There’s nothing like a beer garden atmosphere on a summer-like night in October to bring the events industry community together. Overcast skies cleared just in time for networking during our NACE Oktoberfest Happy Hour at Streetlight Kitchen & Bar, an oasis just off the new Holiday Inn & Suites at Drexelbrook Special Event Center in Delaware County. The event marked our group’s second in-person meeting since March 2020.
Photo by Dawn Mitchell
Members and guests were met with a warm ambiance; white cozy lounges and the soft glow of wood grain fire pit tables that stretched the length of the 1500 square foot patio. Live seasonal flower walls set against a stacked stone framed the lush backdrop of the Darby Creek.
Photos by Mike Morby Photography
Guests were also met with air hugs and safety protocols reflecting all CDC and state health department guidelines. “I knew from previous visits to the host location, that all the safety protocols were in place and have been for several months,” said Lou Marrocco, CMP, president, Brandywine Events. “It was to be outside on their patio area and the organization made it a point to let us know that each of us were going to feel safe,” he said.
Photo by Dawn Mitchell
Follow the six-foot social distance floor stickers to the built-in outdoor bar with 10 rotating draft selections of hyper local craft beer. This particular evening included a tap takeover of the latest full-flavored selection from Downingtown’s Victory Brewing Company, a corporate event partner. Large screen TVs dotted the horizon and live rifts of traditional German, rock, reggae, smooth jazz and soul notes by CTO Music Artists complemented the atmosphere with two band members dressed in traditional German lederhosen.
Photo by Dawn Mitchell
Inside the 3900 square foot contemporary indoor space, Streetlight staff served each guest behind a protective plexiglass shield an array of made-from-scratch New American and Wood Fired Cuisine curated by Chef Andrew Guarini. Using the freshest local ingredients, the menu included bratwurst and sauerkraut; Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Pennsylvanian Maple Syrup, aged balsamic glaze, chopped bacon, in addition to Wood Fired Pizza, Wood Fired Wings. Topping the evening off –trays of individual mini housemade layered desserts.
Photo by Mike Morby Photography
"The Team at Streetlight Bar and Grill at Drexelbrook knocked it out of the park for our Octoberfest meeting of NACE,” said Tim Sudall, NACE Philadelphia/S.Jersey/Delaware Board President. “The food, services, and atmosphere were outstanding. Great Job to Kevin and Domenick and your team for a perfect evening," Sudall said.