Beer Festivals in America

In the January/February 2010 issue, writer Joshua Bernstein covers five up-and-coming beer scenes making waves across America. Portland, Maine; Reno, Nevada; Atlanta, Georgia; Austin, Texas, and Minneapolis/St Paul, Minnesota make the list, showcasing an impressive array of breweries, pubs, beer shops and general beer geekery. And, of course, where these things exist, so do events to bring all of the enthusiasm together in one place. Here’s a list of festivals to check out if you happen to be in any of these fab five cities.

MAINE BREWERS FESTIVAL

Now entering its 17th year, the festival—held at downtown Portland, Maine’s Expo Center—focuses exclusively on Maine-brewed beers.

EAST ATLANTA BEER FESTIVAL

The community-minded springtime celebration in Atlanta features more than 120 national and international beers, with funds raised to support area nonprofits.

CANFEST: RENO INTERNATIONAL CANNED BEER FESTIVAL

America’s first and only canned-beer festival features the brightest aluminum offerings from breweries like Oskar Blues, Maui Brewing and New Belgium.

AUTUMN BREW REVIEW

The Minnesota Craft Brewer’s Guild’s fall hullabaloo (held at the historic Grain Belt Brewery complex) mixes local and national brews with bands, bagpipers and seminars.

FALL BEER FESTIVAL

The Flying Saucer crew commandeers a local park in Austin, Texas, putting up tents offering rare releases, Texas suds, cask ales and plenty of brats and Bavarian pretzels.