Let’s celebrate Maine’s brewing industry and have a great time doing it!

According to the Brewers Association, our homegrown breweries contribute more than $260 million to our state economy. So, whether to meet and congratulate them on their contributions to the state’s economy - or to taste their offerings, listen to the music, wander the Village Green or simply to have some fun on a summer Saturday join us for this uniquely Maine event, a special craft beer tasting fundraiser to support the non-profit Boothbay Railway Village.

Seven Maine breweries are showcased this year include some past favorites and a few new friends: Boothbay Craft Brewing of Boothbay Harbor; Bath Brewing Company of Bath; Flight Deck Brewing of Brunswick; Footbridge Brewery of Boothbay Harbor; Funky Bow Brewing Company of Lyman; Nonesuch River Brewing Company of Scarborough; and Sheepscot Valley Brewing of Whitefield.

Master brewers will answer burning questions from beer hobbyists and home brewers, and attendees will vote for the People’s Choice Award for the most creative display, and buy merchandise like T-shirts, hats and glassware from favorite brewers.

And to showcase that Maine is not only a national brewery haven, hops farmer Alna Hopyard, from Alna, and the Maine Malt House, of Mapleton, are also attending to share the secrets of flavoring techniques and beer ingredients. The Brew Bus crew will be there to promote their beer fest bus trips. Plus, as many past attendees well know, the oldest and longest running auto show in Maine is holding its two-day annual event on at the Village, that same weekend, the 55th annual Antique Auto Days. Rails, Tails & Ales guests will have up-close viewing of approximately one hundred classic, vintage, antique, hot rods, muscle cars and much more all parked on the Village Green at the Boothbay Railway Village. Music will be provided by local favorite, The Murky Water Band. There will be food, a special visit by the ubiquitous Mr. Peanut, and popcorn, and ice cream. Rails, Tails & Ales wristband tickets and passports enable guests to enjoy ten 4-ounce beer tastings from noon to 4 p.m.

Admission includes the Antique Auto Days, a separate event on the grounds July 20 and 21, an opportunity to view over one hundred visiting classic, vintage, antique, hot rods, muscle cars and more all parked on the Village Green. Plus, visitors are welcome to tour the Village’s Auto Museum, where another 50-plus vintage autos are permanently showcased. Train rides are included in RTA ticket price.

Rails, Tails and Ales is $35 per person. Must be 21 years old. IDs checked. For tickets online, go to www.eventbrite.com/rails-tails-ales-tickets |

Tickets will be sold at Freeport Station, BRV on the day of the event.