'Coney Island On Tap' Founder on Why He Loves Craft Beer

This past weekend, the Coney Island On Tap craft beer festival kicked off at MCU Park in Brooklyn, New York, home of the Brooklyn Cyclones. The event featured more than 100 releases from more than 60 of America’s best craft breweries and a great time was had by all.

Not to fear if you missed the event in Coney Island though, because we've got an event coming right here to the Jersey Shore!

On August 7, from 7 to 10 p.m., Townsquare will bring you Seaside on Tap at the Municipal Parking Lot in Seaside Park! Tickets can be purchased by clicking here!

We spoke with the Coney Island event's founder, A.J. Bodden, to get an idea of what to expect and why he's so passionate about craft beers:

Why a craft beer festival?

A.J. Bodden (Photo: Kevin Demassio)

What’s the one thing you want people to take away from the event?

Clearly my goal is for people to come away with a great all-around experience and to return next year with a friend. However, to be more specific, it is always my pledge to attendees that they will have the opportunity to try new beers. Regardless of whether you're a beer expert or not, there will be something there that you have never had before.

Is this for the specialized craft beer set, or will this event appeal to the novice beer drinker?

On Tap has been designed to appeal to all levels of beer drinkers, from your craft beer connoisseurs to the novice just looking for something new to try. We strive to be something for everyone.

What’s so special about craft beer?

Craft beer, aka microbrew, is handcrafted in small batches by people who are passionate about their product. There is an enormous amount of time, attention and passion given to the production of these beers, and it really shows in the quality of the product. It is definitely more about quality than quantity when it comes to enjoying craft beer.

How is the event structured? Who's participating?

Upon entrance to the event, you’ll be given a souvenir sampling glass and sent on your way to enjoy the beer, food, music and vendors, in the amazing setting of a professional ballpark on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean! It will be a great day for all.

You seem to be very passionate about craft beer. What got you into the world of craft beer, and more importantly, hosting craft beer festivals?

I was working in the event space when a friend of mine who owns Peak Organic Brewing out of Portland, Maine, suggested I consider combining my passion for beer and my ability to produce great events. Out of that, my first beer festival was born. That was in 2010, and since then I have produced over 50 festivals in over a dozen states.

What is your favorite style of beer?

IPA.

Anything else you want to add about the event?

I want people to know that we design our events with the attendees’ best interest in mind. We are people passionate about craft beer, who enjoy a fun and unique festival atmosphere. That is what we are creating in Coney Island, and we invite you to join us for some amazing beer on July 12.

Below are some of the many breweries participating: