Beer Festival

DENVER (February 2, 2026) — Get ready to raise a glass! The Colorado Brewers Guild (CBG) is bringing back the state’s favorite craft beer tradition: Colorado Pint Day returns on Wednesday, April 29, 2026 — and this year it’s celebrating two massive birthdays: Colorado’s 150th and the United States’ 250th!

Every spring, beer lovers across the Centennial State line up at their favorite local breweries to snag one of the most coveted collectibles in Colorado craft beer: the limited-edition Colorado Pint Day glass. It’s not just a pint glass — it’s a keepsake, a conversation starter, and a tasty way to support the independent breweries that make Colorado the State of Craft Beer.
Here’s the best part: for every glass sold, $1 goes straight to the Colorado Brewers Guild to help advocate for, educate about, and champion the state’s 400+ independent craft breweries.

This year’s glass design is pure fun — and it’s winning hearts already. The 2026 Pint Day Artist of the Year is Denver-based doodle master Joe Palec, whose wild, prehistoric party scene features hopping dinosaurs crashing a classic Rocky Mountain bash. Think Jurassic vibes meets hoppy Colorado flair — campy, colorful, and 100% Colorado.

“Winning this contest is a total dream — it’s the perfect mash-up of my two favorite things: art and beer!” said Palec. “I can’t wait to see people sipping from a glass I designed. That moment when someone spots all the little hidden details? That’s the good stuff.”

A Milwaukee native (aka Brew City royalty) who’s been rocking the Denver art scene for 15 years, Palec’s “extreme doodles” have popped up on murals, packaging, apparel, immersive galleries, and more. Friends at Renegade Brewing nudged him to enter the CBG’s annual art competition — and thank goodness they did.
“I wanted this glass to feel like the back of a cereal box — something you keep staring at while you’re belly-up to the bar, finding new dinosaurs and details every time,” Palec explained. “It’s meant to look awesome and make you smile.”
Full artist statement and more design details are live now at coloradobeer.org/colorado-pint-day.

Mark your calendars:

When: Wednesday, April 29, 2026
What: Limited-edition Colorado Pint Day 2026 collectible glass
Why: Celebrate Colorado’s 150th birthday, America’s 250th, and support local craft breweries!

The full list of participating Colorado breweries will drop in late March — stay tuned!

About the Colorado Brewers Guild
Raise a frosty pint to the Colorado Brewers Guild, the hoppy heroes who cracked open in 1995 right in Boulder! Born from a spirited group of craft brewers tired of watching their sudsy dreams get watered down, the Guild was founded to promote and protect Colorado’s booming beer scene. Back then, the state was already bubbling with 56 breweries—the most since the gold rush days of 1875—and these trailblazers quickly scored their first big win in 1996 by fighting off a restrictive bill and securing a much tastier 60,000-barrel cap for brewpubs. Talk about a heady victory!

Today, the Colorado Brewers Guild is the frothy force behind what we all know as the State of Craft Beer. As a nonprofit trade association, they advocate, educate, and rally the state’s 400+ independent breweries, helping them innovate, thrive, and throw legendary events that keep the good vibes flowing. From lobbying for beer-friendly laws to building a tight-knit brewing community, the Guild keeps Colorado’s craft scene lager than life—one delicious, community-driven pint at a time!

Visit coloradobeer.org for events, membership info, and more.

Cheers to Colorado craft beer — see you on April 29th! 🍻🦖

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From those scrappy beginnings, Stone’s history is pure zany rebellion. In 1996, when distributors wouldn’t touch craft beer, Greg Koch and Steve Wagner bought their own van (an Aerostar, no less!) and started hauling kegs from multiple small breweries to bars and stores themselves—literally building the distribution network that fueled the craft explosion. They grew fast: moving to a state-of-the-art Escondido facility in 2006, adding solar power and eco-friendly practices (like turning spent grain into animal feed), opening an East Coast spot in Richmond, VA in 2016, and even briefly running a Berlin brewery. Through it all, the gargoyle stood guard over epic, no-compromise brews like Stone Ruination IPA (a double IPA monster), Double Bastard Ale, Stone Imperial Russian Stout, and Stone Old Guardian Barley Wine. Classics like Stone Delicious IPA (juicy, crushable citrus bomb) and fun experiments like Buenaveza Salt & Lime Lager kept the party going. Stone didn’t just brew beer—they waged war on boring brews with attitude, innovation, and a healthy dose of arrogance.

Now, in 2026, Stone Brewing is throwing the ultimate bash for its 30th anniversary, toasting three decades of passion, collaboration, and kick-ass beer. The year-long celebration kicks off with special gold packaging on flagship Stone IPA, plus the 30th Anniversary Sweepstakes—grand prizes include epic San Diego trips with behind-the-scenes brewery tours, brewer hangouts, and meals at both Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens spots (Escondido and Liberty Station). First-place winners snag $500 merch bundles. Enter now and cross your fingers!

True to Stone’s collaborative spirit (remember that DIY distribution van?), 2026 brings a slew of collabs with old and new friends—most on draft at Stone spots, with one big San Diego partnership hitting shelves in 16oz six-packs this summer. They’re dusting off the archives too: limited rebrews and small-batch releases available only at Stone locations, including fan-faves like Stone Sublimely Self-Righteous IPA, Stone Ruination IPA, Stone Imperial Stout, and Stone Old Guardian Barley Wine. Draft-only gems feature the original Stone Pale Ale, Stone Mocha IPA, and a mind-blowing fresh-hop Ruination made with hops picked at dawn in Washington, flown same-day to San Diego, and brewed immediately for peak freshness. Nostalgia meets next-level execution at every taproom visit.

The grand finale? A late-summer 30th Anniversary Celebration festival packed with invitational guest breweries, fresh innovations, classic Stone pours, live entertainment, and ticket prices straight out of 1996 for that old-school vibe. Follow @StoneBrewing on Instagram for weekly throwbacks, release drops, and surprises all year.

As CEO Zach Keeling puts it, this milestone honors the fans, team, and partners who’ve built Stone’s greatness. From a single Aerostar van to a craft empire, Stone Brewing’s zany, bold history proves one thing: greatness is built on a foundation of hops, heart, and a little arrogance. Raise a Stone IPA (or an Arrogant Bastard) to 30 years of protecting palates from boring beer—here’s to many more!

Enter Stone’s Ultimate Brewery Experience Sweepstakes!
The year kicks off by spotlighting the iconic brewery’s flagship Stone IPA with limited-time gold packaging and a 30th Anniversary Sweepstakes. Grand Prize winners will be selected in May and September for a trip to San Diego including behind the scenes brewery experiences with Stone brewers and meals at both Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens locations. Additional First Place winners will be selected to receive a merchandise bundle valued at $500. Enter to win here.

ABOUT STONE BREWING
Founded in 1996, Stone Brewing pioneered the West Coast Style IPA, helping to fuel the modern craft beer revolution and inspire generations of hop fanatics. Today Stone operates breweries in Escondido, CA and Richmond, VA plus seven tap room and bistro locations. Stone offers a wide range of craft beers including its most popular Stone IPA, Stone Delicious IPA and Stone Buenaveza Lager. The company’s long list of environmental efforts includes a LEED Silver Certification, world-class water reclamation and creative uses of spent grain. Stone has been called the “All-time Top Brewery on Planet Earth” by BeerAdvocate magazine twice. To find Stone beers, visit find.stonebrewing.com. For more information on Stone Brewing visit stonebrewing.com, Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

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Denver, Colorado — The Great American Beer Festival® (GABF®) is taking a bold step into the open air! For the first time in its storied history, the nation’s premier craft beer celebration will move outdoors to Denver’s Levitt Pavilion on Saturday, October 10, and Sunday, October 11, 2026, departing from its longtime home at the Colorado Convention Center.

This exciting relocation brings together GABF’s world-class lineup of beers with live music, panoramic views, and the vibrant energy of an open-sky festival experience.

“Great American Beer Festival has always mirrored the evolution of American craft beer,” said Ann Obenchain, vice president of marketing and communications for the Brewers Association. “Moving outdoors allows us to reimagine the possibilities and infuse the event with fresh excitement. We’re thrilled to deliver a distinctly Colorado experience that celebrates community, discovery, and great beer under the open sky.”

Nestled in Denver’s Ruby Hill neighborhood within Ruby Hill Park, Levitt Pavilion is a nonprofit outdoor amphitheater known for its expansive green lawns, stunning city vistas, and integrated stage. The venue opens up exciting new opportunities, including live music integrations, expansive open-air tasting areas, and an enhanced PAIRED event.
“Levitt Pavilion is honored to host the Great American Beer Festival and welcome its brewers, partners, and fans to Ruby Hill Park this fall,” said Meghan McNamara, executive director of Levitt Pavilion Denver. “Our mission is to foster community through music and shared experiences, and this partnership with the Brewers Association beautifully extends that vision for both organizations.”

While the location is new, the heart of GABF remains unchanged: hundreds of breweries pouring thousands of beers, a national stage for award-winning craft beverages, now elevated by fresh air, plenty of space to explore, and the communal joy that only an outdoor gathering can provide.

“This is more than a venue change—it’s a true evolution,” Obenchain added. “We’ve heard from our attendees, and we’re designing an outdoor festival that invites everyone to relax on the lawn with friends, discover new favorites, and savor craft beer in a relaxed, celebratory atmosphere.”

After more than 40 years as a cornerstone of American beer culture, GABF’s shift outdoors reflects the industry’s adaptability and looks ahead to a bold, vibrant future. Tickets go on sale in June 2026—sign up for alerts now and get ready to join us under the Colorado sky!

Event Details
Dates: Saturday, October 10, and Sunday, October 11, 2026
Time: 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. each day
Location: Levitt Pavilion, Ruby Hill Park, Denver
Tickets: Starting at $60. On sale June 2026.
For more information and to sign up for ticket alerts, visit greatamericanbeerfestival.com.

ATLANTA – On a crisp Saturday evening at the Wrecking Bar Brewpub, craft-beer fans braved the December chill to celebrate Georgia’s boldest brews at the 2025 Georgia Strong Beer Festival. Dedicated exclusively to beers 8% ABV and higher, the annual event once again proved that when it comes to big, barrel-aged, and boundary-pushing beers, Georgia’s brewing scene is firing on all cylinders.

After a full day of blind judging on Friday by BJCP-certified judges, the medal winners were unveiled during the festival. Cherry Street Brewing walked away with the night’s biggest prize: Best of Show for their Halcyon Barrel-Aged Imperial Breakfast Stout. The coffee-forward, maple-kissed behemoth also claimed gold in the fiercely competitive Barrel-Aged Stout & Porter category, cementing Cherry Street as the undisputed heavyweight champion of 2025.

2025 Medal Winners – Georgia Strong Beer Festival
Best of Show
Cherry Street Brewing (Cumming) – Halcyon Barrel-Aged Imperial Breakfast Stout

Category 1 – Barrel-Aged Stout & Porter
Gold: Cherry Street Brewing – Halcyon Barrel-Aged Imperial Breakfast Stout
Silver: Variant Brewing (Roswell) – Barrel-Aged Mexican Chocolate Stout
Bronze: Scofflaw Brewing (Atlanta) – Basement BA Imperial Stout (Coconut)

Category 2 – Imperial IPA / Double IPA
Gold: New Realm Brewing (Atlanta) – Hopocalypse
Silver: Monday Night Brewing (Atlanta) – Fistful of Hops: Citra & Mosaic
Bronze: Gate City Brewing (Roswell) – Big Stan DIPA

Category 3 – Belgian Strong Ale & Quadrupel
Gold: Orpheus Brewing (Atlanta) – Life.Death.Life. (2025 Barrel-Aged Blend)
Silver: Halfway Crooks Beer / The Lost Abbey (Atlanta/San Marcos, CA) – Crooked Abbey Quad
Bronze: Wild Leap Brew Co. (LaGrange) – Belgian Dark Strong Ale

Category 4 – Barleywine (English & American)
Gold: Creature Comforts Brewing (Athens) – Old Stock English Barleywine (2024 vintage)
Silver: Arches Brewing (Hapeville) – 2024 English Barleywine
Bronze: Reformation Brewery (Woodstock) – Jude Barrel-Aged Barleywine (2025)

Georgia breweries swept every gold medal, with only one out-of-state collaboration (San Diego’s The Lost Abbey teaming up with Atlanta’s Halfway Crooks) cracking the podium. In total, 11 different Georgia breweries medaled, showcasing depth from metro Atlanta powerhouses to rising stars in Athens, LaGrange, and beyond.

Festival attendees were treated to more than 150 strong beers from over 50 breweries, including rare tappings of barrel-aged rarities, vintage barleywines, and hazy triple IPAs that pushed 12–14% ABV while somehow remaining dangerously drinkable. Live music, local food trucks, and a heated VIP tent kept the vibes high despite temperatures dipping into the 40s.

Now in its seventh year, the Georgia Strong Beer Festival—organized by the Georgia Craft Brewers Guild—continues to grow in prestige. With national-caliber winners like Cherry Street’s Halcyon stout now in the conversation for year-end “best of” lists, Georgia’s reputation for world-class big beers has never been stronger.

Raise a (responsibly small) glass: the Peach State is brewing some of the boldest beers in America.
See you next December.

More about the Georgia Craft Brewer’s Guild
The Georgia Craft Brewers Guild (GCBG) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and protecting the interests of Georgia’s independent craft breweries. Founded in 2010, the Guild advocates for favorable legislation to modernize beer laws, supports member breweries through education, awareness initiatives, and professional development, and fosters community engagement by organizing signature events such as the Georgia Craft Brewers Festival, Georgia Beer Day, and collaborations that highlight the state’s vibrant craft beer scene. By championing local brewers and driving economic growth in the industry, the GCBG plays a vital role in ensuring Georgia’s craft beer community continues to thrive and innovate.

Top 10 Beer Festivals in America plus a few more: Click Here!

In the heart of the Rockies, where crisp mountain air meets creative brewing genius, the inaugural 2025 Colorado Brewers Cup turned into an epic hoppy showdown that had beer lovers raising their pints in triumph! Over 650 entries from 134 craft breweries battled it out in 26 categories, judged blindly by 58 pros who surely needed a designated driver after tasting all that liquid gold. Denver’s River North Brewery crushed it as Mid-Size Brewery of the Year with four medals (including golds for bold Belgian ales and decadent coffee-chocolate desserts), while Durango legend Carver Brewing Co. claimed Small Brewery of the Year honors with a trio of shiny awards. Westbound & Down dominated the hoppy scene with six medals total, proving Colorado’s IPAs and pilsners are basically unbeatable. From moonlit dunkels to cinnamon-roll blondes, this first-ever state-only competition celebrated the wild, innovative spirit of the Centennial State’s craft beer scene — cheers to more foam-filled victories in 2026!

Congrats to all the medal winners at the Colorado Brewers Cup. Especially the Carver Brewing and River North Brewery which won “Brewery of the Year” honors.

Colorado Brewers Cup 2025 Award Winners:
Brewery of the Year: Small (0-600 barrels) – Carver Brewing Co.
Brewery of the Year: Mid-sized (600+ barrels) – River North Brewery

Colorado Brewers Cup 2025 Medal Winners:

American & International Pale Lagers
Gold: Cerveceria Colorado (Denver) – Venga
Silver: Westbound & Down Brewing Co. (Idaho Springs) – Landing Gear Pils
Bronze: Ratio Beerworks (Denver) – Cityscapes

Pale Bitter European Lagers
Gold: New Image Brewing Co. (Wheat Ridge) – Classic Pilsner
Silver: Hideaway Park Brewery (Winter Park) – Dortmunder
Bronze: Seedstock Brewing Co. (Denver) – Seedstock German Pilsner

Hoppy Pale American & International Lagers
Gold: Hideaway Park Brewery (Winter Park) – Publik Skool Pilsner
Silver: Westbound & Down Brewing Co. (Idaho Springs) – Infinity Pils
Bronze: WestFax Brewing Co. (Lakewood) – Pillieve

Golden, Blonde, & Other Light Ales
Gold: Westbound & Down Mill (Lafayette) – The Coloradan
Silver: Bristol Brewing Co. (Colorado Springs) – Beehive Honey Wheat
Bronze: LUKI Brewery (Arvada) – Tuba Cheer

Kölsch
Gold: New Terrain Brewing Co. (Golden) – Rise and Climb
Silver: Liquid Mechanics Brewing (Lafayette) – Kölsch
Bronze: Joyride Brewing Co. (Edgewater) – Ice Cutter Kölsch

Pale Malty European Lagers
Gold: Fritz Family Brewers (Niwot) – The Boss
Silver: Carver Brewing Co. (Durango) – Lightner Creek Lager
Bronze: Resolute Brewing Co. (Centennial) – Front Porch

Amber Lagers
Gold: Eagle River Brewing (Eagle) – ERB Octoberfest
Silver: Eagle River Brewing (Eagle) – Free Stone Lager
Bronze: Seedstock Brewing Co. (Denver) – Seedstock Bohemian Dunkel

Dark Lagers
Gold: Wibby Brewing (Longmont)- Moondoor Dunkel
Silver: Seedstock Brewing Co. (Denver)- Seedstock Roggen Schwarzbier
Bronze: Fritz Family Brewers (Niwot) – Niwot After Dark

Fruit & Field Beers
Gold: Elevation Beer Co. (Poncha Springs) – Coconut Oil Man
Silver: Strange Brewing Co. (Denver) – Cherry Kriek
Bronze: Avant Garde Aleworks (Estes Park)- Harvest Saison

Session & Pale Ales
Gold: Cannonball Creek Brewing Co. (Golden) – Featherweight
Silver: Cannonball Creek Brewing Co. (Golden) – Trump Hands
Bronze: Comrade Brewing Co. (Denver) – Honeyman 64

Standard American-Style IPAs
Gold: Amalgam Brewing(Denver) – Modern West
Silver: Westbound & Down Mill (Lafayette) – Westbound Select
Bronze: Westbound & Down Mill (Lafayette) – Westbound IPA

Standard International & Experimental Hoppy Beers
Gold: Silver: Westbound & Down Mill (Lafayette) – Spirit of the West
Silver: Second Dawn (Aurora) – Tree Run
Bronze: Cerebral Brewing – Aurora Arts (Aurora) – Gasoline Rainbows

Standard Hazy Pale Ales & IPAs
Gold: Living the Dream Brewing Co. (Highlands Ranch) – Trailhead Fog
Silver: Beyond The Mountain Brewing (Boulder) – I Wish You More
Bronze: Aspen Brewing Co. (Aspen) – Excess In Moderation

Strong & Imperial Hoppy Beers
Gold: Station 26 Brewing Co. (Denver) – 11th Anniversary Double IPA
Silver: Cerebral Brewing – Aurora Arts (Aurora) – Cheat Code
Bronze: Odell Brewing Sloan’s Lake Brewhouse (Denver) – Cloudship

Malty North American Beers
Gold: Telluride Brewing Co. (Telluride) – Face Down Brown
Silver: Carver Brewing Co. (Durango) – Old Oak Amber Ale
Bronze: Odell Brewing (Fort Collins) – 90 Shilling

Classic UK Amber & Brown Ales
Gold: Stodgy Brewing Co. (Fort Collins) – Scottish Ale
Silver: Bristol Brewing Co. (Colorado Springs) – Draft Project London Brown
Bronze: Carver Brewing Co. (Durango) – Colorado Trail Nut Brown Ale

Porters & Stouts
Gold: Banded Oak Brewing (Denver) – Paramount Porter
Silver: Stodgy Brewing Co. (Fort Collins) – English Porter
Bronze: Bent Barley Brewing Co. (Aurora) – Dry Irish Stout

Strong Classic UK & North American Ales
Gold: River North Brewery (Denver) – Mr. Sandman
Silver: Verboten Brewing (Loveland) – Grow Old With You
Bronze: River North Brewery (Denver) – Hello Darkness

Herb, Spice, & Smoked Beers
Gold: Liquid Mechanics Brewing (Lafayette) – El Poblano Borracho
Silver: Left Hand Brewing Co. (Longmont) – Mexican Hot Chocolate Milk Stout
Bronze: Incantation Brewing (Aurora) – Signals

Continental Rye & Wheat Beers
Gold: LUKI Brewery (Arvada) – Dunk On Em
Silver: Tres Litros Beer Co. (Salida) – Hamer Time
Bronze: New Terrain Brewing Co. (Golden) – Suntrip

Belgian and French Ales
Gold: River North Brewery (Denver) – River North White
Silver: Elevation Beer Co. (Poncha Springs) – Apis IV
Bronze: Windfall Brewing Co. (Westminster) – Windfall Saison

Sour Ales
Gold: Bruz Beers (Denver) – Ghost in the Wood
Silver: Diebolt Brewing Co. (Denver) – David Frambowie
Bronze: Berkeley Alley Beer Co (Arvada) – Pistachio Lemon Meringue

Coffee, Chocolate, & Dessert Beers
Gold: River North Brewery (Denver) – Nightmare Fuel
Silver: Verboten Brewing (Loveland) – Others in Darkness: Irish Coffee
Bronze: 300 Suns Brewing (Longmont)- Psychotic Balaclava Horchata Stout

Brett & Wild Beers
Gold: Crooked Stave Brewing Co. (Denver) – Spon
Silver: Cellar West Brewery (Lafayette) – Green Spur
Bronze: Primitive Beer (Lafayette) – Stable Of Stars

Wood & Aged Beers
Gold: Launch Pad Brewery (Aurora) – Magnificent Desolation (Russell 8 Year)
Silver: Cerebral Brewing – Aurora Arts (Aurora) – Here Be Monsters
Bronze: Locavore Beer Works (Littleton) – Black Pearl 4×3

Experimental & Specialty Beers
Gold: The Post Brewing Co. (Lafayette) – East County Fine Malt Liquor
Silver: Bearded Brewer Artisan Ales (Longmont) – Cinnamon Roll Blonde Ale
Bronze: Wonderland Brewing Co. (Broomfield) – Oily Oaf

The Colorado Brewers Guild
The Colorado Brewers Guild is a non-profit trade organization dedicated to promoting, protecting, and advancing independent craft breweries across the State of Craft Beer. Through advocacy, community building, education, and public outreach, we support a thriving craft beer culture. Our members include operating breweries, breweries in planning, and industry partners. Today, the majority of Colorado’s 400+ craft breweries are proud members of the CBG. Website: https://coloradobeer.org/

 

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Celebrating National American Beer Day: A Toast to Tradition and and Craft
Every year on October 27, beer enthusiasts across the United States raise their glasses to celebrate National American Beer Day, a day dedicated to honoring the rich history, cultural significance, and vibrant craft of American beer. From the crisp lagers of the Midwest to the hop-heavy IPAs of the West Coast, this day is a tribute to the diversity and innovation that define the American beer scene. So, grab a cold one, and let’s dive into the story of National American Beer Day, its origins, and why it’s a beloved occasion for beer lovers everywhere.

The Origins of National American Beer Day
While the exact origins of National American Beer Day are somewhat hazy—like a good hazy IPA—the day is believed to have emerged in the early 21st century as a way to celebrate the resurgence of American brewing. The date, October 27, may not have a definitive historical event tied to it, but it aligns with the fall season, a time when breweries historically released their seasonal beers and communities gathered to enjoy the fruits of the harvest.
Beer has been a part of American culture since colonial times, with early settlers brewing their own concoctions using local ingredients like corn and molasses. By the 19th century, German immigrants brought their lager-making expertise, transforming the U.S. into a beer-loving nation. However, Prohibition (1920–1933) nearly wiped out the industry, leaving only a handful of large-scale breweries in its wake. The craft beer revolution of the late 20th century, led by pioneers like Sierra Nevada and Samuel Adams, sparked a renaissance that gave rise to thousands of microbreweries and brewpubs, making American beer a global force.
National American Beer Day celebrates this journey—from humble colonial brews to the innovative craft beers that have put the U.S. on the map as a brewing powerhouse.

Why American Beer?
American beer is as diverse as the nation itself. The U.S. boasts over 9,000 breweries (as of recent data), ranging from small, family-run operations to industry giants. This diversity is reflected in the styles of beer produced, which include:
Lagers: Crisp, clean, and refreshing, lagers like those from Yuengling (America’s oldest brewery, founded in 1829) remain a staple at bars and backyard barbecues.
IPAs: The India Pale Ale, with its bold hops and bitter bite, has become the poster child of the craft beer movement, with West Coast, New England, and double IPAs dominating tap lists.
Stouts and Porters: Rich, dark, and often infused with flavors like coffee or chocolate, these beers showcase American creativity.
Sours and Wild Ales: A newer trend, these tart, funky beers highlight the experimental spirit of American brewers.
Seasonals and Specialty Brews: From pumpkin ales in the fall to fruity shandies in the summer, American brewers embrace local and seasonal ingredients to create unique flavors.

What sets American beer apart is its fearless innovation. Brewers experiment with everything from barrel aging to unusual ingredients like peanut butter, maple syrup, or even hot peppers. This creativity has earned American beers countless awards at international competitions, proving that the U.S. is no longer just a consumer of great beer—it’s a creator.
How to Celebrate National American Beer Day

National American Beer Day is all about appreciating the craft, community, and culture of American beer. Here are some ways to join the festivities:
Visit a Local Brewery: Support your local craft brewery by stopping by for a pint or a flight. Many breweries host special events, tap takeovers, or release limited-edition beers on this day. Check their social media or websites for details.
Host a Beer Tasting: Gather friends and sample a variety of American beers. Include a mix of styles—perhaps a crisp lager, a juicy IPA, and a velvety stout. Pair them with snacks like pretzels, cheese, or spicy wings to elevate the experience.
Learn About Brewing: Take a brewery tour or dive into the history of American beer. Many breweries offer behind-the-scenes looks at their process, from malting to fermentation.
Raise a Glass to History: Toast to iconic American breweries like Anheuser-Busch, Miller, or Coors, which have shaped the industry, or to trailblazers like Anchor Brewing, whose Anchor Steam Beer helped kickstart the craft movement.
Share on Social Media: Post about your favorite American beer using hashtags like #NationalAmericanBeerDay or #CraftBeer. Many breweries engage with fans online, and you might discover new brews to try.
Cook with Beer: Incorporate beer into your cooking—think beer-battered fish, stout-infused chili, or IPA-marinated chicken. The flavors of American beer can add depth to your dishes.

The Economic and Cultural Impact
The American beer industry is a powerhouse, contributing over $400 billion annually to the U.S. economy and supporting millions of jobs, from farmers growing hops to bartenders pouring pints. Craft breweries, in particular, have revitalized small towns and urban neighborhoods, turning taprooms into community hubs where people gather to connect and celebrate.
Culturally, beer is woven into the American fabric. It’s there at baseball games, tailgates, and holiday gatherings. National American Beer Day reminds us of the role beer plays in bringing people together, fostering creativity, and showcasing regional pride.

Fun Facts About American Beer
Oldest Brewery: D.G. Yuengling & Son, founded in 1829 in Pottsville, Pennsylvania, is the oldest operating brewery in the U.S.
Craft Boom: The number of craft breweries has grown from just 89 in 1978 to over 9,000 today, according to the Brewers Association.
Hops Haven: The Pacific Northwest, especially Yakima Valley in Washington, produces about 75% of the nation’s hops, a key ingredient in many beers.
Beer Capitals: Cities like Portland, Oregon, and Asheville, North Carolina, are renowned for their high brewery-per-capita ratios.

A Toast to the Future
As we celebrate National American Beer Day on October 27, 2025, we look forward to the continued evolution of American beer. With sustainability efforts, new brewing techniques, and a growing emphasis on inclusivity in the industry, the future is bright for this beloved beverage. Whether you’re a fan of a classic Budweiser or a barrel-aged sour from a local microbrewery, there’s an American beer for every palate.
So, this National American Beer Day, head to your favorite taproom, crack open a cold one, or try brewing your own at home. Cheers to the brewers, the dreamers, and the beer lovers who make this day—and American beer—something to celebrate!

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The return of Barrel Aged Beer Day is October 3, 2025! For this global holiday, we honor the people, passion and time invested in creating beautiful, barrel-aged beers.

The first Friday of October is Barrel Aged Beer Day.  Brewers and beer drinkers should celebrate with colleagues and customers alike. A tap takeover featuring beers that have been in contact with wood, an educational panel about the processes involved and special bottle releases are all great ways to give a nod to the art form.

2025 U.S, Open Beer Championship Barrel Aged Medal Winners

Barrel-Aged Dark Beer
Gold: Plaid Habit – Boulevard Brewing Company – Missouri
Silver: Buffal-Oak Stout – Full Fledged Brewing Co. – Iowa

Barrel-Aged Strong Beer
Gold: Royal Oil – Bull & Bush Brewery – Colorado
Silver: The Brawler – Northern Row – Ohio
Bronze: Perpetual Peace – No Label Brewing Co – Texas

Barrel-Aged Strong Stout/Porter
Gold: GSO Barrel Select Stout 2024 – Forgotten Road Ales – North Carolina
Silver: 3 year Barrel Aged Family Reserve Sleepy Bear – Werk Force Brewing – Illinois
Bronze: Eclipse – Frey Ranch – FiftyFifty Brewing Co. – California

Barrel-Aged Strong/Porter Extreme (12.5%+)
Gold: Assassin – Toppling Goliath Brewing Company – Iowa
Silver: Sir Blends A-Lot #5 – Mikerphone Brewing- Illinois
Bronze: Barrel God Cuvée – 2025 Blend       Lupulin Brewing Company – Minnesota
Bronze: Rye Barrel Aged Night Whale 2023 – Rhinegeist Brewery – Ohio

Barrel-Aged Strong Stout/Porter Specialty 
Gold: Maple Grenade – Silver Harbor Brewing – Michigan
Silver: BA Pumpkinhead – Pontoon Brewing – Georgia
Bronze: Ammo Can: Lima One – Forgotten Road Ales – North Carolina

Barrel-Aged Breakfast Stout
Gold: Kentucky Brunch Brand Stout – Toppling Goliath Brewing Company – Iowa
Silver: Blackout Brunch – Turning Point Beer – Texas
Bronze: Brunch with Santa – Low Tide Brewing – South Carolina

Barrel-Aged Fruited Sour Beer
Gold: Daydreamer – Vista Brewing – Texas
Silver: The Virtue of Patience – Bold Monk Brewing Co – Georgia
Bronze: Angels in the Architecture – Bold Monk Brewing Co – Georgia
Bronze: Black Angel – Wicked Weed Brewing – North Carolina

Wood/Barrel-Aged Fruit Beer
Gold: How Sweet It Is – Cherry Street Brewing at Halcyon – Georgia
Silver: Huckleberry Hounds – Bull & Bush Brewery – Colorado
Bronze: Barrel Aged Skooma – Fabled Brew Works – Kentucky

Wood/Barrel-Aged Strong Scotch Ale
Gold: Old Chungus – Confluence Brewing Company – Iowa
Silver: Diddy Muckle – Sun King Brewery – Indiana
Bronze: Get in My Belly – Cherry Street Brewing at Halcyon – Georgia

Barrel-Aged Barley Wine
Gold: Barrel Aged Matters of Importance – Narrow Path Brewing Company – Ohio
Silver: 12.12.12 2024 – Cherry Street Brewing at Vickery Village – Georgia
Bronze: Kelly’s Private Stash – Third Eye Brewing Company (Hamilton) – Ohio

Barrel-Aged Quad/Belgian Dark Ale
Gold: To Be Loved By You – Cherry Street Brewing at Halcyon – Georgia
Silver: Muese Valley – More Brewing Company- Illinois
Bronze: Barrel Reserve 2025 – River North Brewery – Colorado

Blended Barrel-Aged Beer
Gold: In the Black – Taxman Brewing Company – Indiana
Silver: Nullification – Woodland Farm Brewery – New York
Bronze: 5th Anniversary Blend – Third Eye Brewing Company (Hamilton) – Ohio

Rum Barrel-Aged Beer
Gold: Soul Shakedown Party – Sun King Brewery – Indiana
Silver: Big Hands I Know Your The One –  Unrefined Brewing – Florida
Bronze: Ghoul Fuel: The Rum Diaries – Bull & Bush Brewery – Colorado

Spirits Barrel-Aged Beer (Non-Whiskey)
Gold: Shadow King Maple Cognac – Monday Night Brewing – Georgia
Silver: The Path – Bold Monk Brewing Co – Georgia
Bronze: Double Oaked Cognac Grow Old With You – Verboten Brewing and Barrel Project – Colorado

Wine Barrel-Aged Beer
Gold: Port Barrel Qualified – Taxman Brewing Company – Indiana
Silver: Heaviest Snuggz – Forbidden Root Columbus – Ohio
Bronze: Shadow King Syrah – Monday Night Brewing – Georgia

Barrel-Aged German Lager
Gold: BA New Old Stock – Bissell Brothers – Maine
Silver: BA Doppelbock 2024 – Lupulin Brewing Company – Minnesota
Bronze: Bourbon Barrel Aged Toasted Pecan Dopplebock – Saddle Mountain Brewing Company – Arizona
Bronze: Wild Dreams: Chapter 2 – Wild Barley Kitchen and Brewery – Texas

 

 

For Fun Beer Facts, Trivia and more: Click Here

 

Fat Bear Week, an annual celebration hosted by Alaska’s Katmai National Park and Preserve, transforms the primal act of brown bears bulking up for hibernation into a global online spectacle. Each October, fans worldwide vote in a bracket-style tournament to crown the chubbiest bear, using live webcams and before-and-after photos to marvel at their salmon-fueled transformations. Launched in 2014 as “Fat Bear Tuesday” by ranger Mike Fitz, it has grown into a week-long event, drawing over a million votes in 2024 and spotlighting conservation issues like salmon run preservation. More than a quirky contest, Fat Bear Week celebrates survival, showcasing bears like two-time champ Grazer, who embody nature’s awe-inspiring resilience.  Katmai Conservancy and Fat Bear Week Website

Sipping in Solidarity: Beers to Pair with Fat Bear Week
Fat Bear Week isn’t just about voting for the chunkiest grizzlies at Alaska’s Katmai National Park—it’s a call to celebrate survival through epic bulking. And what better way to toast those salmon-stuffed bears than with a beer that matches their vibe: rich, hearty, and unapologetically full-bodied? Skip the light lagers; we’re talking brews that evoke the wild Alaskan frontier, the thrill of the Brooks River, or just the joy of getting comfortably plump. Here’s an updated lineup of recommendations to crack open while you fill out your bracket (voting runs September 23–30, 2025, at fatbearweek.org). I’ve added a spot-on Alaskan gem requested by a fan: Midnight Sun Brewing’s Kodiak Brown Ale, with its iconic Kodiak brown bear on the can—perfect thematic symmetry for our rotund heroes.

1) Russian Imperial Stout (The Bear’s Winter Bulk-Up Brew)
Why it fits: These dark, roasty heavyweights are like the bears themselves—massive, malty, and built for hibernation. With notes of chocolate, coffee, and a boozy warmth (often 8–12% ABV), they’re perfect for curling up with the live cams on Explore.org as Chunk or Grazer defends their title.
Top Pick: North Coast Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout. At around $4–6 per 12-oz bottle, it’s a Katmai classic: bold enough to honor the bears’ 1,000-pound gains, but smooth for marathon viewing sessions.
Pro Tip: Pair with a cheese board to channel that “Fat Bear Training Regimen” from X users—beer, cheese, nap, repeat.

2) Midnight Sun Brewing Co. Kodiak Brown Ale (The Thematic Kodiak King)
Why it fits: Named after Alaska’s legendary Kodiak brown bears (the very species bulking up at Katmai), this rugged American brown ale channels the event’s wild essence. With balanced caramel and roasted malts, subtle Northwest hops (Perle and Willamette), and fruity undertones of grape and apple, it’s smooth yet adventurous—like a bear flipping salmon without the splash. At 5.3% ABV, it’s sessionable for all-day voting, and the can’s fierce Kodiak bear artwork makes it an instant conversation starter (or bracket mascot).
Top Pick: Midnight Sun Kodiak Brown Ale ($2–4 per 12-oz can). A top seller since 1995 from Anchorage’s Midnight Sun Brewing Co., it’s widely available in Alaska and beyond—proof that Alaskans aren’t afraid of the dark (or a good malt-forward pour).
Pro Tip: Crack one open during the cub bracket reveal; its nutty, roasty finish pairs perfectly with trail mix, evoking the bears’ pre-hibernation feast.

3) Alaska Brewing Co. Alaskan Amber (The Local Legend)
Why it fits: Brewed in Juneau, this malty red ale nods to Alaska’s rugged spirit and the salmon runs fueling the bears. It’s balanced with caramel sweetness and a hoppy edge, evoking the crisp fall air at Brooks Falls without overwhelming your palate.
Top Pick: Alaskan Amber Ale ($2–3 per bottle). Affordable, widely available, and a subtle tie-in to the state’s brewing scene—imagine toasting to the ecosystem that keeps those sockeye swimming.
Pro Tip: If you’re feeling festive, hunt for seasonal releases; Alaska breweries often riff on wildlife themes during fall.

4) Belgian Tripel or Quad (The Bracket-Busting Indulgence)
Why it fits: Golden and complex, these abbey-style ales are effervescent celebrations of abundance, much like the bears flipping salmon mid-air. High ABV (7–11%) means one glass packs a punch, mirroring a dominant male bear’s tournament run.
Top Pick: Chimay Blue (Quadrupel) or Westmalle Tripel ($5–8 per bottle). The fruity esters and spicy yeast cut through any post-vote hype, and they’re great for sharing at a virtual watch party.
Pro Tip: Go for a “Fat Beer Week” twist—inspired by a podcast episode riffing on the event—by aging a quad for deeper flavors, just like bears layering on blubber.

5) Hazy IPA (The Underdog Cub’s Wild Card)
Why it fits: Juicy and forgiving, hazy IPAs burst with tropical notes, capturing the playful energy of Fat Bear Jr. contenders. They’re sessionable yet satisfying, ideal for late-night bracket predictions without the crash.
Top Pick: Tree House Julius ($6–7 per can). Cloudy like a foggy Alaskan morning, with massive mango and passionfruit vibes to keep the party going through the finals.
Pro Tip: For a thematic hack, seek out “Bear”-named IPAs like Russian River’s Pliny the Elder (a double IPA) or New Belgium’s Fat Tire Amber—easy crowd-pleasers that nod to the event’s body-positivity roots.

No matter your pick, drink responsibly—bears don’t hibernate with regrets, and neither should you. These beers turn passive scrolling into an immersive ritual, raising a glass to resilience and rotundity. What’s your go-to? Vote for your fave bear, sip accordingly, and may the chubbiest contender win.

The Plump Legacy: A History of Fat Bear Week
In the wild expanse of Alaska’s Katmai National Park and Preserve, where the Brooks River teems with sockeye salmon, an unlikely annual spectacle has captured hearts worldwide. Fat Bear Week isn’t just a quirky online tournament—it’s a celebration of survival, resilience, and the sheer audacity of nature’s engineering. Each fall, as brown bears bulk up for the brutal winter ahead, millions tune in to vote for the chubbiest contender. But how did this rotund rivalry begin? Let’s trace the fattening footsteps from its humble origins to its status as a global phenomenon. Website and

The Salmon-Fueled Spark: Origins in 2014
Fat Bear Week traces its roots to 2014, when it debuted as the more modest “Fat Bear Tuesday.” The mastermind behind this ursine extravaganza was Mike Fitz, a former interpretive ranger at Katmai National Park. Fitz noticed something remarkable: the park’s live webcams, streaming bears feasting on salmon at Brooks Falls, were drawing unprecedented online attention. These weren’t just casual viewers; people were hooked on the drama of grizzlies defending their fishing spots, flipping salmon mid-air, and—most importantly—packing on pounds.

Inspired by this digital devotion, Fitz proposed a simple contest. Park visitors would pore over before-and-after photos of select bears: scrawny spring arrivals versus autumnal behemoths swollen with success. Using a single-elimination bracket, participants voted for the bear that best embodied “fatness and success.” It was a nod to March Madness, but with claws, fur, and zero timeouts. The inaugural event, held in October 2014, was a hit, proving that even in the age of cat videos, a good bear belly could go viral.

From Tuesday to Tournament: Expansion and Evolution
By 2015, the event had outgrown its one-day format. Renamed Fat Bear Week, it stretched to a full seven days of bracket battles, hosted entirely online through partnerships with Explore.org and the National Park Service (NPS). This shift democratized participation—no park visit required. Suddenly, anyone with an internet connection could champion their favorite from afar, turning a remote Alaskan river into a virtual arena.

The tournament’s structure refined over time. Rangers select 12 adult bears (and later, cubs) based on criteria like clear before-and-after photos, frequent webcam appearances, and a mix of ages and genders. Head-to-head matchups pit fattest foes against each other, with public votes deciding who advances. The winner, crowned on the final day, becomes the Fat Bear Week champion—a title that signifies not just girth, but survival prowess. After all, these bears must amass enough blubber to endure five to seven months of hibernation, losing up to a third of their body weight without a single snack.
A milestone came in 2021 with the introduction of Fat Bear Junior, a cub-only bracket held a week earlier. This pint-sized parallel celebrates the next generation, highlighting family dynamics and the bears’ hierarchical society. It’s a reminder that in Katmai, fat isn’t frivolous—it’s essential.

Furry Fanfare: Memorable Moments and Viral Victors
Over the years, Fat Bear Week has spawned legends. In 2019, 435 Holly—a sassy sow known for her bold personality—claimed victory after a nail-biter against the massive 747, a bear whose belly reportedly measured three feet wide. 747 himself dominated in 2022, earning the nickname “Chunk” for his prodigious paunch.

But triumph has been bittersweet. The 2023 bracket reveal was postponed after a fatal clash between two bears, underscoring the raw wildness beneath the whimsy. And in 2024, Grazer, a resilient female and two-time champ (back-to-back with 2023), defended her title amid record-breaking viewership. These stories humanize the bears, transforming anonymous numbers (each bear is tagged with an ID like 480 or 151) into personalities: the underdog scrapper, the dominant dad, the clever fisher.
The event’s cultural ripple extends beyond brackets. It has inspired memes, merchandise, and even body-positivity campaigns. “Fat Bear Week is about celebrating success,” says NPS Superintendent Mark Sturm. “These bears remind us that in nature, bigger can be better—for survival.”

Why Bears Bulk Up: The Science of Salmon and Slumber
At its core, Fat Bear Week spotlights a biological imperative. Katmai’s Brooks River hosts one of the world’s largest sockeye salmon runs—millions of fish surging upstream to spawn. Bears exploit this bounty, consuming up to 30 salmon a day in peak season, prioritizing high-fat brains and eggs. A single bear might gain 30% of its body weight in summer, ballooning from 500 pounds to over 1,000.

This isn’t gluttony; it’s strategy. During hibernation, bears’ heart rates drop to eight beats per minute, and they recycle urea to build muscle and bone. A well-fed bear emerges in spring ready to breed and forage anew. By highlighting this, Fat Bear Week underscores threats like climate change and habitat loss, which could disrupt salmon runs and doom the bears’ buffet.

Global Impact: From Clicks to Conservation
What began as a ranger’s whim has ballooned into a movement. In 2024 alone, over a million votes poured in from 100 countries, with live cams on Explore.org racking up billions of views since 2014. Partnerships with the Katmai Conservancy and NPS channel enthusiasm into action: donations fund bear monitoring, trail maintenance, and advocacy for Bristol Bay’s intact ecosystem.
As 2025’s edition kicks off on September 23—mere hours from now—the stage is set for another showdown. Will Grazer make it a three-peat? Or will a newcomer steal the spotlight? One thing’s certain: Fat Bear Week endures because it taps into our primal awe of the wild. In a world of fleeting trends, these fattening felines remind us to root for the underbelly of nature’s grand design.
To join the fray, head to fatbearweek.org. Vote wisely—your click could crown the next legend of the Brooks. After all, in the kingdom of Katmai, the fattest bear isn’t just the winner; it’s the one most likely to roar into spring.