Schlafly Beer’s Art Outside Festival Returns to Maplewood
The Art Outside Festival is back at Schlafly Bottleworks in Maplewood, and this year's edition promises to be the most dynamic yet. From September 6 to 8, St. Louis' long-standing brewery, Schlafly Beer, will transform its Bottleworks location into a celebration of local art, music, and, of course, craft beer. This free, family-friendly festival is all about raising awareness of the incredible artistic talent in the community, with more than 60 local artists showcasing their unique creations.
This year's Art Outside Festival goes beyond the traditional art fair experience, introducing new interactive elements that engage festival-goers in exciting ways. Attendees will be able to watch live painting and glassblowing demonstrations and even create their own art at various stations offering activities such as tie-dye, spray painting t-shirts, and tarot card readings. For those who enjoy a bit of mysticism with their art, henna artist Megan Naik of Rani Henna STL and tarot card reader Anna Felixidocious will be on hand to add a personal touch to the experience.
David Schlafly, CEO of Schlafly Beer, is enthusiastic about the festival's evolution. “We started Art Outside to be an alternative art fair, which highlighted local artists’ incredible talents and allowed attendees to be able to purchase their work at affordable prices,” he explains. “We wanted to lean into that alternative experience more this year with interactive art experiences in a family-friendly environment. There’s more to explore than ever at Art Outside this year.”
One of the most exciting additions to this year's festival is the collaboration with Artists First, a local non-profit that empowers artists with disabilities. Together, they have created a special edition 16-ounce can of Schlafly's Kӧlsch, dubbed the Schlafly AF beer. The can design is crafted by Artists First members, with a portion of the sales going back to support the organization. It's a beautiful example of how the festival aims to uplift and celebrate all artists in the community.
The festivities kick off on Friday, September 6, with live music setting the tone for the weekend. Attendees can enjoy performances by local bands like the Rocky Mantia Trio and Grooveliner, creating an atmosphere that’s as vibrant and diverse as the artwork on display. Throughout the weekend, festival-goers can look forward to an eclectic lineup of musical acts, from jazz trios to blues ensembles, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Art Outside’s music lineup is as varied as its visual art. On Friday, the Rocky Mantia Trio and Grooveliner will entertain crowds, followed by a full day of performances on Saturday featuring acts such as Ceci Rayburn Trio, Scroggins and Farrar, and the Rich McDonough and the Rhythm Renegades. Sunday brings its own unique flair with sets from Lucky Dan and Naked Mike, the Joe Park Trio, and Dawn Weber & The Boogaloo Crew, ensuring the festival ends on a high note.
The festival will feature plenty of Schlafly’s seasonal and year-round brews, including the special Schlafly AF can, alongside a selection of festival food available both outdoors and from the limited Bottleworks restaurant menu for table service. Schlafly has also arranged for a large tent to provide ample shade and coverage, ensuring that rain or shine, the community can enjoy the festival to the fullest.
Whether you're a long-time art lover or just looking for a fun weekend activity, the Art Outside Festival offers a little something for everyone. This event not only spotlights the thriving artistic community within a 125-mile radius of Schlafly Bottleworks but also showcases the spirit of Maplewood—a neighborhood that Schlafly proudly calls home.
To stay updated on the festival and all of its attractions, follow Schlafly Beer on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. For more details about Art Outside, including a full schedule of events and activities, visit Schlafly’s website.
Photos courtesy of Schlafly Beer.