As Rhubarb Fest kicks off in Aledo, a fun, flavorful, and hyper-local collaboration is catching the attention of festivalgoers and beer lovers alike: Strawberry Rhubarbara, a new beer brewed by Bent River and available exclusively at Mercer Market.
On WRMJ’s Focus, we welcomed local artist Myah Balmer and Mercer Market’s Steve McLaren to talk about the new release—and the eye-catching character that graces the beer can.
Myah, a familiar name in the local arts scene, was brought into the project by fellow artist Hannah Baker. “Steve contacted Hannah about doing the artwork,” Myah said. “She didn’t have time but passed it along to me. I met with a few of my artist collective friends and started spitballing ideas.”
The result? A character named Strawberry Rhubarbara—a steampunk, punky, fun-loving beer mascot with a strawberry for a face and rhubarb leaves for hair.
“I described what I wanted as a cross between G.I. Jane and Strawberry Shortcake,” Steve joked, “and she nailed it.” Even the team at Bent River Brewing in Rock Island gave a thumbs up. “Cameron from Bent River said the employees love it,” Steve added.
The inspiration for Strawberry Rhubarbara came straight from Myah’s childhood. “I grew up loving Punky Brewster, Strawberry Shortcake, and Carmen Sandiego,” she said. “So I wanted this steampunk festival girl vibe. She kind of created herself while we brainstormed.”
The beer itself is just as bold. “It tastes like Rhubarb Fest in a cup,” Myah said. Steve agreed, describing it as “a lighter beer with fruity strawberry-rhubarb flavor.”
The limited-edition beer is being sold only at Mercer Market, alongside other Rhubarb Fest favorites like pies, wine, and even gin. “We’ve got a 50K display near our bakery section,” Steve said. “It’s festive and fun, just like the festival.”
For those wondering—Strawberry Rhubarbara will not be available at the festival grounds, so a stop at Mercer Market is a must for collectors and craft beer fans. “It’s the unofficial official beer of the festival,” Steve joked.
Myah summed it up with a smile: “She’s just a festival-loving fun girl who loves beer.”
Strawberry Rhubarbara is available now at Mercer Market—while supplies last.