What you'll be drinking this weekend at Evolution Festival

As the Evolution Festival returns to Forest Park this year, music and beverage enthusiasts alike are in for a special treat. Alongside headlining acts like the Killers and Beck, this year’s festival brings an expanded focus on the rich drink culture that makes St. Louis a hotspot for beer and spirits.

“We wanted to build a beverage program that reflects the soul of St. Louis,” says Lisa Litvag, co-founder of Xplor. “St. Louis has such a strong brewing history, but we also wanted to honor the growing spirits scene. It’s all about balancing tradition with innovation.”

The Beer Garden

At the heart of Evolution Festival’s drink offerings is the Beer Garden, a celebration of the city’s long-standing love affair with beer. With over ten draft selections on tap, visitors can expect a wide range of flavors from both local breweries and national brands. The Beer Garden will feature local favorites like Urban Chestnut Brewing’s Zwickel and Evolution Wheat, as well as 4 Hands Brewing’s City Wide Pale Ale and Yes Tea.

“St. Louis craves beer—all kinds of beer,” Litvag said. “From our local craft scene to national favorites, we wanted to make sure everyone could find something they love.”

This year, the Beer Garden will also host one of the festival’s three stages, creating a perfect atmosphere where visitors can sip their favorite brew while enjoying live performances. With ample seating, it’s designed to be a laid-back space for both beer lovers and music fans to unwind.

Evolution Festival 2023. Photo courtesy of Xplor

The Spirits Lounge

For those with a taste for spirits, the Spirits Lounge offers a more intimate experience. Featuring some of the top names in the spirits world, this lounge will serve up specialty drinks using brands like Crown Royal, Tito’s Vodka, and Cabo Wabo Tequila.

“We wanted to elevate the cocktail experience at the festival,” says Litvag. “It’s not just about grabbing a drink—it’s about enjoying something that’s been carefully crafted, something that enhances the overall festival vibe.”

In addition to whiskey and tequila, the Spirits Lounge will also feature refreshing offerings from BeatBox Beverages and locally produced LOU LOU Wines, adding a splash of variety to the cocktail menu. Although seating might be limited to a few high-tops, the Spirits Lounge promises to be a lively spot for those who appreciate a great drink.

Evolving the Drink Program

One of the biggest shifts this year is the festival’s decision to focus more on beer. In contrast to last year’s whiskey-centric offerings, the 2024 Evolution Festival is all about celebrating the breadth of St. Louis’ brewing history.

“We really wanted to rally around St. Louis as a beer city,” explains Litvag. “There’s just something so iconic about enjoying a locally brewed beer in a place with so much brewing heritage. But don’t worry, whiskey lovers—we’ve got plenty of great options for you too!”

In addition to the beer selection, visitors can indulge in specialty cocktails featuring Kentucky Coffee Whiskey, a smooth, coffee-flavored whiskey distilled in Kentucky. With rich coffee aromas and sweet notes of vanilla and caramel, this 66-proof spirit offers a perfectly balanced blend, ideal for enjoying as a shot, on the rocks, or in cocktails.

What: The Evolution Festival
When: Sept. 28-29
For more info: Visit EvolutionFestival.com

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