This April, we are releasing a limited collaboration kombucha in partnership with REI Co-op to support the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC). The delicious new flavor is brewed with blackberries and mint, both of which can be found in areas near the Trail.
We are members of the ATC and we view the trail as a special place for our community, our team, and our customers – a symbolic path of wonderment and adventure that deserves conserving. During the spring and summer seasons, our taproom is regularly visited by Appalachian Trail thru-hikers, so we wanted to create something that toasts their journey and protects the trail that they’re trekking. We also celebrate thru-hikers by offering them a free cup of kombucha.
The limited-edition kombucha will debut at REI’s Flip Flop Festival Kickoff Party at their Washington, D.C. flagship store on April 12. Be the first to try this new flavor and help to name it. Participants will be able to submit a name suggestion with a growler fill! We will be selling the kombucha in refillable glass growlers and participants will be able to submit a name suggestion with a purchase. All proceeds will go to the ATC to help protect the vast natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Appalachian Trail. Plus, in celebration of Earth Month, customers will receive $1 off their growler fill if they walk, bike or use public transportation to the party. REI’s event serves as a pre-party to the ATC’s fifth annual Flip Flop Festival, which takes place April 27 to 28 in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia.
In addition to supporting the ATC and enjoying the first taste of this special brew, partygoers can enjoy free bites from Chaia Tacos, Pluma, Patagonia Provisions, music from a local Bluegrass band, trip and gear experts from ATC and REI, games, and more! Register online here.
Beyond maintaining the Appalachian Trail footpath, the ATC is actively working to ensure the lands surrounding the trail are also preserved and protected. These areas are important not only to the world-class hiking experience the Appalachian Trail provides, but also the wildlife, communities, and environments that rely on the Appalachian Mountains' ecosystems. REI has invested over $400,000 in the ATC since 2010. Funds have supported repairing sections of trail through volunteer workdays, volunteer trainings, the Trail Ambassadors program, and promoting trail safety through the ATC’s Ridgerunners program.
Can’t make the party? Come visit us at the following events this month:
· April 16: Our co-founder, Ethan Zuckerman, will be teaching a “How To Brew Your Own Kombucha” at REI in Rockville, Maryland. Get tickets here.
· April 27-29: We will be filling growlers at the ATC’s Flip Flop Festival, with proceeds benefiting the ATC!