Kona Brewing Company Sponsors The Big Float After-Party in Portland, OR

    KAILUA-KONA, HI, July 27, 2014 /24-7PressRelease/ -- During one of the biggest weeks for craft beer in Portland, Kona Brewing will be bringing some of its Liquid Aloha to the The Big Float, an annual event that invites people to float down the Willamette River as part of an effort to raise awareness of this important natural resource. Now in its fourth year, The Big Float will take place on Sunday, July 27, during the 2014 Oregon Brewers Festival.

The Big Float's main highlight features an armada of people floating in tubes, rafts, air mattresses, kayaks and other human-powered water vessels down the Willamette River on Sunday afternoon. Following the event, those 21 and older are invited to join Kona at The Big Float's after-party where Kona's latest release, Castaway IPA, will be served alongside longtime favorites Longboard Island Lager and Big Wave Golden Ale. Kona's Castaway IPA will also be served at the OBF, marking the first time that Castaway IPA is available at both events. The beer debuted on the mainland less than four months ago, but has been a long-time island favorite for 14 years.

"Kona Brewing has sponsored The Big Float since its inception," said Aaron Marion, Kona Brewing brand manager. "The event's focus on fostering a stronger connection between people and our natural resources directly aligns with Kona's commitment to sustainability and community. Kona supports numerous clean water causes and beach cleanups in Hawaii and beyond, and we are thrilled to be part of this important initiative here in Portland."

The Big Float is a celebration of Portland and the Willamette River, including the recreation the river offers as well as the restoration it has undergone in recent years. Funds raised go to supportWillamette Riverkeeper for the river's protection and improvement.

While all ages are welcome to float, and kids under age 14 must wear a lifejacket, only those 21 and up will be allowed in the beer garden of the Summer Beach Party. Floaters can enter the party as part of their registration to The Big Float with a TBF wristband. For those who wish to stay in the water there will also be a marked-off swimming area. Non-floaters are also welcome to join the fun for a $9 admission at the door. As well as Kona brews, the after-party features two live bands on a barge, food carts, and free chair massages. There will also be a separate area where children can enjoy two bounce houses and art activities coordinated by P:ear and Recycled Rain Project.

About Kona Brewing:
Kona Brewing Company was started in the spring of 1994 by father and son team Cameron Healy and Spoon Khalsa, who had a dream to create fresh, local island brews made with spirit, passion and quality. It is Hawaii's first and largest craft brewery and is best known for flagship beers Longboard Island Lager and Big Wave Golden Ale. The Hawaii-born and Hawaii-based craft brewery prides itself on brewing the freshest beer of exceptional quality, closest to market. This helps to minimize its carbon footprint by reducing shipping of raw materials, finished beer and wasteful packaging materials. The brewery is headquartered where it began, in Kailua-Kona on Hawaii's Big Island. For more information call 808-334-BREW or www.KonaBrewingCo.com.

# # #