San Gabriel plans 10th anniversary Dumpling and Beer Festival with new event coordinator

The San Gabriel City Council has announced exciting plans for the upcoming Dumpling and Beer Festival, marking its tenth anniversary in 2025. During the recent council meeting, Economic Development Manager Karen Coe presented a recap of last year's festival and outlined new initiatives aimed at enhancing the event's success.

The Dumpling and Beer Festival, which began in 2015, has become a staple in the community, attracting between 5,000 to 7,000 attendees each year. The festival celebrates the culinary diversity of San Gabriel and features a variety of food vendors, live entertainment, and a beer garden for guests aged 21 and over. Last year's event saw participation from five breweries and 21 food vendors, despite challenges such as brewery closures and scheduling conflicts.

To accommodate the growing crowds, the festival's beer garden was expanded, and marketing materials were refreshed to reflect a cohesive branding strategy. The city also partnered with La Casa de San Gabriel Community Center to streamline the process of securing necessary permits.

Looking ahead, the city is excited to unveil a complete rebranding for the festival, incorporating vibrant colors and new design elements that celebrate both dumplings and beer, as well as the unique character of San Gabriel. This year will also introduce event-branded merchandise and a community art contest in collaboration with a local nonprofit, encouraging youth participation.

In response to the festival's increasing complexity, the city is exploring the option of hiring a professional event operator to assist with logistics and coordination. Proposals received for this service indicate a growing demand for support, with costs exceeding the current event budget. The city plans to reassess its funding strategies to ensure the festival continues to thrive.

The council's discussions highlighted the importance of community engagement and collaboration, with local organizations playing a vital role in the festival's success. As the Dumpling and Beer Festival approaches its milestone anniversary, the city is committed to enhancing the experience for attendees while celebrating the rich cultural tapestry of San Gabriel.