Porcupine

THE MAKERS MARKET

Minnesota and Wisconsin are full of skilled craftsmen and talented artists. The Makers Market will feature beautiful, functional and well-designed items. Craftsmanship and artistry meet in the form of leather goods, metal, glass, ceramics, textiles and wood. All the products must be hand-made in Minnesota or Wisconsin. And half the fun is getting to "meet the makers". Demonstrations will be ongoing throughout the weekend.

Other highlights include: Bluegrass n’ Bloodies Brunch on Saturday and Sunday, Hotdish Throwdown recipe competition, Human Games Battleground with traditional yard and tailgating games, Wine and Spirits Tasting on Saturday night and Big Ole BINGO games on Friday night and Sunday. (More to be announced)