SPECIAL EVENT | Hops Picking Party 

In the mid-19th century, when it was discovered that hops balanced the flavor of beer and kept it fresh longer, it became New York State's main cash crop. Harvest time was pleasant time for pickers, singing songs as they picked by hand. On September 1, the Genesee Country Museum will open their fields for visitors to pick hops as well as take part in the celebrations.

See how hops contributed to the brewing process in the only operational 19th-century style brewery in the US; try samples of beer bread, made with yeast foam, and craft beers ranging in hoppiness. There will be a beer-centric menu at the Hosmer Inn and as well as barrel roll competition, hops tea, hops potpourri, and pillow making.

The Hops Picking Party takes place at theGenesee Country Museum, 1410 Flint Hill Road, Mumford. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. $14.50-$17.50. Call 538-6822 or visit gcv.org for more information.