top of page
Here are 10 of the Best Craft Beer Festivals in the U.S.
January 22nd 2024
Beer festivals in the United States have become vibrant celebrations of craft brewing, attracting beer enthusiasts from all walks of life. These festivals typically showcase a diverse range of local and regional breweries, offering attendees the opportunity to sample a vast array of unique and innovative beer styles. From hop-forward IPAs to rich stouts and sour ales, these events provide a platform for brewers to showcase their creativity and passion for the craft.
One of the defining features of beer festivals in the US is the sense of community they foster. Attendees gather to share their love for craft beer, engage in lively conversations with brewers, and connect with fellow enthusiasts.
Beyond the beer tastings, many festivals incorporate live music, food trucks, and educational sessions, creating a well-rounded experience that goes beyond just sipping on brews. Whether held in sprawling urban parks or charming small-town settings, these festivals have become an integral part of American beer culture, celebrating the diversity and craftsmanship within the thriving craft brewing scene.
1. Great American Beer Festival (Denver, CO, October)
This legendary festival is a celebration of all things craft beer. The Great American Beer Festival competition provides a stage where top-quality beers from all corners of the nation are meticulously evaluated, each striving for the prestigious title of ‘Best in Class. Dive into the ultimate beer fiesta, boasting 2000+ brews from hundreds of breweries. From crisp lagers to barrel-aged sours and juicy IPAs, there's a brew to tantalize every taste bud.
2. Oktoberfest Zinzinnati (Cincinnati, OH, September)
Transport yourself to a Bavarian wonderland at the largest craft beer festival in the country. This 4 day beer fest, held annually at Sawyer Point Park, hosts over 700,000 beer fans over the course of the festival. Get ready to slip into your lederhosen, sample from a vast array of craft beer, and groove to oompah bands. Bring your appetite and feast on bratwurst, sauerkraut balls, soft pretzels, strudel, Limburger cheese and much more. Prost!
3. Big Texas Beer Fest (Dallas, TX, April)
Everything's bigger in Texas, including this beer behemoth. This Fest in Dallas is a craft beer extravaganza that stirs excitement every April. This event at the Fair Park Automobile Building, will overflow with more than 450 brews curated from 90+ breweries. Attendees can indulge in both Texan favorites and exotic imports, satisfying their thirst for diverse flavors. Alongside the abundant selection of beers, local food trucks will cater to adventurous appetites, live music will set toes tapping, and a vintage arcade will evoke nostalgic joy.
4. Oregon Brewers Festival (Portland, OR, July)
The Oregon Brewers Festival stands as one of the longest-standing and most cherished craft beer festivals in the nation, boasting its position as one of the largest of its kind. Situated along the west bank of the Willamette River, framed by the impressive backdrop of majestic Mt. Hood, this festival serves as the perfect gathering place for beer enthusiasts. Exuding a relaxed atmosphere and featuring a diverse array of craft beers and ciders, the event captures the essence of Portland's spirit.
5. Milwaukee Brew Fest (Milwaukee, WI, July)
Wisconsin's premier single-day craft beer tasting extravaganza, hosted against the picturesque backdrop of McKinley Park on Milwaukee's lakefront. With general admission, attendees can indulge in unlimited tastings of beers, ciders, and meads from a diverse selection of over 100 breweries. This experience also includes a commemorative glass, live music, and the convenience of accessing various food vendors.
6. Minnesota Craft Beer Festival (Minneapolis, MN, April)
Dive into the vibrant Minnesota craft beer culture at the Minneapolis Convention Center. Experience over 100 local breweries showcasing a diverse selection of 400 unique beers, featuring exclusive limited releases and taproom-only specialties. From refreshing IPAs and rich porters to smoky stouts and fruity sours, explore a wide range of flavors while connecting with fellow beer enthusiasts and enjoying live music.
7. Atlanta Summer Beer Fest (Atlanta, GA, June)
Experience Southern charm and stellar brews in this historic city. This beer festival will showcase an extensive selection of more than 150 beers, highlighting both the offerings from local Atlanta breweries and outstanding selections from across the nation. Additionally, attendees can enjoy a variety of beverage options, including 25+ wine choices, mimosas, ready-to-drink cocktails (RTDs), and hard seltzers.
8. San Diego Brew Fest (San Diego, CA, January)
This craft beer festival hosted at Preble Field at Liberty Station, stands as the premier event of its kind on the West Coast. Over the course of three days, enthusiasts of craft beer can explore samplings of over 200 beer, mead, and cider varieties originating from almost 70 breweries. With live music and delicious food offerings to complement the experience, the San Diego Brew Fest promises an unforgettable celebration of beer culture.
9. Florida Craft Brew & Wing Fest (Vero Beach, FL, February)
The finest celebration of taste in Vero Beach. With over 80 breweries gathering from across the state, indulge in the diverse offerings of hundreds of distinctive craft beers. From crisp IPAs to smoky stouts and refreshing sours, your taste buds are in for a delightful journey.
10. LA Beer Fest (Los Angeles, CA, September)
The LA Fall Beer Festival is an essential experience for beer enthusiasts, featuring more than 80 breweries presenting an impressive selection of 300+ distinctive beers to delight your taste buds. Explore a varied array of local favorites and undiscovered treasures, indulging in everything from refreshing pilsners to robust imperial stouts – an extraordinary journey for your adventurous palate.
Button Below to See All Festivals in Every State
bottom of page