District 1 Brewing Boosts Local Business Visibility

A Unique Opportunity for Local Food Trucks

The Food Truck Fest at Stevens Point’s District 1 Brewing has become a significant event for local businesses looking to expand their reach and build their brand. This initiative was designed to provide food truck operators with an additional platform to generate income and connect with the community.

District 1 Brewing wanted to ensure that food trucks had another chance to showcase their offerings in the area. Chris Gethers, co-owner of District 1, emphasized that the event is not about the brewery itself, but rather about supporting other local businesses. “It’s not about us,” he said. “This is about us reaching out into the community and offering up our space for some other businesses to try and make a go of it.”

The event attracts food trucks from various locations, including nearby cities like Appleton. Vendors have expressed gratitude for the opportunity to earn more revenue through this festival. Kayla Wellbrock, owner of 'Wandering Elixer,' shared her appreciation for the free space provided. “To have a space where we can pop up for free, especially as a small and upcoming business, it means so much,” she said. “For us, a couple hundred bucks means a lot.”

Wellbrock launched 'Wandering Elixer' in 2024, focusing on creating mocktails for individuals who want to enjoy the social experience of drinking without the alcohol. She noted that Wisconsin has a strong drinking culture, and she is grateful for the support from District 1, even though they are a bar. “I was so surprised to see such great feedback from people,” she said. “I think that our zero-proof community is actually really growing here in this area.”

District 1 does not profit from the Food Truck Festivals. Instead, they provide a free venue for food trucks to set up. Typically, events charge vendors for using their space, making this initiative a rare and valuable opportunity. Gethers explained that if any food trucks do well during the festival, he requests a small donation to help cover the costs of the musicians performing at the event. These donations also assist in renting chairs, tables, and garbage bins used during the festival.

The festivals are held at key times throughout the year, including the beginning of May, the middle of summer, and Labor Day weekend. The food trucks operate regardless of the weather and are open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day.

Benefits for the Community and Businesses

The Food Truck Fest offers several benefits for both the local community and the participating businesses. For residents, it provides a chance to explore a variety of food options in a relaxed setting. For food truck owners, it's an opportunity to gain exposure and build a loyal customer base.

Local businesses also benefit from the increased foot traffic during the event. Restaurants and shops near District 1 often see a boost in sales as visitors come to enjoy the festival. This creates a ripple effect that supports the broader local economy.

Moreover, the event fosters a sense of community by bringing people together through food and music. The presence of live music adds to the atmosphere, making the festival a fun and engaging experience for attendees of all ages.

In addition to the financial support, the Food Truck Fest encourages collaboration among local businesses. It serves as a reminder that success can be achieved through mutual support and shared opportunities. By opening their doors to others, District 1 Brewing exemplifies the spirit of community and entrepreneurship.

As the event continues to grow, it sets a positive example for other businesses looking to create similar initiatives. The success of the Food Truck Fest highlights the importance of supporting local enterprises and fostering a vibrant, interconnected community.