Regatta 2011

Biteclub is sending you a hand-engraved invitation to be a part of the Handcar Regatta Homestead Society on Sunday, September 25.

If you’ve somehow missed the last three years of this event, let me bring you up to speed on this multi-faceted spectacle that’s become the coolest ticket in town and is slated to attract more than 8,000 folks downtown next week.  Think Jules Verne meets Mad Max meets Dr.Kellogg and you’re starting to get the idea. This exposition of mechanical wonders features wondrous hand-built contraptions racing on the rails; performers (and participants) in bustles, bustiers and bowlers; wondrous art and science arcades; delicious food and drink; buskers and other intrepid musicians.

New this year, is a vibrant display of homesteading featuring everything from butchering demonstrations to fermenting tips and tricks, a kombucha bar, beer and cheese making, a spice bazaar, coffee-roasting, pie-making, apple pressing, preserves and a live animal or two.

As ringleader of this cooperative culinary society, BiteClub’s aim is to inform, delight and astound the minds and souls of participants. Featured Sonoma County homesteaders include intrepid fermenter Lou Preston from Preston Winery, Courtway Catering (aka The Pie Hole); Savory Spice; The Beverage People, Sheana Davis, Medlock Ames, Revive Kombucha, Merrilee Olson, Gleason Ranch and many others.

Oh, and of course there will be all manner of other incredible oddities and events — the handcar races, contraptions galore, ladies and gents in all their finery, beer, wine, steampunk styles and food, glorious food. But you knew all that.

So mark your calendar, and we’ll see you at Regatta. Sept. 25, 11am to 6pm in Santa Rosa’s Railroad Square. Tickets $8 online until Sept. 24, $10 day of event. VIP tickets $100.