Nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, the Corks & Hops event transforms the charming mountain community of Crestline into a celebration of craft beverages, live entertainment, and alpine hospitality. This local tasting event brings together Southern California wineries, craft breweries, artisan food vendors, and music lovers for an afternoon and evening of exploration in the mountain setting.

Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, craft beer enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique mountain getaway, Corks & Hops offers an experience that combines California’s beverage culture with the natural beauty of the San Bernardino National Forest. The event’s shuttle-style format allows attendees to explore multiple tasting locations throughout the historic mountain town, creating an experience that goes beyond a typical tasting event.

What Is Corks & Hops?

Corks & Hops represents one of the locally anticipated annual events in the San Bernardino Mountains, drawing visitors who seek to experience craft beverages in an authentic mountain setting. The festival has built a reputation for showcasing quality over quantity, featuring carefully curated selections from Southern California’s finest wineries and breweries alongside the warm hospitality that defines mountain community culture.

Overview of the Annual Wine & Beer Tasting Festival

Corks & Hops operates as a progressive tasting event held multiple times throughout the summer and fall season. Attendees receive a wristband and commemorative tasting glass at check-in, then can board complimentary shuttle buses that transport them between participating venues throughout Crestline. Each stop features different wineries, breweries, food vendors, and live entertainment, creating a variety of experiences throughout the event.

The format allows guests to explore local mountain businesses while sampling craft beverages in a relaxed atmosphere. As you travel between venues, you’ll experience the mountain scenery and the unique character of Crestline’s business district. This mobile approach distributes crowds across multiple locations while allowing local establishments to showcase their spaces to event attendees.

Participating wineries typically represent various Southern California wine regions, from Temecula Valley to San Bernardino County, offering everything from bold Cabernet Sauvignons to crisp Chardonnays. Craft breweries bring their latest seasonal releases, flagship beers, and experimental brews, providing opportunities to taste styles ranging from light pilsners perfect for mountain afternoons to robust stouts ideal for cool evenings.

Live music performances at select venues create an energetic festival atmosphere, with local and regional bands providing entertainment throughout the day. The combination of quality beverages, mountain views, good food, and live tunes makes Corks & Hops feel less like a formal tasting and more like a community celebration where everyone is welcome.

Where Corks & Hops Takes Place

The event takes place in Crestline, a mountain community in the San Bernardino Mountains sitting at approximately 4,600 feet elevation. The higher altitude provides cooler temperatures and cleaner air compared to the valleys below—making it an appealing setting for outdoor celebrations during the summer months.

Crestline’s small-town character and proximity to Lake Gregory make it an ideal host for this type of event. The community features a mix of local businesses, restaurants, and recreational facilities along Lake Drive and Crest Forest Drive—the main corridors where participating venues are located. Many establishments transform into temporary tasting stations for the event, opening their doors to showcase both their spaces and the featured beverages.

The shuttle route connects various locations throughout Crestline, from the Lake Gregory area to the upper town district. This allows attendees to experience different parts of the community without worrying about navigation or parking. Each venue offers something different—some provide outdoor spaces with mountain views, while others offer indoor settings with local character.

Corks & Hops Dates & Event Details

Planning ahead helps you make the most of your Corks & Hops experience. The event takes place multiple times throughout the summer and fall season, giving you several opportunities to attend throughout the year.

Official 2026 Event Dates

The 2026 Corks & Hops schedule includes four dates:

• June 6, 2026
• August 1, 2026
• September 5, 2026
• October 3, 2026

Each event follows the same format but may feature different participating wineries, breweries, and musical acts. This multi-date approach allows the event organizers to accommodate more guests throughout the season and gives attendees flexibility in choosing a date that works for their schedules. The various dates also mean you can attend multiple times during the season to experience different vendor lineups and seasonal atmospheres.

The summer dates (June and August) offer warm weather ideal for outdoor tastings, while the fall dates (September and October) provide cooler temperatures and the beginning of autumn colors in the mountains. Each season brings its own character to the event.

Event Hours & Tasting Schedule

Corks & Hops runs from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM, providing five hours of tasting, entertainment, and exploration. Check-in is available from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at two locations: Higher Grounds (23776 Lake Drive) or Hearth & Sage General Store (23443 Crest Forest Drive).

The afternoon start time allows attendees to arrive and settle in before the event begins. The schedule encourages a relaxed pace where you can take time to savor each tasting, engage with pourers about their products, enjoy food offerings, and experience the live music at various stages throughout town.

Shuttles run continuously throughout the event hours, making loops from Lake Gregory to the upper town area. The shuttle service continues until 9:00 PM, giving attendees time to make their way back to their vehicles or accommodations after the tasting period ends at 8:00 PM. Frequent shuttle service ensures you can visit your preferred venues without long waits.

Ticket Types and What’s Included

Corks & Hops offers three ticket options for the 2026 season:

Basic Ticket – $49.00

• Ten craft beer/wine tastings
• Souvenir tasting glass
• Live music at four stages
• Shuttle access

Ale You Can Get Ticket – $64.00

• Two full-size pours
• Ten craft beer/wine tastings
• Souvenir tasting glass
• Live music at four stages
• Shuttle access

2026 Season Pass – $150.00

• Access to all four 2026 event dates (June 6, August 1, September 5, October 3)
• Ten craft beer/wine tastings per event
• Souvenir tasting glass
• Live music at four stages (each event)
• Shuttle access all season long

Each ticket includes your commemorative tasting glass, event wristband, event map, and pour station guide upon check-in. The tasting glass serves as both your sampling vessel throughout the event and a keepsake. Food and additional beverages beyond your included tastings are available for purchase from vendors.

Tickets can be purchased online through the official Corks & Hops website. It’s recommended to buy tickets in advance to ensure availability, though specific details about sell-out timing vary by event date.

What to Expect at Corks & Hops

The Corks & Hops experience combines multiple elements that together create an enjoyable mountain event. Understanding what awaits at each venue helps you prepare for an afternoon and evening that balances beverage exploration with entertainment, food, and mountain scenery.

Southern California Wineries & Craft Breweries

The event features selections from Southern California wineries and craft breweries. Participating vendors vary by event date, bringing different options throughout the season. Wineries typically represent various Southern California regions, including Temecula Valley and other local areas, offering a range of varietals from whites to reds.

Wine selections span multiple styles, allowing you to explore different options throughout the event. The lineup may include lighter wines suitable for warm afternoon tastings as well as fuller-bodied options. The participating wineries change throughout the season, so attending different event dates provides exposure to various producers.

Craft breweries bring variety to the beer selection, with options ranging from lighter styles to more robust options. Southern California has a strong craft beer scene, and Corks & Hops features breweries representing various brewing styles. The selection typically includes popular styles like IPAs, lagers, and seasonal offerings.

Representatives at each pour station can discuss their products and answer questions about the beverages. These conversations provide information about the drinks you’re sampling and the producers behind them.

Live Music & Mountain Festival Atmosphere

Live music performances take place at four stages throughout the event, with local and regional bands providing entertainment. The musical lineup varies by event date, covering various genres. These performances create an energetic atmosphere at different venues throughout Crestline.

The event combines outdoor and indoor settings depending on the venue. The mountain environment provides a natural backdrop for the afternoon and evening activities. The casual atmosphere encourages conversation and mingling among attendees who share an interest in craft beverages and mountain experiences.

Local Food Vendors & Artisan Booths

While beverages take center stage, food plays an essential supporting role at Corks & Hops. Local restaurants, food trucks, and specialty vendors set up at various venues throughout the festival, offering menu items designed to complement wine and beer tastings. You’ll find everything from gourmet sliders and artisan flatbreads to barbecue, tacos, and sweet treats.

Many food vendors emphasize locally sourced ingredients and mountain-inspired cuisine. Hearty options like smoked meats, wood-fired pizzas, and comfort foods pair perfectly with the festival’s casual outdoor setting. For lighter fare, look for fresh salads, cheese plates, and charcuterie boards that allow flavors to shine without overwhelming your palate between tastings.

Artisan booths add another dimension to the festival experience. Local crafters, artists, and specialty producers often set up displays selling handmade jewelry, artwork, candles, gourmet food products, and other unique items. These vendors give you the opportunity to take home a piece of mountain culture beyond your tasting glass, supporting local artisans while finding one-of-a-kind gifts or souvenirs.

The combination of food, drink, music, and artisan offerings creates a well-rounded festival that appeals to various interests. Even if wine and beer aren’t your primary focus, the event offers enough entertainment and cultural richness to make your visit worthwhile.

Shuttle Stops & Tasting Locations

The shuttle system connects various locations throughout Crestline, making the multi-venue format accessible. Shuttles make continual loops from Lake Gregory to the upper town area, with service running until 9:00 PM (one hour after tastings end).

Event maps provided at check-in show all pour stations, music stages, and shuttle stops along the route. This allows you to plan which venues you’d like to visit based on your interests. Some attendees prefer visiting locations systematically, while others focus on specific venues or stages.

Shuttle stops are marked at participating locations throughout Crestline. The continuous circulation means you can board when ready to move to the next stop. Festival staff at venues can provide updates on shuttle timing if needed.

Each venue offers different characteristics—some are established businesses that host pour stations during the event, while others are outdoor locations set up specifically for Corks & Hops. The variety of settings provides different experiences as you move through the event.

Planning Your Trip to Corks & Hops

Proper planning transforms a good festival experience into a great one. Understanding logistics, preparing appropriately, and making smart decisions about transportation ensures you can focus on enjoying the event rather than managing unexpected challenges.

Parking, Transportation & Designated Driver Tips

Parking can be found throughout Crestline during the event. The organizers recommend parking along side streets off Lake Drive. Once parked, look for a shuttle stop and make your way to one of the two check-in locations to receive your wristband, tasting glass, and event map.

The shuttle system allows you to leave your vehicle parked and explore various venues throughout the event without needing to drive. This approach enhances safety and allows everyone to fully participate in the tastings without concerns about transportation between locations.

If traveling with a group, designating a driver demonstrates responsibility and allows that person to enjoy the atmosphere without consuming alcohol. Many attendees choose to stay overnight in the mountain area, which eliminates concerns about driving after the event and allows time to explore Crestline and surrounding areas.

Ride-sharing services operate in the mountain region, though availability may vary during events. Planning your transportation in advance helps ensure you have reliable options for getting home safely.

What to Bring for a Comfortable Tasting Experience

Preparing appropriately enhances your comfort throughout the event. Mountain weather varies by season—June and August typically bring warm temperatures in the 70s-80s°F, while September and October offer cooler conditions in the 60s-70s°F. Conditions can change at elevation, so layered clothing allows you to adjust as needed. Comfortable walking shoes are practical since you’ll be exploring venues and boarding shuttles.

Sunscreen and sunglasses protect against UV exposure at higher elevation during summer months. A hat provides additional sun protection during outdoor portions of the event. Venues offer both indoor and outdoor areas at various locations.

Bringing a small backpack or bag helps carry essentials like water bottles, snacks, and personal items. While the festival provides tastings and food is available for purchase, having water on hand helps you stay hydrated between alcoholic beverages—a crucial consideration when drinking at elevation, where dehydration effects are more pronounced.

Your smartphone comes in handy for capturing festival memories, but bringing a portable charger ensures your battery lasts throughout the day. You’ll want to photograph scenic mountain views, document memorable tastings, and possibly coordinate with friends if your group splits up to explore different venues.

Cash is useful for purchasing food from vendors who may not accept cards, tipping service staff, and buying artisan goods from local crafters. While many vendors accept credit cards, having cash backup prevents any payment complications. Small bills make transactions smoother and allow you to tip generously the hardworking folks who make the festival possible.

Where to Stay for Corks & Hops

Securing accommodations near the event can enhance your experience, allowing you to avoid driving home after tastings. The mountain region offers various lodging options to match different preferences and budgets.

Hotels and inns in Crestline provide convenient access to event venues, often within walking distance of shuttle stops or check-in locations. Local establishments understand the event and can provide information about the area.

Vacation rentals offer an alternative, especially for groups or families. Renting a nearby cabin or mountain home provides space, privacy, and amenities like full kitchens. Properties throughout Crestline, Skyforest, and surrounding areas place you within reach of the event while offering mountain accommodation character.

Lake Gregory, located in Crestline, serves as a focal point for much of the area’s lodging. Accommodations near the lake combine event convenience with access to recreational activities like paddleboarding, fishing, and walking paths.

Benefits of Booking Early for Festival Weekends

Event weekends see increased visitation to the mountain communities, making advance accommodation booking advisable. Properties can fill as event dates approach, particularly for desirable locations or larger rentals.

Booking ahead typically provides more options in terms of property types, sizes, and locations. It also allows you to focus on other aspects of trip planning once lodging is secured. For groups, finding properties that accommodate multiple people becomes easier with advance planning.

Things to Do Near Crestline During Corks & Hops Weekend

While Corks & Hops provides afternoon and evening entertainment, extending your stay allows you to explore the mountain region’s natural setting and local attractions. The area surrounding Crestline offers activities that complement your event experience, making a weekend trip worthwhile.

Exploring Lake Gregory

Lake Gregory stands as Crestline’s centerpiece, offering recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages and interests. This man-made lake spans approximately 84 acres and provides a refreshing alpine setting perfect for water activities during warm weather. The lake’s regional park features swimming areas, beaches, fishing spots, and boat rentals that allow you to enjoy the water throughout your visit.

Paddleboarding and kayaking on Lake Gregory provide peaceful ways to experience the mountain environment. The calm waters make these activities accessible even for beginners, and equipment rentals are readily available at the lake. Morning paddles offer particularly serene experiences, with glassy water reflecting surrounding pine forests and the possibility of spotting local wildlife along the shoreline.

Fishing enthusiasts find Lake Gregory well-stocked with trout, bass, catfish, and bluegill. The lake is regularly stocked by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, making it a productive fishery throughout the season. Whether fishing from shore or boat, you’ll enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and mountain views that make the experience memorable regardless of your catch.

The park surrounding the lake includes picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking paths ideal for families. Barbecue facilities allow you to cook lakeside meals, creating perfect opportunities for relaxed gatherings before or after the festival. The combination of natural beauty and developed amenities makes Lake Gregory a destination that appeals to both adventure seekers and those preferring more relaxed recreation.

Hiking Trails & Scenic Mountain Views

The San Bernardino National Forest surrounding Crestline and Running Springs contains numerous hiking trails offering everything from easy nature walks to challenging mountain ascents. These trails showcase the region’s natural diversity, including pine and cedar forests, seasonal wildflowers, rock formations, and panoramic viewpoints.

The Heap’s Peak Arboretum near Running Springs provides an accessible introduction to mountain ecology. This short, interpretive trail winds through various forest zones, with informative signs explaining local flora, fauna, and forest management practices. The gentle terrain makes this trail suitable for all fitness levels, including families with young children and those seeking a leisurely nature experience.

For more adventurous hikers, trails leading into the backcountry offer opportunities to escape crowds and immerse yourself in wilderness. Routes ranging from moderate to strenuous take you through dense forests, across mountain ridges, and to viewpoints overlooking valleys thousands of feet below. Spring and early summer hiking presents lush greenery and possibly lingering snowmelt creating seasonal waterfalls and flowing streams.

The Pacific Crest Trail passes through areas near Crestline and Running Springs, allowing you to walk sections of this legendary long-distance route stretching from Mexico to Canada. Even short walks along the PCT provide connection to something larger—the thousands of thru-hikers who traverse this trail annually and the conservation efforts preserving these mountain environments.

Many trails offer stunning views of the valley below, with clear days providing visibility stretching to the Pacific Ocean. Sunrise and sunset hikes present particularly spectacular lighting conditions, with golden hour illuminating the landscape in ways that make the moderate effort required well worth the reward.

Local Dining & Coffee Shops

The mountain communities around Crestline and Running Springs feature dining options that range from casual cafes to hearty mountain restaurants. These establishments provide opportunities to experience local flavors and hospitality throughout your festival weekend.

Breakfast spots serve mountain-sized portions of classic American fare—pancakes, omelets, biscuits and gravy, and strong coffee to fuel morning adventures. Many of these family-owned restaurants have served the community for decades, maintaining traditions that locals cherish and visitors quickly appreciate. The friendly atmosphere encourages conversations with neighbors and fellow travelers, providing insight into mountain life beyond what typical tourist experiences offer.

Coffee shops throughout the area serve as community gathering places where you can grab expertly crafted espresso drinks, fresh pastries, and light lunch options. These cafes often feature mountain decor, cozy seating areas, and sometimes outdoor patios where you can enjoy your coffee while taking in forest views. They serve as ideal stops before beginning daily activities or places to relax and reflect after hiking or exploring.

Dinner restaurants showcase comfort food elevated by quality ingredients and mountain hospitality. Expect hearty steaks, fresh trout, barbecue, burgers, and pasta dishes designed to satisfy appetites built up through mountain activities. Many establishments feature local artwork, rustic decor, and views that remind you of your alpine setting throughout your meal.

Brewpubs and casual dining spots provide options for continuing the festival spirit into Sunday, with local craft beers and laid-back atmospheres perfect for recapping your Corks & Hops experience with friends. These venues understand the mountain visitor demographic and create welcoming environments where everyone feels comfortable.

FAQs About Corks & Hops 2026

Understanding key details before attending helps you prepare appropriately and ensures your festival experience meets expectations. These frequently asked questions address common concerns about age requirements, ticketing, family attendance, and weather contingencies.

Is Corks & Hops 21+ Only?

Yes, Corks & Hops is strictly a 21-and-over event. All attendees must present valid government-issued identification proving they meet the minimum legal drinking age before receiving their festival credentials and tasting glass. This policy applies to everyone entering festival venues, even those not planning to consume alcohol, with no exceptions made for younger family members or designated drivers.

The age restriction reflects both legal requirements for alcohol-focused events and the festival organizers’ desire to maintain an adult-oriented atmosphere. While the mountain communities of Crestline and Running Springs are generally family-friendly destinations, Corks & Hops specifically caters to adults who can fully participate in wine and beer tastings without concerns about accommodating minors.

Security staff at venue entrances carefully check identification before admitting guests. Acceptable forms of ID include state-issued driver’s licenses, official identification cards, passports, and military IDs. The identification must be current and feature a photograph matching the bearer. Festival organizers take ID verification seriously to protect their liquor licenses and ensure compliance with California alcohol laws.

This adults-only policy allows the festival to maintain its focus on craft beverage education and appreciation. Attendees can engage in mature conversations about wine and beer without modifying their behavior or language for younger audiences. The atmosphere remains sophisticated yet relaxed, appealing to couples, friend groups, and solo travelers who appreciate quality craft beverages in a mountain setting.

Are Tickets Required in Advance?

Advance ticket purchase is recommended for Corks & Hops. Tickets are available for purchase online through the official website at corksnhops.com. The event organizers sell tickets in advance of each date, and buying early ensures you secure your spot.

Purchasing tickets ahead of time allows you to plan your trip with confidence. The website clearly outlines what’s included with each ticket type and processes transactions securely. Season passes offering access to all four 2026 dates provide value for those planning to attend multiple events throughout the year.

While some events may have tickets available closer to the date, purchasing in advance is the most reliable way to ensure entry and avoid disappointment.

Is the Event Family Friendly?

Despite taking place in typically family-friendly mountain communities, Corks & Hops itself is not a family event due to its 21-and-over age restriction. Children and teenagers cannot attend the festival, even if accompanied by parents or guardians. This limitation stems from the event’s focus on alcohol consumption and the desire to maintain an adult atmosphere throughout.

That said, families visiting the mountain region during Corks & Hops weekend can enjoy numerous other activities. While parents attend the festival, older teenagers or children can explore Lake Gregory, visit local shops, hike area trails, or participate in other mountain recreation. Some families choose to arrange childcare or have one parent attend the festival on Saturday while the other spends time with children, then potentially switching roles if both want to experience the event in subsequent years.

The adult-only nature of Corks & Hops doesn’t reflect negatively on the mountain communities themselves, which warmly welcome families year-round. Crestline and Running Springs offer abundant family-friendly activities, attractions, and accommodations that make the area ideal for multigenerational trips during other times of the year or during different events specifically designed for all ages.

Understanding this distinction helps families plan appropriately. If you’re bringing children to the mountains for a weekend getaway, scheduling your visit during a different weekend ensures everyone can participate in available activities together. Alternatively, couples or adult friend groups find Corks & Hops weekend perfect for a grown-up mountain escape focused on craft beverages and sophisticated entertainment.

What Happens if It Rains?

Mountain weather can vary, though the summer and early fall months generally offer favorable conditions in the San Bernardino Mountains. June and August typically provide warm, dry weather, while September and October can bring cooler temperatures with occasional precipitation possible.

Many event venues include covered areas or indoor spaces that allow activities to continue in various weather conditions. The shuttle system continues operating in light rain. Live music performances and tastings can adapt to weather as needed.

Attendees should check weather forecasts before traveling and bring appropriate clothing for mountain conditions. The event operates on a rain-or-shine basis, with tickets being non-refundable. Planning for various weather scenarios ensures you can adapt and enjoy the experience.

Your Mountain Base for Corks & Hops Weekend

For those attending Corks & Hops who prefer vacation rental accommodations, Wild Olive Cabins offers properties near Crestline and Skyforest that serve as a comfortable base for your mountain visit. Located approximately 30 minutes from event check-in locations, our cabins provide the space and amenities of a full vacation rental while keeping you within reasonable distance of the festivities.

Beyond event weekends, Wild Olive Cabins serves visitors exploring the San Bernardino Mountains for various reasons—hiking, lake activities, or simply enjoying the mountain environment. The properties work for different types of mountain getaways, with Corks & Hops being one of several events and attractions in the area throughout the year.

If you’re planning to attend Corks & Hops and prefer the vacation rental experience, consider booking one of our properties for your stay. Early reservation helps secure the cabin that best fits your group size and preferences, particularly during popular weekend events.