A group of dedicated Sapulpa community members were brewing big dreams about what could be accomplished in Sapulpa through reinvestment, beautification and community support. Their idea was to create a new event on Hobson Avenue that could help people envision what downtown Sapulpa could look like and the lifestyle that could emerge. Hobson Hops brought together live music, craft beer and a preview of what was in the works for the dilapidated street. It was the first time residents got a glimpse of the Route 66 Christmas Chute and the transformation coming to Hobson Avenue. What began as a way to showcase the possibilities for the area has grown into an annual celebration of Sapulpa’s progress and the people working to make that progress possible.
The revitalization of Sapulpa’s downtown area has been years in the making. It’s taken a strong vision and buy-in from the community, as well as support from local government. One of the main goals of the first Hobson Hops was to bring this vision to life. Set in an empty parking lot and facing empty buildings, the music from Hobson Hops’ bands echoed against the buildings and filled the street with sound. No one knew what to expect and no one knew if Hobson Hops would take off, but after that night, the community knew Hobson Hops was here to stay.
A newly renovated historical building on Hobson was opened to the public for the first time following its renovation. The community was encouraged to tour the building, which brimmed with historical charm and original features while being equipped for a modern restaurant and communal space. Another building was draped with a banner showcasing what could be developed into housing and park space. At this year’s Hobson Hops, those plans and dreams are realized. The event has become more than a night of music and drinks; it has become a chance for residents to experience firsthand the changes taking place in their downtown.
The grand opening of James Calley Brewing Company was set for the evening of the fourth annual Hobson Hops in 2024. An old machine shop was completely transformed into Sapulpa’s first brewery and a future event hub for the community. What started out as an empty building with a dirt floor opened as a gorgeous taproom and special event space. Hobson Hops has always provided residents with the opportunity to try craft beers from local breweries, but this year was the first taste of beer brewed right here in Sapulpa.
An event that was already wildly popular has taken off even more with the brewery to complement it. This year, Hobson Hops will be many residents’ first chance to see new townhomes for rent on Hobson, a new space for artists and more buildings that have been restored and brought back more beautiful than before. The event offers visitors an opportunity to walk the area, discover what has changed and imagine what is still to come. Hobson Hops happens to be one of the events that brings people from all over to witness what vision and determination can do for a community. Each year’s Hobson Hops brings new growth, bigger acts and a honing of a favorite tradition.
The musical lineup for Hobson Hops this year brings out-of-state talent to Sapulpa. The headliner, the Solis Brothers, hail from Castroville, Texas. They are a high-energy country-rock band that brings an authentic and gritty Red Dirt sound to the stage. Arkansas native and Texas transplant Seth Van Dover draws inspiration from gritty and raw storytelling artists. Hobson Hops will be kicked off by local artists Bria and Joey in their newest musical endeavor, Honey Hush. With an original album set to come out in 2026, the duo finds inspiration in their Tulsa roots.
Together, the music, local businesses, new developments and community atmosphere make Hobson Hops a reflection of Sapulpa’s continued growth. What was once an empty stretch of downtown has become a place where residents and visitors can gather, celebrate and see the future taking shape. Each year, the event offers another reminder that revitalization is not simply about restoring buildings; it is about creating reasons for people to return, connect and invest in their community.