At the April 4th meeting of the Katy Rotary Club, held at the Club at Falcon Point, 24503 Falcon Point Drive, Katy, event chairman David Loesch reported a record weekend at the 2024 Wild West Brewfest.

Through the event, the Rotary Club of Katy was able to raise over $135,000, Loesch announced, not including a total of $110,000 which is held in reserve for future events. The silent auction alone raised over $20,000.00, he said.

The event, held March 21-23 at Typhoon Texas, 555 Katy Fort Bend Road in Katy, was able to hit the record number despite a significant increase in expenses, he said, which included rising costs for advertising, security, tents/tables/chairs, generators, bands, beer, and rental of the facility at Typhoon Texas.

The 2024 event only adds to the success the craft beer festival’s success in fundraising.

“In 2022, we crossed over $1.20 million in proceeds from all previous WWBF events, and our goal is to hit the $2 million mark by 2026 -- we currently sit at $1.35 million,“ said Loesch. “Every dollar of proceeds is given back to the local community, and we are grateful that this year’s 11th event was very successful yet again.”

Over 7500 patrons attended the three-day festival to enjoy 75 brewers and over 612 beers, as well as ten different wineries.

”We would also like to recognize our 2024 WWBF winners again,” said Loesch. “Our top restaurant winner was American Federal Grill, and Vallensons’ took home the big trophy this year for best beer.”

“A special thank you goes out to the 371 volunteers whose hard work and dedication ensured smooth operations and a memorable experience for all attendees,” Loesch said in a subsequent press release. “We also extend our gratitude to the City of Katy and all the patrons, brewers, food trucks, and restaurants that contributed to the success of this event. Your support is invaluable, and we look forward to continuing this tradition of excellence.”

Funds raised by the club are distributed to nonprofit organizations in the Katy area; Loesch showed a slide listing over 40 local beneficiaries who have received grants from the club.

The next Wild West Brewfest will take place March 20-22, 2025, Loesch said.