Hops on the Rock

Sterling’s original Craft Beer Festival held annually on the 2nd Saturday of October

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2023

VIP Admission Opens at 2:00 PM

General Admission Opens at 3:00 PM

Event Closes at 6:00 PM

Hops on the Rock is held annually on the 2nd Saturday of October from 3:00 to 6:00 PM at the Sterling Marketplace, 111 W. 2nd Street, in downtown Sterling, adjacent to the Twin City Farmers Market. A private VIP session is open from 2:00-3:00 PM.

Parking is available in the municipal lot surrounding the Sauk Valley Area Chamber and Twin City Farmers Market, and in the County Market parking lot on the north side of West 3rd Street. Walk, bike or drive, we encourage responsible alcohol consumption. Designated drivers are encouraged. There is a DD ticket option available on the ticketing page, and a designated DD pickup/drop off area set aside near the event entrance, for DDs not attending the event.

This is a 21 and older event only. Every person walking through the gate much be 21 years of age or older on the date of the event, and must present a valid photo ID to gain admittance. Wristbands will be given upon entry.

Sorry, no pets. While we know of few dogs who have stolen a sip of beer or two, we’re keeping this festival to the humans.

This is a rain or shine event so plan accordingly!

There will be food vendors onsite. No outside food or beverage will be permitted.

General Admission Tickets will be available at the gate, but we recommend you buy tickets early to avoid waiting in line. VIP tickets will only be available in advance.

Package options:

VIP Tickets – $50

100 Available

Early admission at 2:00 PM for VIP Hour
Limited edition tasting glass & t-shirt
20 sampling tickets
Event Program
Other swag!

**VIP Tickets are available in Advance only and are NOT available at the gate**

General Admission Tickets – $30 in advance; $35 at the door

Admission to the festival from 3-6 PM
Branded tasting glass
12 sampling tickets
Event program

Designated Driver Tickets – $10

DD tickets will be available for purchase during General Admission ticket sales. DD ticket sales close once the festival has sold out. Designated driver ticket holders do not receive a tasting glass or drink tickets.

**DDs must be 21+ and preset a valid ID to enter. All DDs must wear a red event wristband and will not receive drink tickets or tasting cups. Any persons witnessed to be in violation while wearing this wristband will be escorted off the event premises immediately.

Additional Sampling Tickets – 2/$1

Additional sampling tickets will be available onsite during the event only.

For each 2 oz. sample poured, a ticket must be collected. This is a regulatory measure to keep us in compliance with current Illinois liquor laws.

All tickets are non-refundable. 21 and Older. ID required for Entrance.

Live Music

Onsite Food Vendors

For additional information or questions, please contact us, or call 815.626.8610

Thank you to our 2023 Sponsors!

Candlelight Group: Candlelight Inn, Palmyra Pub & Eatery, Brink’s, McCormick Event Center, Brandywine Banquet & Event Center, Corner Tap & Barnicopia