World-class acts, top notch beer, and philanthropic fun – get ready because New Belgium Brewing’s “Tour de Fat” is celebrating the brewery’s first year in Asheville on May 20th.
This year’s tour is the biggest and boldest yet, traveling to 33 cities.
Leading up to the big day, some cities, including Asheville, will host a Battle of the Bands competition to play on the Tour de Fat stage. On Saturday, May 6th two local bands, Carolina Wray and Ian Ridenhour,will compete against each other for this hometown honor.
“The Battle of the Bands is a new element we’re looking forward to,” said New Belgium Tour de Fat Brand Manager, Sam Sawyer. “In Asheville, we’ll have two bands represent a different non-profit,Asheville on Bikes and Mountain True. The crowd will then vote with their dollars for the non-profit that represents their favorite band. The one with the most money at the end gets to play at Tour de Fat!”
Another new element for the 2017 season is a top headline act in each city. In Asheville, Third Eye Blind will wow the crowd. The band is celebrating its 20th anniversary of their debut album this summer with its Summer Gods Tour. However, before that kicks off the alternative rock band will play at Tour de Fat in Asheville.
In addition to live music, Tour de Fat’s mayhem will include an ensemble cast of artists, performers, vaudeville acts, magicians and comedians. Tour de Fat revelers are encouraged to wear costumes and everyone 21 and older will be able to enjoy some of the American craft beer icon’s year-round line-up including New Belgium’s flagship beer, Fat Tire, Voodoo Ranger 8 Hop pale ale, bohemian style Pilsenerand Citradelic tangerine IPA.
Since 2000, Tour de Fat has raised close to $5 million for non-profit partners and hopes to generate more than $600,000 in support of local causes this year. Proceeds from the Asheville stop will benefit Asheville on Bikes, an organization focused on cultivating the culture of urban and commuter cycling through advocacy and celebration.
“Asheville on Bikes is excited to partner with New Belgium Brewing for Tour de Fat,” said Mike Sule, Director of Asheville on Bikes. “I’ve attended a few Tour de Fats in other cities, and I can tell you this is an event not to be missed. New Belgium delivers on the music line up, the carnival antics, and the beer. AoB is ready to celebrate with New Belgium on Saturday, May 20th!”