In the first issue of Craft Beer & Brewing Magazine®, Brian Strumke explained how his days as DJ Stillwater inspired the Stillwater Artisanal Ales brand. In the second issue, Ninaski Brewing gave us the skinny on the brand new recording studio they’re building at the brewery in Eugene, Oregon. And I know all of you homebrewers are jamming out while you’re mashing in.
This festival season celebrates the beer lovers’ affinity for live music with gatherings across the country that feature local bands to pair with local brews. Here are a few to put on the calendar.
Lake Dillon Beer Festival
Saturday, June 21
Host: Dillon Business Association
Dillon, Colorado
This is a favorite festival among Coloradoans, who can enjoy more than twenty-five state-brewed beers alongside bluegrass music, reggae rock, and acoustic Americana tunes, among other live music offerings. Local brewery Pug Ryan’s hosts the after party for this festival— featuring, of course, more live music.
Culture Jam
Saturday, June 21
Host: Left Hand Brewing Company
Longmont, Colorado
Here’s another Colorado music festival that is happening at the same time. It will feature three-time Grammy winning Ozomatli, as well as performances by the band Making Moves, a Brazilian Samba crew, and a traditional Folklorico dance group. Throughout the evening, graffiti artist Gamma Acosta will create a live work of art that will go up for auction. The auction and some of the festival proceeds will benefit local charities.
Gnawbrew Beer Art and Music Festival
Saturday, July 26
Host: eXplore Brown County at Valley Branch Retreat
Nashville, Indiana
(pictured at top)
Any festival hosted at a paintball retreat (yes, those exist) is bound to be a good time, especially when it features local artists and musicians—Hoosier musicians, no less. Cap it off with a night of camping.
Mammoth Festival of Beers & Bluesapalooza
Thursday, July 31 - Sunday, August 3
Host: Sam’s Wood Site at Mammoth Lakes Resort
Mammoth, California
Beer and blues together is an old tradition in Mammoth, California. This four-day festival is celebrating its nineteenth year with a rockstar lineup of performers, including Taj Mahal Trio, John Hiatt and The Combo, and Ana Popović.
HopString Fest
Saturday, August 23
Host: Mike and Kathy Trizna at Silver Cross Field
Joliet, Illinois
Hopstring Fest was launched by Mike and Kathy Trizna, the owners of the Chicago Street Pub. It’s a celebration of Midwestern craft beer and roots rock music that features three stages and more than twelve hours of live music.
Annapolis Beer & Music Festival
Saturday, September 13
Host: Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium
Annapolis, Maryland
Here’s a beer festival that encourages bringing your own chair. Not only can you post up and listen to live music at the Pilsner stage, but also there are more than 100 beers to try, cooking with beer seminars, craft exhibitors, and samples of fresh Maryland seafood.