PREVIEW: Dig IN

We’re less than two weeks away from the third annual Dig IN, and we’ve been doing our research to find out what to sample and who to meet. We dug in deep last year, zeroed in on the don’t-miss dishes, and got the lay of the land. Here is what to expect from this year’s Indiana-centric food, wine, and beer event at White River State Park Celebration Plaza, taking place on Sunday, August 26.

Regarding adult beverages, Three Floyds from Munster will be a new addition to the Indiana brewers this year, along with nine other breweries. If the two-ounce tastings aren’t enough, make sure you have enough cash for a grown-up pour ($5 for a 16-ounce cup). Dig IN’s co-founder, Neal Brown, tells us to also consider the seven Indiana wineries. Brown says, “With Jeanette Merritt leading the Indiana Wine Grape Council, I expect an interesting and exciting future for these wineries, and we should be paying more attention to them.” According to its Facebook page, New Albany’s River City Winery just won Winery of the Year from the Indy International Wine Competition for their 2011 Vignoles. We’ll be standing in line to check it out.

With all this daytime drinking in the sun, make sure to hydrate. Last year, bottled water seemed difficult to come by. Dig IN director Eric Freeman tells us that this year free bottled water will be available at the Indiana Family of Farmers tent and the three music tents.

When it comes to the food, take a sec and map out your favorite spots before you hop from station to station. There are 33 chefs participating this year, and many of the portions are on the filling side. It’s all about pacing. The event organizers have also added four food trucks this year. Head to the bridge and see what Duos, Scratchtruck, Spice Box, and Chef JJ’s Big Green Bistro are dishing out.

And unless you are an octopus, be sure to travel light. Ladies, wear an across the body purse or bag—so your hands are freed up to hold a glass, plate, and the event program.