Inspired by the red-eyed swamp monster of Cajun folklore, the Rougarou, the “Red Eyed Wit” is a Belgian white that will be infused with fall spices like cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg, clove and allspice, said Mudbug Brewery brewmaster and co-owner Leith Adams. The beer may have a slight citrusy taste as well.

“Since we will still have fairly sweltering days by mid-to-late October, we’re taking that fall aspect but with a lighter beer,” Adams said. “A Belgian white includes coriander and orange peel, but we’re adding other spices.”

The idea was to create a light, approachable and refreshing beer that would appeal to all types of beer drinkers, he added. Stronger, heavier beers like porters and stouts are typically consumed during the colder months.

“It’ll be a good seasonal beer getting you away from the lighter pilsners and pale ales of summer and transitioning into fall and winter time, without being too heavy on the alcohol,” Adams said. Red Eyed Wit is also ideal for other fall festivals, including Best of the Bayou and Bayou Beer Fest.

Adams started throwing around the idea of a festival beer with Wetlands Discovery Center Executive Director Jonathan Foret about a month ago. All money raised during the Rougarou Festival will go towards the center, Foret said.

“We’ve been very fortunate to have great partnerships with businesses in our area. I can’t tell you how excited we are to have Mudbug join our team this year! They offer great tasting beers with a local touch, and that’s important to our festival,” he added.

The festival aims to promote the culture of Cajun folklore in Terrebonne Parish through live music, cultural activities, children’s activities and local cuisine. The two-day festival will feature a costume contest, the Rougarou Run and the Krewe Ga Rou Parade. It will run from 10 a.m. through 10 p.m. on Oct. 24 and 9 a.m. through 5 p.m. on Oct. 25. Mudbug Brewery will have their own booth.

Themed beer at Rougarou Fest

Maki Somosot, HoumaToday.com