Beer Info

Beer News, Beer Releases and New Breweries

News

Lift Bridge Brewing Launches Farm Day Golden Ale as New Year-Round Favorite

by

Lift Bridge Brewing Launches Farm Day Golden AleSTILLWATER, Minnesota — Lift Bridge Brewing Company is excited to introduce its newest year-round release: Farm Day Golden Ale. This bright, crisp, and easy-drinking golden ale is now available on draft, in six-packs, and in twelve-packs of 12-oz cans throughout the region starting April 1, 2025.

Farm Day Golden AleCrafted with balance and refreshment in mind, Farm Day delivers a smooth drinking experience with subtle malt sweetness and delicate floral hop notes. With a 4.8% ABV, it’s the perfect companion for everyday moments—from tending your garden to relaxing on the porch.

Bright · Balanced · Crisp

“Farm Day is designed to capture the spirit of a personal ‘farm day’—whether you’re growing your own food, mowing the lawn, or simply soaking in the sunshine,” said the team at Lift Bridge. “It’s a golden ale that speaks to simple pleasures and fresh starts.”

Saying Farewell to Farm Girl
As Lift Bridge welcomes Farm Day to its core lineup, it also announces the retirement of Farm Girl, the brewery’s first-ever commercial release and a fan favorite since 2008. While Farm Girl Saison was known for its Belgian influence and specialty ingredients like orange peel and melon hops, Farm Day features an all-new recipe focused on traditional golden ale characteristics.

Though Farm Girl is being retired, the brewery hasn’t ruled out a limited return in the future.

What Sets Farm Day Apart?
Unlike its predecessor, Farm Day is a true Golden Ale, crafted for clarity, refreshment, and easy drinkability. It’s clean and light, with a balanced flavor profile that fits perfectly into Lift Bridge’s evolving portfolio of innovative beverages.

When and Where to Find Farm Day
Farm Day Golden Ale officially launches April 1, 2025, and will be distributed across Lift Bridge’s network of retailers and tap accounts. While some stores may still have Farm Girl on shelves during the transition, Farm Day is now the brewery’s flagship golden ale.

About Lift Bridge Brewing Company
Founded in 2008 in Stillwater, Minnesota, Lift Bridge Brewing Company began as a small homebrewing venture among friends and quickly grew into one of the region’s leading independent craft breweries. Known for fan-favorite beers like Farm Girl Saison and Hop Dish IPA, Lift Bridge has since expanded into a diverse range of products, including hard seltzers, sodas, non-alcoholic mocktails, and THC-infused beverages.

In addition to its original Stillwater location, Lift Bridge operates a production facility and taproom in New Richmond, Wisconsin, and is planning a third location in Hudson, Wisconsin, complete with a restaurant, brewery, and event space.

Today, Lift Bridge Brewing produces over 20,000 barrels annually, employs more than 30 people, and continues to elevate life’s moments with innovative and high-quality beverages rooted in Midwestern tradition.

 

For more information on Lift Bridge Brewing, click here.

For Brewing fun facts, trivia, movies and more, Click Here.

Paradox Brewery’s Helles Lager Wins Gold at 2025 New York State Craft Beer Competition

by

Paradox Brewery’s Helles LagerNorth Hudson, New York — Paradox Brewery has proudly earned the Gold Medal in the Light Lager category at the prestigious 2025 New York State Craft Beer Competition, further cementing its reputation as a leader in New York’s craft brewing scene.

The annual competition, judged in early March in Rochester and organized by the New York State Brewers Association, is the largest state-level beer competition in the United States. This year’s event drew over 1,320 beer entries from 207 breweries across New York State. A panel of 75 industry experts evaluated entries across 32 beer style categories.

Paradox Brewery Helles LagerParadox Brewery’s winning entry, its Helles Lager, stood out among a competitive field of light lagers. Known for its clean, balanced flavor and traditional German character, the beer impressed judges with its precision and drinkability.

“Brewing a traditional Helles Lager is one of the most challenging styles to get right,” said Paul Mrocka, Owner of Paradox Brewery. “It requires exacting standards and dedication to technique. This award is a reflection of our team’s passion for honoring classic brewing traditions while pushing for innovation and quality.”

Celebrating Craft Brewing in the Adirondacks
Located in North Hudson, in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, Paradox Brewery is known for crafting high-quality, small-batch beers that reflect the spirit and natural beauty of New York State. Since its founding in 2013, the brewery has focused on producing beers with character, balance, and a sense of place.

The award-winning Helles Lager is now available at the Paradox Brewery taproom, and fans can also purchase it online via ParadoxBrewery.com.

About the New York State Craft Beer Competition
Organized by the New York State Brewers Association, the New York State Craft Beer Competition showcases the best in brewing across the state. Its rigorous judging process provides valuable feedback to brewers and trusted recommendations to beer lovers, recognizing excellence in both classic and contemporary styles.

About Paradox Brewery
Paradox Brewery is an independent craft brewery founded in 2013 in North Hudson, New York. Surrounded by the Adirondacks, Paradox is dedicated to producing innovative yet traditional beers that bring people together. With a growing list of awards and a commitment to quality, Paradox continues to be a standout name in the New York craft beer industry.

Visit ParadoxBrewery.com to learn more about their beers, upcoming events, and to order the gold medal-winning Helles Lager.
Follow @ParadoxBrewery on social media for the latest news and releases.

 

For Brewing fun facts, trivia, movies and more, Click Here.

Brewers Association Names Glitter Beer ‘Official’ Beer Style – April Fools Joke

by

BOULDER, Colorado — April 1, 2019 — The Brewers Association (BA), the not-for-profit trade organization championing America’s small and independent craft brewers, today announced an exciting update to its 2025 Beer Style Guidelines, officially adding Glitter Beer as a new category. This vibrant, eye-catching beer style, which surged in popularity for its shimmering, edible-glitter-infused appearance, is now recognized in response to its growing presence in the craft beer scene.

The BA’s Beer Style Guidelines, updated annually, serve as a key resource for brewers, beer judges, and competition organizers, showcasing the diverse world of craft beer. This rare mid-cycle amendment reflects the rapid rise of Glitter Beer, driven by consumer enthusiasm and widespread adoption by breweries nationwide. “Our guidelines evolve with the industry, and Glitter Beer’s dazzling popularity demanded swift recognition,” said BA spokesperson Lisa Frank. “This addition brings a fun, innovative spark to our competitions and celebrates the creativity of craft brewers.” Starting in 2025, Glitter Beer will be eligible for gold, silver, and bronze medals at prestigious BA events like the Great American Beer Festival and World Beer Cup.

Quantitative Style Statistics
Original Gravity: 1.111 — 1.053
Final Gravity: 1.021 — 0.900
ABV: 13%
IBU: 11-22
SRM: 6-12
Volumes of CO2: 4.98
Apparent Attenuation: 81%

Pairing Suggestions
Peeps
Nicholas Sparks Novels
Mariah Carey’s “Glitter” Soundtrack
Construction paper and glue

More about the The Brewers Association
The Brewers Association (BA), established in 1978, is the not-for-profit trade organization dedicated to promoting and protecting America’s small and independent craft brewers. Based in Boulder, Colorado, the BA supports over 9,000 craft breweries through advocacy, education, and resources like the annual Beer Style Guidelines, fostering innovation and quality in the industry. It organizes prestigious events such as the Great American Beer Festival and World Beer Cup, celebrating the diversity and creativity of craft beer. Committed to community and sustainability, the BA empowers brewers to thrive in a competitive market while championing the cultural and economic impact of craft brewing across the United States.

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

The Top 10 Drunkest Cities in America

by

Based on available data, the “drunkest” cities in the United States are primarily identified by the percentage of adults who report excessive drinking, defined by the CDC as binge drinking (four or more drinks for women, five or more for men on a single occasion) or heavy drinking (eight or more drinks per week for women, 15 or more for men). Here’s a rundown of the top cities, drawing from recent analyses, with a focus on Wisconsin’s dominance and other notable areas:

  1. Green Bay, Wisconsin – Frequently cited as the drunkest city, Green Bay tops the list with 26.5% of adults reporting excessive drinking. About 50.5% of driving deaths here involve alcohol, reflecting a strong drinking culture. Wisconsin’s low alcohol taxes and harsh winters are often mentioned as contributing factors.
  2. Eau Claire, Wisconsin – Tied for second with 26.2% of adults drinking excessively. The city’s Midwest location and vibrant bar scene contribute to its ranking.
  3. Appleton, Wisconsin – Also at 26.2% for excessive drinking, Appleton is another Wisconsin city with a robust drinking culture, bolstered by its brewery presence.
  4. Madison, Wisconsin – With 25.5% of adults reporting excessive drinking and 38.7% of driving deaths involving alcohol, Madison, home to the University of Wisconsin, ranks high due to its college-town vibe.
  5. Fargo, North Dakota – The only non-Wisconsin city in the top five, Fargo has 25.2% of adults drinking excessively, with 29.5% of driving deaths alcohol-related. Its 63 drinking establishments add to the scene.
  6. La Crosse, Wisconsin – Boasting more bars per capita than any other U.S. city, La Crosse has 25.1% of adults reporting excessive drinking.
  7. Fond du Lac, Wisconsin – With 24.6% of adults drinking excessively and 25.9% of driving deaths involving alcohol, this city continues Wisconsin’s trend.
  8. Milwaukee, Wisconsin – Often cited as a top contender, Milwaukee has an excessive drinking rate of 24.6%. Its beer gardens and major breweries, combined with low alcohol taxes, make it a drinking hub.
  9. Ames, Iowa – Home to Iowa State University, Ames has 24.4% of adults reporting excessive drinking, though its alcohol-related driving deaths are lower at 11.8%.
  10. Minneapolis, Minnesota – With a 23.5% excessive drinking rate, Minneapolis ranks high globally as a drinking city, with 1,100 alcohol-related deaths in Minnesota in 2021.

Additional Notable Cities:
Iowa City, Iowa (23.1% excessive drinking) and Grand Forks, North Dakota (24.2%) also rank high, reflecting the Midwest’s heavy drinking trend.
Boston, Massachusetts (23.1%), Buffalo, New York (22.8%), and Chicago, Illinois (22.7%) round out top lists, with Boston’s bar culture and Chicago’s nightlife contributing.
Sacramento, California (21.6%) and New Orleans, Louisiana (21.9%) appear in some rankings, with New Orleans’ Mardi Gras and Sacramento’s proximity to wine regions playing roles.

Why Wisconsin Dominates:
Wisconsin claims seven of the top 10 drunkest cities, with factors like low alcohol taxes, a strong brewing history (think Milwaukee’s beer legacy), and cultural influences from German and Polish settlers. The state’s 26.2% excessive drinking rate is the highest in the U.S., and its cities like Green Bay, Eau Claire, and Appleton consistently top rankings. Harsh winters and a festival-heavy culture (Milwaukee’s “city of festivals”) further fuel the trend.

Top 10 Cities in the United States to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day

by

Top 10 Cities in the United States to celebrate St. Patrick's DayHistory of Saint Patrick’s Day
Since the mid-20th century, St. Patrick’s Day has evolved from a primarily religious and cultural observance into a global celebration of Irish identity, driven by commercialization, tourism, and the Irish diaspora. In Ireland, the holiday shifted significantly after the 1930s, when Dublin’s parade grew into a national event to promote Irish pride. By the 1990s, the Irish government launched the St. Patrick’s Festival, a multi-day event in Dublin featuring music, dance, and cultural showcases, capitalizing on tourism and global interest. This marked a turning point, as Ireland embraced the holiday’s economic potential, with over 1 million visitors attending Dublin’s festivities annually by the 2010s.

In the United States, where Irish-Americans number over 30 million, St. Patrick’s Day became a cultural juggernaut. Cities like New York, Boston, and Chicago amplified traditions—New York’s parade, the world’s largest, draws up to 2 million spectators, while Chicago’s river-dyeing, started in 1962, became a viral symbol. The holiday also grew commercial, with green beer, shamrock merchandise, and leprechaun imagery fueling a multi-billion-dollar industry. However, this commercialization sparked debates, with critics arguing it perpetuates stereotypes, like drunkenness, over authentic Irish culture.

Globally, St. Patrick’s Day expanded through “greening” initiatives, where landmarks like the Sydney Opera House or the Colosseum turn green, a campaign Ireland began in 2010 to boost tourism. By 2025, over 70 countries host parades or events, from Tokyo to Buenos Aires, reflecting the diaspora’s reach and globalization’s impact. Yet, tensions persist—some Irish communities push back against caricatures, advocating for focus on traditional music, language, and history. The modern holiday, while festive, balances cultural pride with the challenges of commodification and identity.

Top 10 U.S. Cities to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day(according to US News and World Report)
1. Boston, MA
2. Savannah, GA
3. New London, Wisconsin
4. Chicago
5. Hot Springs, Arkansas
6. North Kansas City, Missouri
7. New York City
8. O’Neill, Nebraska
9. Enterprise, Alabama
10. New Orleans

Boston, Massachusetts
Boston, with its deep Irish-American heritage, is a St. Patrick’s Day powerhouse. The South Boston parade, one of the oldest in the U.S., fills the streets with bagpipes, colorful floats, and cheering crowds. Iconic pubs like The Black Rose pour green beer and serve corned beef, while céilí dances and cultural events along the Irish Heritage Trail add authenticity. The city’s vibrant community spirit and historical ties to Ireland create an electric, welcoming atmosphere, making Boston a top spot to celebrate March 17.

Savannah, Georgia
Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day is a Southern gem, hosting one of the largest parades in the region since 1824. The historic district, with its oak-lined squares, becomes a sea of green as floats and bands march through. River Street’s open-container vibe fuels a laid-back party with live music and Irish whiskey. The mild March weather and Savannah’s charm—think cobblestone streets and warm hospitality—make it an inviting, festive destination for a unique St. Patrick’s Day experience.

New London, Wisconsin
New London, Wisconsin, offers a quirky, small-town St. Patrick’s Day with its “Shamrock Club” celebration, one of the state’s oldest. The town transforms into “New Dublin” for the week, hosting a parade with Irish dancers, pipe bands, and leprechaun-themed floats. Local taverns like Finn’s Pub serve green beer, and community events like Irish breakfasts foster a cozy, family-friendly vibe. New London’s heartfelt, grassroots festivities make it a charming choice for an authentic, low-key holiday.

Chicago, Illinois
Chicago’s St. Patrick’s Day is iconic, thanks to the surreal tradition of dyeing the Chicago River emerald green, a spectacle that draws thousands. The downtown parade bursts with Irish pride, featuring shamrock-decorated floats and bagpipers, while South Side Irish neighborhoods like Beverly host their own marches. Pubs citywide pour green beer and Irish stout, keeping the party going late. Chicago’s bold, festive energy and unique traditions make it a must-visit for an unforgettable March 17.

Hot Springs, Arkansas
Hot Springs, Arkansas, claims the “World’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade,” a 98-foot spectacle on Bridge Street that’s as whimsical as it gets. Expect Elvis impersonators, green-clad marchers, and a dose of Southern eccentricity. The town’s historic bathhouses and lively bars, like Maxine’s Live, serve up green cocktails and Irish tunes. Hot Springs’ compact, quirky celebration, paired with its spa-town charm, offers a fun, offbeat St. Patrick’s Day experience.

North Kansas City, Missouri
North Kansas City’s St. Patrick’s Day shines with its Snake Saturday Parade, a beloved local tradition blending Irish and reptilian themes to celebrate St. Patrick’s snake-banishing legend. Floats, bagpipers, and green-bedecked crowds fill the streets, while breweries like Cinder Block tap special green beers. The community’s laid-back, Midwestern warmth and creative spin on the holiday make North Kansas City a delightful, under-the-radar spot for March 17 festivities.

New York City, New York
New York City’s St. Patrick’s Day is a global spectacle, anchored by the world’s oldest and largest parade, running since 1762 along Fifth Avenue. Green-clad crowds pass St. Patrick’s Cathedral as bagpipes blare and Irish dancers perform. From Hell’s Kitchen pubs to cultural events like step-dancing showcases, the city pulses with energy. NYC’s sheer scale, diversity, and Irish pride deliver a St. Patrick’s Day that’s both historic and exhilarating.

O’Neill, Nebraska
O’Neill, Nebraska, dubbed the “Irish Capital of Nebraska,” delivers a heartfelt St. Patrick’s Day rooted in its Irish settler history. The town paints a shamrock on its main intersection and hosts a lively parade with tractors, horses, and green floats. Local bars like The Mint serve Irish coffee, and community events include Irish music and dance. O’Neill’s small-town charm and proud heritage make it a cozy, authentic spot for a traditional celebration.

Enterprise, Alabama
Enterprise, Alabama, hosts a surprisingly spirited St. Patrick’s Day with its “World’s Smallest St. Patrick’s Day Parade,” a tongue-in-cheek event featuring a single kilted marcher and a bagpiper. The town leans into the fun with green-themed festivals, live music, and pub crawls at spots like The Barrel. Enterprise’s warm weather and quirky, community-driven vibe offer a lighthearted, sunny twist on the holiday, perfect for a relaxed celebration.

New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans brings its Mardi Gras flair to St. Patrick’s Day, with the Irish Channel parade tossing cabbages, carrots, and beads from vibrant floats. The French Quarter buzzes with green cocktails, Irish jigs, and block parties, while bars like Parasol’s serve Guinness and po’boys. The city’s love for revelry, combined with its Irish-American roots, creates a raucous, soulful celebration. New Orleans’ festive chaos makes it an unbeatable St. Patrick’s Day destination.

 

 

 

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