Wednesday, December 31, 2014

In memory of those lost in 2014

I've always have loved this quote and use it again this year: Be still sad heart and cease repining; Behind the clouds the sun is shining, Thy fate is the common fate of all, Into each life a little rain must fall, Some days must be dark and dreary. ~ Longfellow

Each year at this time, I take a moment to reflect back upon the year and notable men and ladies of the industry that were lost in the course of the year. Naturally, I wish for the list to be as short as possible, but the inevitability of life and death means that will not always be true. Capturing and helping to remember the lives and significant contributions of these individuals to the beer industry actually turns out to be one of my favorite things of the year that I share with you all.

In 2014, I've only found one name on my running list of those dearly departed to share with you and he was a giant in the industry.

Jack Joyce, founder of Rogue Brewery in Oregon all the way back in 1988, passed away in May 2014 from a heart attack at the age of 71. Here is some of what you should know about him from Jay Brooks, Portland Business Journal, Oregon Live, Statesman Journal, Jeff Alworth, and Washington Beer Blog.

From past years:
2013

2012

2011

2010

2009

2008

2007


Tuesday, December 23, 2014

Weekly Beer Calendar Update: December 25 - January 1

I'm going to go ahead and get this out to you a bit earlier than the typical Thursday morning release, since I feel you may have other things on your mind Christmas morning. This weekly edition laps over into New Year's Day with some great options for starting off the new year on the right foot and with the right beer. Here's wishing you, your family, and your friends a peaceful and relaxing Christmas, Boxing Day, Kwanzaa, and New Year's celebration with a great beer in hand.

As you review beer events, don't forget PhillyTapFinder.com. They continue to host an impressive listing of beer event draft lists to help better inform your beer event planning.

Click through here for a look at the full monthly calendar of beer events around the Philadelphia region.

Boyertown, Pa.
Sat. 12/27; 11:30 a.m. - Hoppy Holidays at Union Jack's On The Manatawny ($PAYG to celebrate the holiday season with mouth-puckering hops.)

Burlington, NJ
Wed. 12/31; 9 p.m.-1 a.m. - Craft Beer New Years at Geraghty's Pub ($55 for a 4 hour open bar with 14 rotating taps, a buffet, DJ, champagne toast at midnight, and all sorts of party favors and giveaways.)

Kennett Square, Pa.
Wed. 12/31; 5 p.m. - NYE at 2SP at Two Stones Pub ($39 for a food package and then ask your server to help with beer pairings at your choosing.)

Lancaster, Pa.
Fri. 12/26; 5 p.m. - Beer Geek Christmas at Hunger N Thirst ($PAYG for some rare and interesting kegs to celebrate our love of craft beer and the culture surrounding it.)
Wed. 12/31; 10 p.m. - New Year's Eve Party at Hunger N Thirst ($75 for a DJ, hors d'oeuvres, a champagne toast, and open bar.)

Lititz, Pa.
Wed. 12/31; 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. - New Year's Eve Party at Bulls Head Public House ($90 for hors d'oeurves, craft beer, liquor, & wine, and a live band.)

Newark, Del.
Wed. 12/31; 5 p.m. - NYE at 2SP at Two Stones Pub ($39 for a food package and then ask your server to help with beer pairings at your choosing.)

Paoli, Pa.
Fri. 12/26 - AleSmith Brewery at TJ's ($PAYG for AleSmith IPA, Horny Devil, Grand Cru, Evil Dead Red, Winter YuleSmith, Speedway Stout, and Wee Heavy.)

Philadelphia, Pa.
Thu. 12/25; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. - Christmas Day Brunch at Hop Angel Brauhaus ($PAYG for a suitably festive brunch menu.)
Fri. 12/26 - Boxing Day Beer Festival at Memphis Taproom ($PAYG for some of the best holiday and seasonal ales from around the world. We're proud to celebrate the traditional spirit of Boxing Day by helping our neighbors in need by collecting non-perishable (canned and boxed) foods for Philabundance. Plus, $1 from every draft beer sold will be donated to Share Our Strength.)
Sat. 12/27; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. - Italian Beer School at Philly Beer School ($56.98 for an education in the fastest growing high-quality beer region in the world with beers rarely seen outside of Italy.)
Sun. 12/28; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. - Winter Beer Festival at World Cafe Live ($40 for the opportunity to sample the offerings of over 40 breweries and live music from The Whiskeyhickon Boys.)
Wed. 12/31; 7 p.m. - New Year's Eve at Devil's Den ($PAYG to ring in the New Year with great food, beer, friends, and a complimentary champagne or Barren Hill beer toast.)
Wed. 12/31; 7 p.m. - New Year's Eve at Old Eagle Tavern ($PAYG to ring in the New Year with great food, beer, friends, and a complimentary champagne or Barren Hill beer toast.)
Wed. 12/31; 9 p.m.-1 a.m. - New Year's Eve Silvester Party at Brauhaus Schmitz ($125 for a four-hour top shelf open bar with exclusive winter German imports, live entertainment, and a grand buffet.)
Wed. 12/31; 6:30 p.m. - New Year's Eve Dinner at Monk's Cafe ($75 for a four-course dinner paired with festive ales. This will give you plenty of time to ring in the New Year at your friend's party. We'll even provide you with hats and noisemakers on your way out the door.)
Wed. 12/31; 8 p.m. - New Year's Eve Beer Bash at Strangelove's ($125 for a night of great food and spectacular beer.)
Wed. 12/31; 9 p.m. - New Year's Eve Dinner at Monk's Cafe ($125 for six courses of amazing food paired with stellar beers. We'll have a Malhuer Brut toast at Midnight. Hat, noisemakers, and fun.)
Thu. 1/1; 11 a.m. - New Year's Day at Devil's Den ($PAYG as you strut with the Mummers down Broad and warm up by the fireplace with a Yards draft.)
Thu. 1/1; 12 p.m. - Sixth Anniversary Beer Bash at Local 44 ($PAYG for a full brunch menu served all day and a special anniversary draft list.)
Thu. 1/1; 12 p.m.-ish - New Year's Day at Monk's Cafe ($PAYG for a cash bar for lots of big, malty beers on tap.)

Wayne, Pa.
Fri. 12/26 - Bell's Tap Takeover at Teresa's Next Door ($PAYG for a few great Bell's rarities and some classics as well. A firkin or two may even show up as well.)

Wilmington, Del.
Wed. 12/31; 5 p.m. - NYE at 2SP at Two Stones Pub ($39 for a food package and then ask your server to help with beer pairings at your choosing.)



Thursday, December 18, 2014

Weekly Beer Calendar Update: December 18 - December 24

Not much left to this holiday season except some last-minute beer purchases. Plenty to hold your interest as this year of 2014 quickly runs out.

As you review beer events, don't forget PhillyTapFinder.com. They continue to host an impressive listing of beer event draft lists to help better inform your beer event planning.

Click through here for a look at the full monthly calendar of beer events around the Philadelphia region.

Ambler, Pa.
Tue. 12/23; 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. - Night Before Christmas at Forest & Main ($PAYG for a holiday poem reading for the family at 5 p.m. and a raucous adult version of the poem, mulled wine, and our yearly "Squeeb" chant at 10 p.m.)

Downingtown (and Parkesburg), Pa.
Thu. 12/18; 6:30 p.m. - Holiday Beer Dinner at Victory Brewing Company ($65 for a five-course meal served with Winter Cheers, Biere de Mars, Hop Ranch, Old Horizontal, and Earth & Flame.)
Sat. 12/20; 2 p.m.-5:30 p.m. - Parkesburg Brewery Tour at Victory Brewing Company ($58 for the final Parkesburg bus tour before construction of the brewpub begins.)

Exton, Pa.
Fri. 12/19; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. - Friday Night Tasting at Exton Beverage ($Free tasting samples of beers from Stoudts.)
Tue. 12/23; 1 p.m.-3 p.m. - Beer Tasting at Exton Beverage ($Free tasting samples of beers from Widmer.)

Lafayette Hill, Pa.
Sun. 12/21; 11 a.m.-2 p.m. - Brunch with Santa at Barren Hill Tavern & Brewery ($PAYG as Santa and Mrs. Claus will be here for holiday fun for the kids. Beer and Mimosas for the parents.)

Lancaster, Pa.
Fri. 12/19; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. - Winston Churchill Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($PAYG for the release of this traditional English-style Barleywine with a smoky malt sweetness.)
Fri. 12/19 - Newport Storm Launch Party and Tap Takeover at Federal Taphouse ($PAYG for cool giveaways, a chance to meet the reps, and to try some of these amazing New England brews including "14" an Anniversary ale brewed with snow.)

Lansdale, Pa.
Thu. 12/18; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. - The Twelve Geese of Christmas at Blue Dog ($PAYG for great beer, great food, and holiday camaraderie. Bourbon County Stout will be available in '13 and '14.)

Limerick, Pa.
Thu. 12/18; 6 p.m.-10 p.m. - Yuletide One On Night at Craft Ale House ($PAYG to hang with Gary and crew with lots of Tröegs on tap.)

Malvern, Pa.
Thu. 12/18; 4:30 p.m. - Beer Sampling at Wegmans ($Free tasting samples of beers from Yards.)

Newtown, Pa.
Thu. 12/18; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. - Boston Tea Party at Isaac Newton's ($PAYG as Tyler Burton from Sam Adams and Sean Hamel from Harpoon will here to tap a full list of each brewery's beers including Harpoon's Czernobog Russian Imperial Stout and Sam Adams' Thirteenth Hour.)

Paoli, Pa.
Thu. 12/18; 4 p.m.-8 p.m. - A Hardywood Christmas at TJ's ($PAYG for Gingerbread Stout, Bourbon GBS (Pending Arrival), Farmhouse Pumpkin, Hull Melon Saison, The Great Return, Hardywood Pils, and Hardywood Singel.)

Parkesburg, Pa.
Fri. 12/19; 6:30 p.m. - Holiday Beer Dinner at Victory Brewing Company ($75 for a five-course meal served with Hip-Czech Lager, Winter Cheers, Hop Ranch, Helios, Moving Parts 02, and Earth & Flame.)

Philadelphia, Pa.
Thu. 12/18; 7 p.m.-8 p.m. - Theology On Tap at Hop Angel Brauhaus ($PAYG for drinks, community, and conversation.)
Thu. 12/18; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. - Mad Elf Night at Hop Angel Brauhaus ($PAYG for two kegs of this elusive trickster.)
Fri. 12/19; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. - Friday Night Tasting at Bell Beverage ($Free tasting samples of beers from Founders.)
Fri. 12/19; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Beer Sampling at The Foodery (Rittenhouse) ($Free tasting samples of beers from Yards.)
Sat. 12/20; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. - LLS Ugly Sweater Holiday Party at City Tap House (Logan) ($PAYG in support of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.)
Sat. 12/20; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. - Have a Beer With Santa at Hop Angel Brauhaus ($PAYG for Sly Fox Christmas Ale, Goose Island Christmas Ale, Evil Genius Naughty or Nice, and many more.)
Sun. 12/21; 12 p.m. - Ninkasi Tap Invasion at Bishop's Collar ($PAYG for Total Domination, Tricerahops, Vanilla Oatis, Believer Double Red, Lux, and Dawn of the Red.)
Sun. 12/21; 5 p.m.-10 p.m. - Festivus at The Grey Lodge ($PAYG for a traditional, old fashioned Festivus with all the trimmings including the beautiful unadorned aluminum pole.)
Sun. 12/21; 9 p.m. - Ugly Christmas Sweater Karaoke at Varga Bar ($PAYG as Miles Moser of Brooklyn Brewery and Joanna Manzo of Smuttynose are gonna rock your world.)
Tue. 12/23; 7 p.m. - Hanukkah with He'brew at Devil's Den ($PAYG to celebrate the 8 nights of Chanukah with 8 beers from He'Brew Brewing Company. There will be dreidels, gelt, latkes, and more.)

Phoenixville, Pa.
Fri. 12/19; 11:30 a.m. - Third Friday Firkin Fest at Sly Fox Brewing Company ($PAYG for the mainstay Bitter plus one or two other casks on the hand pumps.)
Fri. 12/19; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. - Ugly Sweater Party at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($PAYG for the release of Ugly Sweater, our popular Winter Warmer ale. The best of the worst ugly sweaters will win prizes.)

West Chester, Pa.
Thu. 12/18; 4 p.m.-7 p.m. - Free Tasting at Goshen Beverage ($Free tasting samples of beers from Pilsner Urquell.)
Fri. 12/19; 4 p.m.-6:30 p.m. - Free Tasting at Goshen Beverage ($Free tasting samples of beers from Red Hook and Widmer.)



Thursday, December 11, 2014

Weekly Beer Calendar Update: December 11 - December 17

Ho Ho Ho. How's your holiday shopping coming along? More importantly, how is your holiday beer drinking coming along? Plenty to choose from again this week.

As you review beer events, don't forget PhillyTapFinder.com. They continue to host an impressive listing of beer event draft lists to help better inform your beer event planning.

Click through here for a look at the full monthly calendar of beer events around the Philadelphia region.

Ewing, NJ
Fri. 12/12; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. - River Horse Cask Festival at River Horse Brewing Company ($15 + $PAYG for 17 different variations on our regular beers, plus this will be the first time our seasonal Oatmeal Milk Stout will be available this year, as well as our next installment of the Brewer's Reserve Series, a Baltic Porter.)

Exton, Pa.
Fri. 12/12; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. - Friday Night Tasting at Exton Beverage ($Free tasting samples of beers from Lagunitas.)

Hulmeville, Pa.
Thu. 12/11; 6 p.m. - Goose Island Night at Hulmeville Inn ($PAYG for Bourbon County Stout, Ogden, Illinois, and Muddy.)

Lafayette Hill, Pa.
Wed. 12/17; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. - Cookie & Beer Pairing at Barren Hill Tavern & Brewery ($PAYG as we will be offering a flight of Barren Hill beers paired with freshly baked cookies from our kitchen.)

Lititz, Pa.
Wed. 12/17; 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. - Goose Island Bourbon County Night at Bulls Head Public House ($PAYG for Bourbon County Stout on tap and Bourbon County Vanilla Rye and Bourbon County Coffee Stout in bottles.)

Maple Shade, NJ
Sat. 12/13; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. - Winter Warmer Release Party at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($PAYG for the release of our most popular spiced beer along with five other unique winter offerings. Come dressed in your ugliest holiday sweater.)

Media, Pa.
Thu. 12/11; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. - Rudolph's Revenge Release Party at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($PAYG for the release of Rudolph's Revenge, an American-style Belgian golden ale.)

Newark, Del.
Mon. 12/15; 6:30 p.m. - Beer Dinner at Two Stones Pub ($TBD for an intimate night of great beer and food.)

Norristown, Pa.
Thu. 12/11; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. - ShawneeCraft Beer Draft Event at Capone's ($PAYG to meet Dave Goldstein and try the special featured ShawneeCraft Sour Kriek, the first time offered on draft.)

North Wales, Pa.
Sat. 12/13; 5 p.m. - Rudolph's Revenge Release Party at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($PAYG for the release of Rudolph's Revenge, an American-style Belgian golden ale.)

Paoli, Pa.
Thu. 12/11; 4 p.m.-8 p.m. - Port Brewing & Lost Abbey Happy Hour at TJ's ($PAYG for Lost Abbey's Devotion, Red Barn, Judgement Day, Ten Commandments, and Merry Taj and Port's Wipeout, Mongo, Shark Attack, Santa's Helper, Older Viscosity, and Bourbon Santa's Helper.)

Philadelphia, Pa.
Thu. 12/11; 6:30 p.m. - Meet The Brewers at Manayunk Brewery & Restaurant ($19.99 for Happy Hour beer tastings, brewery tours with the head brewer, and complimentary hors d'oeuvres.)
Thu. 12/11; 7:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. - Beer & Food Pairing at Philly Beer School ($64.98 to experience and learn about the best ways to pair beer and food.)
Fri. 12/12; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. - Friday Night Tasting at Bell Beverage ($Free tasting samples of beers related to NFC East football cities.)
Fri. 12/12; 5 p.m. - Christmas Extravaganza at Kite & Key ($PAYG as taps will be lined with holiday cheer and of course Santa will be here. But, be warned, this event is not for the kids.)
Fri. 12/12 - Chouffemas at The Belgian Cafe ($PAYG for all things Chouffe to celebrate the holidays.)
Sat. 12/13; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. - Breakfast with Santa at Hop Angel Brauhaus ($PAYG to bring the kids to sit on Santa's lap and a special kinder brunch menu.)
Sat. 12/13; 12 p.m.-3 p.m. - Santa Visits The Bottle Shop at Local 44 Bottle Shop ($PAYG for a good old fashioned opportunity to sit on Santa's lap.)
Sat. 12/13; 2 p.m.-8 p.m. - Have A Happy Hanukkah With He'Brew at The Institute ($PAYG for some amazing He'Brew beers on tap and some traditional tasty food specials to fill your tummy.)
Sat. 12/13; 3 p.m.-5 p.m. - Tröegs Tap Takeover at Field House ($PAYG for eight Tröegs beers on draft including Mad Elf, Blizzard of Hops, and Impending Decent.)
Sat. 12/13; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. - The Stars are Aligned for Staropreman at Hop Angel Brauhaus ($PAYG for Staropreman, an authentic Czech pilsner straight from Prague.)
Mon. 12/15; 6 p.m. - Meet Evolution Brewery at Varga Bar ($PAYG to meet and drink with owner Tom Knorr and the new brewery rep.)
Wed. 12/17; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Blizzard of Hops Firkin Night at Standard Tap ($PAYG for the new winter seasonal Blizzard of Hops via firkin plus the limited Impending Decent.)
Wed. 12/17 - High Gravity at Side Car Bar & Grille ($PAYG for beers from Allagash, Boulevard, Chimay, Founders, Goose Island, Great Divide, Russian River, and Stone.)

Phoenixville, Pa.
Thu. 12/11; 7 p.m. - Allagash Return to the Odyssey at Bistro on Bridge ($PAYG for Allagash's Interlude 2013, Confluence, Odyssey, Hugh Malone, Fluxus, White, Bourbon Barrel Black, James Bean, Victor Ale, Pale Ale, and special limited Currant Affair.)
Fri. 12/12; 11:30 a.m. - 19th Anniversary Party at Sly Fox Brewing Company ($PAYG for a day-long party that will feature 23-plus beers on tap at a time featuring the release of our Anniversary IPA.)

Voorhees, NJ
Thu. 12/11; 4 p.m.-7 p.m. - Rudolph's Revenge Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($PAYG for the release of Rudolph's Revenge, an American-style Belgian golden ale with complex aromas and flavors of grapefruit, spice, and banana with a refreshing hop bitterness.)

West Chester, Pa.
Fri. 12/12; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. - Beer Sampling at Goshen Beverage ($Free tasting samples of beers from Yards.)

Westmont, NJ
Fri. 12/12; 5 p.m. - Mad Elf Party at Pour House ($PAYG for a Tröegs Tap Takeover featuring 2012, 2013, and 2014 Mad Elf and Buddy the Elf will be in the house again.)

Wilmington, Del.
Thu. 12/11; 3 p.m. - SEPTA meets the Trolley at Trolley Tap House ($PAYG as Saucony Creek, Sly Fox, Tröegs, Victory, Weyerbacher, and Yards are all coming with their five brews of choice.)



Thursday, December 04, 2014

Weekly Beer Calendar Update: December 4 - December 10

Santa's everywhere in the coming weeks and so are beer events where you can eat and drink with him. Safe events for the kiddies and debaucherous ones for the adults. Get out there and enjoy.

As you review beer events, don't forget PhillyTapFinder.com. They continue to host an impressive listing of beer event draft lists to help better inform your beer event planning.

Click through here for a look at the full monthly calendar of beer events around the Philadelphia region.

Allentown, Pa.
Sat. 12/6; 12 p.m.-4 p.m. and 5 p.m.-8 p.m. - Fegley's Brew Works Craft Beer Festival at Allentown Brew Works ($10-$45 for craft beer sampling, bountiful buffet filled with brew-pub favorites, beer centric vendors for shopping, and more.)
Wed. 12/10; 5 p.m. - Charity Cask Night at Allentown Brew Works ($PAYG as 100% of cask sales will be donated to LifePath.)

Atlantic City, NJ
Thu. 12/4; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Cape May Tap Takeover at Wingcraft ($PAYG for six Cape May beers and to hang with the staff and brewers.)

Bethlehem, Pa.
Thu. 12/4; 5 p.m. - Charity Cask Night at Bethlehem Brew Works ($PAYG as 100% of cask proceeds will be donated to a local charity.)

Boyertown, Pa.
Sat. 12/6; 11:30 a.m. - The Week After Thanksgiving Strong Ale Fest at Union Jack's On The Manatawny ($PAYG for a dozen or so ales to cloud your mind and your judgement, so give thanks.)

Conshohocken, Pa.
Wed. 12/10; 12 p.m. - Box of Hops Tap Takeover at Fingers Wings and Other Things ($PAYG for the box's Flower Power, Dark Vine, Creeker, and Rustic Harvest along with a couple of other limited release beers from Ithaca.)

Downingtown, Pa.
Sun. 12/7; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. - Brunch with Santa at Victory Brewing Company ($25 adults, $12 children for a special brunch that includes a photo with Santa for the kids.)

Exton, Pa.
Fri. 12/5; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. - Friday Night Tasting at Exton Beverage ($Free tasting samples of beers from Tröegs.)
Wed. 12/10; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. - Beer Dinner at Rino's Restaurant & Pizzeria ($39.95 for a four-course meal featuring Tröegs and its Mad Elf and Blizzard of Hops.)

Hulmeville, Pa.
Thu. 12/4; 6 p.m. - Great Divide Night at Hulmeville Inn ($PAYG for Fresh Hop APA, Hoss, Oak Aged Yeti, Hibernation, and Peche Grand Cru.)

Lafayette Hill, Pa.
Sat. 12/6; 6 p.m. - Holiday Beer Release at Barren Hill Tavern & Brewery ($PAYG for Gingerbread Jesus, a special collaboration with Reverend Kirk Berlenbach of St Timothy's Episcopal Church and a Belgian Dubbel brewed with molasses, ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg.)

Lambertville, Pa.
Mon. 12/8; 7 p.m. - Dogfish Head Beer Dinner at Inn Of The Hawke ($50 for five courses with food and Dogfish Head beer pairings.)

Lancaster, Pa.
Fri. 12/5 - Shipyard Brewing Tap Takeover at Federal Taphouse ($PAYG for limited beers only available here, and a collection of Brewery Reserve barrel-aged special releases as well as cool giveaways and a chance to meet the reps.)

Lansdale, Pa.
Sat. 12/6; 2 p.m. - Last Waltz Release Party at Round Guys Brewing Company ($PAYG for 2013 Last Waltz, 2014 Last Waltz, 2013 Fuzzy Muttness, 2014 Buffalo Trace Bourbon barrel-aged Fuzzy Muttness, and 2013 Captain Blackback.)

Maple Shade, NJ
Fri. 12/5; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. - Om Nom Nom Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($PAYG for an oatmeal cookie in a glass, brewed with oats, cinnamon, whole vanilla beans and 5 pounds per barrel of pureed raisins.)

Media, Pa.
Fri. 12/5; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. - Holiday Ale Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($PAYG for the annual release of this holiday favorite. We'll kick off this release with a special batch of cask-conditioned Holiday Ale.)
Wed. 12/10; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. - Oskar Blues Christmas at Pinocchio's ($PAYG for a lineup of beers from Oskar Blues.)

Millvale, NJ
Sat. 12/6; 12 p.m.-3 p.m. - The Grinch Stole My Eagles Tickets at Glasstown Brewing Company ($PAYG for a scavenger hunt and raffle prizes around the brewery.)

Newark, Del.
Fri. 12/5; 4 p.m.-8 p.m. - Ugly Sweater Party at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($PAYG to celebrate the holiday season with the release of Bad Santa Brown Ale. The best of the worst ugly sweaters will receive a Gap Gift Card. Treat filled Iron Hill pint glass for the first 50 guests to drop off a new, unwrapped toy for Ronald McDonald House Charities.)

Newtown, Pa.
Thu. 12/4; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. - Cape May Brewing Launch Party at Isaac Newton's ($PAYG for a lineup of beers from Cape May Brewing Company as they continue their introduction to Pennsylvania.)

Paoli, Pa.
Mon. 12/1 through Sat. 12/7 - 11th Anniversary Week at TJ's ($PAYG for a week of "pipeline tappings" in no particular order and with no specific times — it's like a pot luck dinner but with beer.)
Wed. 12/10; 4 p.m.-8 p.m. - Southern Tier Happy Hour at TJ's ($PAYG for Southern Tier's Tripel Cafe, Krampus, 2XMas, 2XLive, 2XRye, 2XIPA, Mokah & DeMunck's Holiday Cider, and bottles of rum barrel-aged Pumking.)

Philadelphia, Pa.
Thu. 12/4; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. - Boulder Brewing Happy Hour at Perch Pub ($PAYG for Boulder's Nitro Shake Chocolate Porter, Slope Style Winter IPA, fRYEd Harvest Pale Ale, and Killer Penguin Barleywine.)
Thu. 12/4; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. - Winter Warmer Release Party at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($PAYG for the release of our most popular spiced beer served with a special Penzeys Spices sugar rim.)
Thu. 12/4; 6 p.m.-11 p.m. - DuClaw Tap Takeover at Interstate Drafthouse ($PAYG for Devil's Milk 2013, Devil's Milk 2014, Retribution, Oak Aged Brimstone, and Neon Gypsy.)
Thu. 12/4; 6 p.m. - Toys For Tots Collection at The Bards ($PAYG for a festive night of charity and helping out children in need while enjoying several tasty brews from Yards.)
Thu. 12/4; 7 p.m. - St Nikolaus Day at The Belgian Cafe ($PAYG for five Stoudts beers on tap including a 2013 Double Abbey and 2013 Old Abominable. Our Belsnickel will be there with his very limited spiced dark lager. Meet Carol Stoudt.)
Thu. 12/4; 9 p.m. - Pints Against Humanity at Varga Bar ($PAYG as the freshest SBC drafts will be pouring and cards will be provided. The best cards will be rewarded and the tournament winner will be taking home a deserving prize.)
Fri. 12/5; 1 p.m. - Check Out What Sam's Got at Brü Craft & Wurst ($PAYG for unique beers from Sam Adams including Rebel IPA poured thru a randall, Kosmic Mother Funk, 13th Hour Stout, Black Harbor imperial stout aged in Utopia barrels, and The Vixen chocolate chili bock.)
Fri. 12/5; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. - Friday Night Tasting (Santa Claus beers) @Bell Beverage ($Free tasting samples of Santa Claus themed beers and a special appearance by Joe Sixpack.)
Fri. 12/5; 7 p.m. - DuClaw Colossus at Devil's Den ($PAYG to warm up this winter with one of the biggest beers around — DuClaw Colossus at 17.3% ABV.)
Sat. 12/6; 2:30 p.m.-5 p.m. - Philadelphia Bacon and Beer Festival at 23rd Street Armory ($46.50-$61.50 for creative bacon-based dishes and fine brews.)
Sun. 12/7; 11 a.m. - Allagash Brunch at Sancho Pistola's ($PAYG for a satisfying brunch of good grub and Allagash beers featuring Nancy.)
Sun. 12/7; 11 a.m.-3 p.m. - Brunch with Santa at City Tap House (University City) ($PAYG in support of The Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House. Enjoy brunch with a special kid-friendly menu. Children under 10 eat complimentary and pictures with Santa are included. $10 donation suggested.)
Sun. 12/7; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. - Pop-up Beer Garden at Cottman & Frankford ($PAYG as The Grey Lodge will have a pop-up beer garden at Mayfair's annual Christmas Village and Tree Lighting.)
Sun. 12/7; 7 p.m. - 11th Anniversary Celebration at Good Dog Bar ($PAYG for passed appetizers, souvenir photo booth, dog photo contest winners announced, and raffle prizes to raise funds for Morris Animal Refuge.)
Tue. 12/9; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. - Christmas Bash at National Mechanics ($PAYG for beer-themed ornament giveaways and gingerbread decorating and some delicious brews from Sly Fox and Great Lakes.)
Tue. 12/9; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. - Philly Beer Week Raffle at City Tap House (Logan) ($PAYG for an expenses-paid trip to Brouwerij Hof ten Dormaal to help brew the next great Philly Beer Week Belgo collaboration.)
Tue. 12/9; 7 p.m. - Tom's Annual Holiday Dinner at Monk's Cafe ($125 for a sumptous, six dinner paired with some of the world's best holiday ales.)
Tue. 12/9; 7 p.m. - A Very Merry Goose Island Bourbon County Christmas Dinner at Strangelove's ($60 for an intimate holiday beer dinner featuring Goose Island Bourbon County Stout, Goose Island Bourbon County Barleywine, and Goose Island Bourbon County Coffee Stout. Additional Goose Island drafts will flow all night including Ten Hills Pale Ale, Matilda, and Sofie.)
Wed. 12/10; 7 p.m. - 4 Hands Brewing Brings Cans at Local 44 ($PAYG as 4 Hands Owner Kevin Lemp and the brewers show up for the official Philly launch of 4 Hands beer in cans.)
Wed. 12/10; 7 p.m. - Belgian Beer Dinner at Han Dynasty ($68 for 14 off-menu items and 6 beers.)
Wed. 12/10; 9 p.m. - Varga Girl Calendar Release Party at Varga Bar ($PAYG to meet and drink with the Calendar Girls and a portion of the proceeds go to the U.S.O.)

Phoenixville (and Pottstown), Pa.
Fri. 12/5; 11:30 a.m. - Incubus Friday at Sly Fox Brewing Company ($PAYG for the Belgian-style Tripel that pours until the keg kicks, usually by 7 p.m.)
Fri. 12/5; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. - Milk and Cookies with Santa at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($PAYG to enjoy the Phoenixville Christmas Parade with the release of our English-style Milk Stout.)
Sat. 12/6; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. - Burning of the Phoenix at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($PAYG for the release of Winter Warmer, our medium-bodied dark ale finished with classic winter spices. Featuring "fire"-inspired fare in celebration of the Firebird Festival.)

Sellersville, Pa.
Fri. 12/5; 5 p.m. - Friday Night Beer Tasting at Washington House ($PAYG for a night of holiday-themed beers.)

West Chester, Pa.
Fri. 12/5; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. - Beer Sampling (Flying Fish) at Goshen Beverage ($Free tasting samples of beers from Flying Fish.)
Fri. 12/5; 5 p.m.-9 p.m. - Steal the Cheer at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($PAYG for the release of Scrooge IPA and Winter Warmer and a limited edition Santa beard pint glass.)

Wilmington, Del.
Thu. 12/4; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Tröegs Tap Takeover at Ulysses Gastropub ($PAYG to ring in the Mad Elf.)
Fri. 12/5; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Scrooge IPA Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($PAYG for the release of this American-style IPA with full malt flavor and dry hopped with one pound of hops per barrel for pronounced flavor and bitterness that matches the beer's namesake.)



Monday, December 01, 2014

Beer Calendar: What To Do in December 2014

A bit late here with the monthly calendar but you'll probably understand if you too are coming off a busy holiday weekend. Big, super-huge list here as everyone is putting on a great show of beer to close out a busy 2014. Lots of great ways to pick up a gift for yourself or someone equally deserving. Get out there and enjoy great beer with great friends and family!

The year's going out with a bang and I think I've got a critical mass of most of what's happening in and around the city of brotherly brews. As always, if I'm missing any that you feel should be on here, let me know.


$20 and under, down to and including FREE...Pay As You Go (PAYG) also included here

Philadelphia
Mon. 12/1 - 20th Anniversary Party @Fergie's Pub in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Mon. 12/1 - Fireplace Lighting @Devil's Den in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 12/4 - Cape May Brewing Launch Party @Tria Taproom in Philadelphia, Pa. (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Tue. 12/2 - Are Uinta a trip to Belgium? @Varga Bar in Philadelphia, Pa. (8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 12/3 - Bells of the Season @London Grill in Philadelphia, Pa. (6:30 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 12/4 - Boulder Brewing Happy Hour @Perch Pub in Philadelphia, Pa. (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 12/4 - Winter Warmer Release Party @Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Philadelphia, Pa. (5 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 12/4 - DuClaw Tap Takeover @Interstate Drafthouse in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-11 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 12/4 - Toys For Tots Collection @The Bards in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 12/4 - St Nikolaus Day @The Belgian Cafe in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 12/4 - Pints Against Humanity @Varga Bar in Philadelphia, Pa. (9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 12/5 - Check Out What Sam's Got @Brü Craft & Wurst in Philadelphia, Pa. (1 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 12/5 - Friday Night Tasting (Santa Claus beers) @Bell Beverage in Philadelphia, Pa. (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free)
Fri. 12/5 - DuClaw Colossus @Devil's Den in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sun. 12/7 - Allagash Brunch @Sancho Pistola's in Philadelphia, Pa. (11 a.m.; $PAYG)
Sun. 12/7 - Brunch with Santa @City Tap House (University City) in Philadelphia, Pa. (11 a.m.-3 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sun. 12/7 - Pop-up Beer Garden @Cottman & Frankford in Philadelphia, Pa. (12 p.m.-5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sun. 12/7 - 11th Anniversary Celebration @Good Dog Bar in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Tue. 12/9 - Christmas Bash @National Mechanics in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Tue. 12/9 - Philly Beer Week Raffle @City Tap House (Logan) in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 12/10 - 4 Hands Brewing Brings Cans @Local 44 in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 12/10 - Varga Girl Calendar Release Party @Varga Bar in Philadelphia, Pa. (9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 12/11 - Meet The Brewers @Manayunk Brewery & Restaurant in Philadelphia, Pa. (6:30 p.m.; $19.99)
Fri. 12/12 - Friday Night Tasting (Beers of the NFC East) @Bell Beverage in Philadelphia, Pa. (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free)
Fri. 12/12 - Christmas Extravaganza @Kite & Key in Philadelphia, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 12/12 - Chouffemas @The Belgian Cafe in Philadelphia, Pa. ($PAYG)
Fri. 12/12 through Tue. 12/23 - Twelve Beers of Christmas @Perch Pub in Philadelphia, Pa. ($PAYG)
Sat. 12/13 - Breakfast with Santa @Hop Angel Brauhaus in Philadelphia, Pa. (10 a.m.-2 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 12/13 - Santa Visits The Bottle Shop @Local 44 Bottle Shop in Philadelphia, Pa. (12 p.m.-3 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 12/13 - Have A Happy Hanukkah With He'Brew @The Institute in Philadelphia, Pa. (2 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 12/13 - Tröegs Tap Takeover @Field House in Philadelphia, Pa. (3 p.m.-5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 12/13 - The Stars are Aligned for Staropreman @Hop Angel Brauhaus in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG)
Mon. 12/15 - Meet Evolution Brewery @Varga Bar in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 12/17 - Blizzard of Hops Firkin Night @Standard Tap in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 12/17 - High Gravity @Side Car Bar & Grille in Philadelphia, Pa. ($PAYG)
Thu. 12/18 - Theology On Tap @Hop Angel Brauhaus in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 12/18 - Mad Elf Night @Hop Angel Brauhaus in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 12/19 - Friday Night Tasting (Founders) @Bell Beverage in Philadelphia, Pa. (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free)
Fri. 12/19 - Winston Churchill Beer Release @Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Lancaster, Pa. (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 12/19 - Beer Sampling (Yards) @The Foodery (Rittenhouse) in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free)
Sat. 12/20 - LLS Ugly Sweater Holiday Party @City Tap House (Logan) in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 12/20 - Have a Beer With Santa @Hop Angel Brauhaus in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sun. 12/21 - Festivus @The Grey Lodge in Philadelphia, Pa. (5 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sun. 12/21 - Ugly Christmas Sweater Karaoke @Varga Bar in Philadelphia, Pa. (9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Tue. 12/23 - Hanukkah with He'brew @Devil's Den in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 12/25 - Christmas Day Brunch @Hop Angel Brauhaus in Philadelphia, Pa. (10 a.m.-2 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 12/26 - Sour Wild Funk Brunch @Side Car Bar & Grille in Philadelphia, Pa. (9 a.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 12/26 - Boxing Day Beer Festival @Memphis Taproom in Philadelphia, Pa. ($PAYG)
Wed. 12/31 - New Year's Eve @Devil's Den in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 12/31 - New Year's Eve @Old Eagle Tavern in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 1/1 - New Year's Day @Devil's Den in Philadelphia, Pa. (11 a.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 1/1 - Sixth Anniversary Beer Bash @Local 44 in Philadelphia, Pa. (12 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 1/1 - New Year's Day @Monk's Cafe in Philadelphia, Pa. (12 p.m.-ish; $PAYG)


Philadelphia's close suburbs (within 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Tue. 12/2 - Tröegs with Mad Elf and Nick Johnson @Teresa's Next Door in Wayne, Pa. ($PAYG)
Thu. 12/4 - Great Divide Night @Hulmeville Inn, Hulmeville, Pa. (6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 12/5 - Holiday Ale Beer Release @Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Media, Pa. (5 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 12/5 - Om Nom Nom Beer Release @Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Maple Shade, NJ (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 12/6 - Last Waltz Release Party @Round Guys Brewing Company in Lansdale, Pa. (2 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 12/6 - Holiday Beer Release @Barren Hill Tavern & Brewery in Lafayette Hill, Pa. (6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 12/10 - Box of Hops Tap Takeover @Fingers Wings and Other Things in Conshohocken, Pa. (12 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 12/10 - Oskar Blues Christmas @Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 12/11 - Rudolph’s Revenge Beer Release @Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Voorhees, NJ (4 p.m.-7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 12/11 - Rudolph’s Revenge Release Party @Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Media, Pa. (5 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 12/11 - ShawneeCraft Beer Draft Event @Capone's in Norristown, Pa. (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 12/11 - Goose Island Night @Hulmeville Inn, Hulmeville, Pa. (6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 12/13 - Winter Warmer Release Party @Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Maple Shade, NJ (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 12/13 - Rudolph’s Revenge Release Party @Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in North Wales, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 12/17 - Cookie & Beer Pairing @Barren Hill Tavern & Brewery in Lafayette Hill, Pa. (7 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sun. 12/21 - Brunch with Santa @Barren Hill Tavern & Brewery in Lafayette Hill, Pa. (11 a.m.-2 p.m.; $PAYG)
Tue. 12/23 - Night Before Christmas @Forest & Main in Ambler, Pa. (5 p.m. and 10 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 12/26 - Bell's Tap Takeover @Teresa's Next Door in Wayne, Pa. ($PAYG)


Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other (beyond 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Mon. 12/1 through Sat. 12/7 - 11th Anniversary Week @TJ's in Paoli, Pa. ($PAYG)
Tue. 12/2 - St. James Brown Ale Beer Release @Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Lancaster, Pa. (11 a.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 12/4 - Charity Cask Night (December's beer: TBA) @Bethlehem Brew Works in Bethlehem, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 12/4 - Tröegs Tap Takeover @Ulysses Gastropub in Wilmington, Del. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 12/4 - Cape May Tap Takeover @Wingcraft in Atlantic City, NJ (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 12/4 - Cape May Brewing Launch Party @Isaac Newton's in Newtown, Pa. (7 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 12/5 - Incubus Friday @Sly Fox Brewing Company in Phoenixville and Pottstown, Pa. (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 12/5 - Friday Night Tasting (Tröegs) @Exton Beverage in Exton, Pa. (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free)
Fri. 12/5 - Ugly Sweater Party @Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Newark, Del. (4 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 12/5 - Beer Sampling (Flying Fish) @Goshen Beverage in West Chester, Pa. (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free)
Fri. 12/5 - Milk and Cookies with Santa @Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Phoenixville, Pa. (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 12/5 - Steal the Cheer @Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in West Chester, Pa. (5 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 12/5 - Friday Night Beer Tasting (Holiday Brews) @Washington House in Sellersville, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 12/5 - Scrooge IPA Beer Release @Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Wilmington, Del. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 12/5 - Shipyard Brewing Tap Takeover @Federal Taphouse in Lancaster, Pa. ($PAYG)
Sat. 12/6 - The Week After Thanksgiving Strong Ale Fest at Union Jack's On The Manatawny in Boyertown, Pa. (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 12/6 - The Grinch Stole My Eagles Tickets @Glasstown Brewing Company in Millvale, NJ (12 p.m.-3 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 12/6 - Burning of the Phoenix @Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Phoenixville, Pa. (5 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 12/10 - Southern Tier Happy Hour @TJ's in Paoli, Pa. (4 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 12/10 - Charity Cask Night (December's beer: TBA) @Allentown Brew Works in Allentown, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 12/11 - SEPTA meets the Trolley @Trolley Tap House in Wilmington, Del. (3 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 12/11 - Port Brewing & Lost Abbey Happy Hour @TJ's in Paoli, Pa. (4 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 12/12 - 19th Anniversary Party @Sly Fox Brewing Company in Phoenixville, Pa. (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 12/12 - Friday Night Tasting (Lagunitas) @Exton Beverage in Exton, Pa. (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free)
Fri. 12/12 - Beer Sampling (Yards) @Goshen Beverage in West Chester, Pa. (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free)
Fri. 12/12 - Mad Elf Party @Pour House in Westmont, NJ (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 12/12 - River Horse Cask Festival @River Horse Brewing Company in Ewing, NJ (7 p.m.-10 p.m.; $15 + $PAYG)
Wed. 12/17 - Goose Island Bourbon County Night @Bulls Head Public House in Lititz, Pa. (6 p.m.-7:30 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 12/18 - A Hardywood Christmas @TJ's in Paoli, Pa. (4 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 12/18 - Beer Sampling (Yards) @Wegmans in Malvern, Pa. (4:30 p.m.; $Free)
Thu. 12/18 - Yuletide One On Night @Craft Ale House in Limerick, Pa. (6 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 12/18 - Boston Tea Party @Isaac Newton's in Newtown, Pa. (7 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 12/19 - Third Friday Firkin Fest @Sly Fox Brewing Company in Phoenixville, Pa. (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 12/19 - Friday Night Tasting (Stoudts) @Exton Beverage in Exton, Pa. (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free)
Fri. 12/19 - Ugly Sweater Party @Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Phoenixville, Pa. (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 12/19 - Newport Storm Launch Party and Tap Takeover @Federal Taphouse in Lancaster, Pa. ($PAYG)
Tue. 12/23 - Beer Tasting (Widmer) @Exton Beverage in Exton, Pa. (1 p.m.-3 p.m.; $Free)
Fri. 12/26 - Beer Geek Christmas at Hunger N Thirst in Lancaster, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 12/26 - AleSmith Brewery @TJ's in Paoli, Pa. ($PAYG)
Sat. 12/27 - Hoppy Holidays at Union Jack's On The Manatawny in Boyertown, Pa. (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG)


Events Over $20

Philadelphia
Sat. 12/6 - Philadelphia Bacon and Beer Festival @23rd Street Armory in Philadelphia, Pa. (2:30 p.m.-5 p.m.; $46.50-$61.50)
Tue. 12/9 - Tom's Annual Holiday Dinner @Monk's Cafe in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $125)
Tue. 12/9 - A Very Merry Goose Island Bourbon County Christmas Dinner @Strangelove's in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $60)
Wed. 12/10 - Belgian Beer Dinner @Han Dynasty in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $68)
Thu. 12/11 - Beer & Food Pairing @Philly Beer School in Philadelphia, Pa. (7:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.; $64.98)
Sat. 12/27 - Italian Beer School @Philly Beer School in Philadelphia, Pa. (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $56.98)
Sun. 12/28 - Winter Beer Festival @World Cafe Live in Philadelphia, Pa. (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $40)
Wed. 12/31 - New Year's Eve Dinner @Monk's Cafe in Philadelphia, Pa. (6:30 p.m.; $75)
Wed. 12/31 - New Year's Eve Beer Bash @Strangelove's in Philadelphia, Pa. (8 p.m.; $125)
Wed. 12/31 - New Year's Eve Silvester Party @Brauhaus Schmitz in Philadelphia, Pa. (9 p.m.-1 a.m.; $125)
Wed. 12/31 - New Year's Eve Dinner @Monk's Cafe in Philadelphia, Pa. (9 p.m.; $125)


Philadelphia's close suburbs (within 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)


Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other (beyond 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Tue. 12/2 - Pour It Forward @Pour in Lancaster, Pa. (5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.; $20 + $PAYG)
Sat. 12/6 - Fegley’s Brew Works Craft Beer Festival @Allentown Brew Works in Allentown, Pa. (12 p.m.-4 p.m. and 5 p.m.-8 p.m.; $10-$45)
Sun. 12/7 - Brunch with Santa @Victory Brewing Company in Downingtown, Pa. (10 a.m.-2 p.m.; $25 adults, $12 children)
Mon. 12/8 - Dogfish Head Beer Dinner @Inn Of The Hawke in Lambertville, NJ (7 p.m.; $50)
Wed. 12/10 - Beer Dinner @Rino's Restaurant & Pizzeria in Exton, Pa. (7 p.m.-9 p.m.; $39.95)
Mon. 12/15 - Beer Dinner @Two Stones Pub, Newark, Del. (6:30 p.m.; $TBD)
Thu. 12/18 - Holiday Beer Dinner @Victory Brewing Company in Downingtown, Pa. (6:30 p.m.; $65)
Fri. 12/19 - Holiday Beer Dinner @Victory Brewing Company in Parkesburg, Pa. (6:30 p.m.; $75)
Sat. 12/20 - Parkesburg Brewery Tour @Victory Brewing Company in Downingtown/Parkesburg, Pa. (2 p.m.-5:30 p.m.; $58)
Wed. 12/31 - NYE at 2SP @Two Stones Pub, Newark, Del. (5 p.m.; $39)
Wed. 12/31 - NYE at 2SP @Two Stones Pub, Wilmington, Del. (5 p.m.; $39)
Wed. 12/31 - NYE at 2SP @Two Stones Pub, Kennett Square, Pa. (5 p.m.; $39)
Wed. 12/31 - New Year's Eve Party @Bulls Head Public House in Lititz, Pa. (8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m.; $90)
Wed. 12/31 - Craft Beer New Years @Geraghty's Pub in Burlington, NJ (9 p.m.-1 a.m.; $55)
Wed. 12/31 - New Year's Eve Party at Hunger N Thirst in Lancaster, Pa. (10 p.m.; $75)




Thursday, November 20, 2014

Weekly Beer Calendar Update: November 20 - November 30

Let's get this month of November closed out with a solid 11 days of beer events to be thankful for.

When you plan for beer events, don't forget PhillyTapFinder.com. They continue to host an impressive listing of beer event draft lists to help better inform your beer event planning.

Click through here for a look at the full monthly calendar of beer events around the Philadelphia region.

Boyertown, Pa.
Sat. 11/29; 11:30 a.m. - Thanksgiving Strong Ale Fest at Union Jack's On The Manatawny ($PAYG for a dozen or so ales to cloud your mind and your judgement, so give thanks.)

Ewing, NJ
Fri. 11/21; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. - Oatmeal Milk Stout Special Release at River Horse Brewing Company ($15 for the Oatmeal Milk Stout aged with oak chips, vanilla beans, and raspberries — not available anywhere else.)

Lake Harmony, Pa.
Fri. 11/21; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. - Great Brews Classic Beer Fest - Beer Pairing Dinner at Split Rock Resort ($60 for a five-course dinner with five different beer pairings hand-selected to complement a specially crafted menu.)
Sat. 11/22; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and 5 p.m.-10 p.m. - Great Brews Classic Beer Fest at Split Rock Resort ($10-$60 for the annual beer festival in the Poconos.)

Lititz, Pa.
Mon. 11/24; 5:30 p.m. - Beer School with Ithaca Brewing at Bulls Head Public House ($27.50 for four courses paired with Ithaca's Flower Power IPA, Apricot Wheat, Cascazilla Red Ale, and Embrr Rye Porter.)

Newtown, Pa.
Sun. 11/30; 11:30 a.m. - Kick Off To Christmas (Beers!) at Isaac Newton's ($PAYG for some of the best holiday beers available.)

Oxford, Pa.
Thu. 11/20; 6 p.m. - Keep The Pint Night at The Ugly Mutt ($PAYG for Thomas Jefferson's Tavern Ale, Philadelphia Pale Ale, and Brawler on hand.)

Paoli, Pa.
Thu. 11/20; 4 p.m.-8 p.m. - Bell's Happy Hour at TJ's ($PAYG for a lineup of special beers from Bell's Brewing in Michigan.)
Sat. 11/29 - Small Business Saturday at TJ's ($PAYG for beers from Goose Island.)

Phoenixville, Pa.
Fri. 11/21; 11:30 a.m. - Third Friday Firkin Fest at Sly Fox Brewing Company ($PAYG for a couple of firkins joining the mainstay Bitter on the handpump.)

Philadelphia, Pa.
Thu. 11/20; 4 p.m. - Evil Twin Night at Barcade ($PAYG for 20 beers from Evil Twin.)
Thu. 11/20; 5 p.m. - Friendsgiving at City Tap House ($PAYG for a night of prizes, giveaways, special food, and beers from Allagash and Harpoon. Benefits PAYSA, the Philadelphia Athletic Youth Sports Association.)
Thu. 11/20; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. - Raise A Pint For North Light at Manayunk Brewery & Restaurant ($50-$75 to taste beers from 12 breweries and enjoy food from 12 area restaurants to benefit kids and the North Light Community Center.)
Fri. 11/21; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. - Friday Night Tasting at Bell Beverage ($Free tasting samples of beers from Captain Lawrence and a guest appearance from Joe Sixpack.)
Sat. 11/22; 2 p.m.-6 p.m. - Sam Adams Limited Release Presents the Great Gingerbread Race at Kite & Key ($PAYG for a few pints of limited release Sam Adams and have your team (2-3 people) build the most creative gingerbread house.)
Sat. 11/22; 2 p.m.-8 p.m. - Stoked for Stone at The Institute ($PAYG for a tap takeover featuring Stone Brewing and smoked pork products for some sick pairings.)
Sat. 11/22; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. - Sixpoint Lounge at City Tap House ($PAYG to celebrate Jersey Dan's birthday with an incredible lineup from our friends at Sixpoint Brewery.)
Mon. 11/24; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 Bottle Shop ($Free tasting samples of beer from Firestone Walker.)
Wed. 11/26; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. - Beer Tasting at Craft Beer Outlet ($Free tasting samples of beers from Philadelphia Brewing.)
Wed. 11/26; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. - Firkin Wednesday at Standard Tap ($PAYG for a firkin each of GABF medal winning beers, RedFish and HopFish.)
Wed. 11/26; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. - U Buy The Glass Event at The Abbaye ($PAYG to drink the beer and keep the glass from Weyerbacher.)
Fri. 11/28; 11 a.m. - Dogfish Head Barroom Blitz at Johnny Brenda's ($PAYG for a dozen tasty beers from Dogfish Head on draft.)
Fri. 11/28; 11:30 a.m. - Everything Went Black Friday at Memphis Taproom ($PAYG brunch until 3 p.m. and dark beers all day and night.)
Fri. 11/28; 1 p.m. - Into The Black at City Tap House ($35 for a keepsake tasting glass and 10 tokens for 10 five-ounce tastes.)
Fri. 11/28; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. - Friday Night Tasting at Bell Beverage ($Free tasting samples of beers from Magic Hat.)
Sat. 11/29; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. and 6 p.m.-10 p.m. - Winter Beer Fest at 23rd Street Armory ($10-$50 for more than 100 beers from around the world)

Reading, Pa.
Tue. 11/25 - Meet the Brewer featuring Armstrong Ales at Liberty Taproom in Reading, Pa. ($PAYG for flights of beer and a visit from Steve Armstrong of Phoenixville's Armstrong Ales.)

Wayne, Pa.
Fri. 11/21 - Friday Night Sampling at Beer Yard (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beers from Sierra Nevada.)
Tue. 11/25 - Ithaca Bash at Teresa's Next Door ($PAYG for Ithaca's White Gold, Green Trails, Embrrr Rye Porter, Flower Power, Dark Vine, Rustic Harvest, Creeker, and a firkin of Flower Power.)

West Chester, Pa.
Fri. 11/21; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. - Beer Sampling at Goshen Beverage ($Free tasting samples of beer from Long Trail.)



Thursday, November 13, 2014

Weekly Beer Calendar Update: November 13 - November 19

The drumbeat of beer events continues even as the year-end holidays are bearing down on us. Check out the following list and take time to find a new favorite beer that you can add to your best-of 2014 list.

When you plan for beer events, don't forget PhillyTapFinder.com. They continue to host an impressive listing of beer event draft lists to help better inform your beer event planning.

Click through here for a look at the full monthly calendar of beer events around the Philadelphia region.

Allentown, Pa.
Sat. 11/15; 4 p.m.-7 p.m. - Fall Chocolate Festival at Allentown Brew Works ($25-$30 for all things chocolate including beer, wine, liqueur, chocolate foods, specialties, and wares.)

Chadds Ford, Pa.
Sun. 11/16; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. - Funk'n Sour at The Gables at Chadds Ford ($20-$70 for sour and wild ales from some amazingly talented professional and home brewers. There will be live music by Mason Porter, food and beverage samplings by local/regional vendors, and excellent food provided by The Gables at Chadds Ford.)

Diamond Beach, NJ
Sat. 11/15; 6 p.m. - Tap Takeover at Coastal Blue ($PAYG to meet the staff, brewers, and five beers from Cape May Brewing Company.)

Downingtown/Parkesburg, Pa.
Sat. 11/15; 2 p.m.-5:30 p.m. - Parkesburg Brewery Tour at Victory Brewing Company ($58 for a chartered bus trip, tour, and Victory beer experience in our Parkesburg brewery.)

Horsham, Pa.
Thu. 11/13; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. - Complimentary Beer Tasting at Iron Abbey ($Free tasting samples of beers from Round Guys.)

Lancaster, Pa.
Fri. 11/14 - Dave Wilson and Dogfish at Federal Taphouse ($PAYG for live music from acoustic musician Dave Wilson and a tap takeover from Dogfish Head featuring cool giveaways and a simultaneous tapping of the 120 Minute IPA and World Wide Stout.)

Media, Pa.
Thu. 11/13; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Starr Hill Event at Pinocchio's ($PAYG for Starr Hill's Boxcar Pumpkin Porter, Northern Lights, Grateful Pale, and Jomo Lager.)

Newark, Del.
Mon. 11/17; 6:30 p.m. - Beer Dinner at Two Stones Pub ($TBD for a beer dinner pairing event.)

Norristown, Pa.
Thu. 11/13; 6 p.m.-9:30 p.m. - Ithaca Beer Draft Event at Capone's ($PAYG for a night of beers from Ithaca in New York and a special featured firkin of Flower Power dry-hopped with Citra hops.)

North Wales, Pa.
Fri. 11/14; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. - Grudge Match Beer Release at Iron Hill Restaurant & Brewery ($PAYG as Pearway to Heaven and Blame the Dog go head-to-head.)

Philadelphia, Pa.
Fri. 11/14; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. - Friday Night Tasting at Bell Beverage ($Free tasting samples of beers from Fegley's and a guest appearance from Joe Sixpack.)
Fri. 11/14; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. - Mad Elf/Happy You Night at Grey Lodge ($PAYG as Jolly ol' St. Nick Johnson will have Mad Elf gear for sale and Tröegs' Mad Elf [2014], Mad Elf [2013], Dreamweaver, and Perptual IPA on tap.)
Sat. 11/15; 2 p.m.-6 p.m. - Kildare's Manayunk Craft Beer and Irish Whiskey Festival at Kildare's Irish Pub ($15-$40 for unlimited samples of 40+ incredible craft beers and 10+ Irish Whiskeys along with music and food.)
Mon. 11/17; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 Bottle Shop ($Free tasting samples of beer from Tröegs.)
Wed. 11/19; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. - Brew & Chew at Cavanaugh's Rittenhouse ($20-$25 for a two-hour, four-course pairing of Starr Hill beers with appetizers.)

Princeton, NJ
Thu. 11/13; 6:30 p.m. - Dogfish Dinner at Ruth's Chris ($80 for five courses paired with Dogfish Head's 60 Minute IPA, Indian Brown Ale, Punkin Ale, Sixty-One, and 120 Minute IPA.)

Reading, Pa.
Sat. 11/15; 6 p.m.-10 p.m. - Brewphoria at Canal Street Pub & Restaurant ($40 for live music, all-session-buffet, and exceptional craft beers.)

Voorhees, NJ
Fri. 11/14; 4 p.m.-7 p.m. - Winter Warmer Beer Release at Iron Hill Restaurant & Brewery ($PAYG for the release of our most popular spiced beer, a medium-bodied dark ale finished with classic winter spices and served in a cinnamon rimmed glass.)

Wayne, Pa.
Fri. 11/14 - Friday Night Sampling at Beer Yard (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beers from Goose Island.)

West Chester, Pa.
Fri. 11/14; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. - Beer Sampling at Goshen Beverage ($Free tasting samples of beer from Penn Brewing Company.)



Thursday, November 06, 2014

Weekly Beer Calendar Update: November 6 - November 12

Did you vote for another term of good beer on Election Day this week? Well, here you go. Another week's worth of events around the greater Philadelphia region. Enjoy!

When you plan for beer events, don't forget PhillyTapFinder.com. They continue to host an impressive listing of beer event draft lists to help better inform your beer event planning.

Click through here for a look at the full monthly calendar of beer events around the Philadelphia region.

Bethlehem, Pa.
Thu. 11/6; 5 p.m. - Charity Cask Night at Bethlehem Brew Works($PAYG as 100% of cask-conditioned sales will be donated to The Seed Farm.)

Conshohocken, Pa.
Tue. 11/11; 7 p.m. - Round Guys Tap Takeover at Guppy's ($PAYG for Round Guys' Amateur Hour, Dead Souls, Kiss Off IPA, and Fear of a Brett Planet.)

Croydon, Pa.
Fri. 11/7; 7:30 p.m.-11 p.m. - Movie Night at Neshaminy Creek Brewing Company ($PAYG for a night of beer and a movie with a charitable tie-in to Blind Dog Rescue Alliance, Inc.)

Downingtown, Pa.
Fri. 11/7; 5 p.m. - Happy Firkin Birthday, DirtWolf! at Victory Brewing Company ($PAYG for the tapping of several firkins of DirtWolf to celebrate its first birthday.)

Ewing, NJ
Fri. 11/7; 5 p.m.-9 p.m. - Hipp-O-Lantern Firkin Tapping at The Firkin Tavern ($PAYG for a specialty Hipp-O-Lantern firkin aged with bourbon oak chips and Madagascar Vanilla beans.)

Harrisburg, Pa.
Fri. 11/7; 7 p.m. - Firkin Friday at Federal Taphouse ($PAYG a freshly-tapped firking of Tröegs Blizzard Of Hops.)

Hershey, Pa.
Fri. 11/7; 6 p.m.-10 p.m. - Autos & Ales at AACA Museum ($15-$45 for beers, cigars, and magaritas served amongst antique cars, trucks, motorcycles, memorabilia, and live music.)

Horsham, Pa.
Fri. 11/7; 12 p.m. - Abbatia Octo 8 Tapping at Iron Abbey ($PAYG for a limited time tapping of the Iron Abbey Octo 8.)
Fri. 11/7; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. - Complimentary Beer Tasting at Iron Abbey ($Free tasting samples of Heavy Seas' Loose Cannon, Small Craft Warning, Peg Leg, Great'er Pumpkin, and Winter Storm.)
Wed. 11/12; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. - Russian River Beer Dinner at Iron Abbey ($70 for a five-course meal served with Russian River's Temptation, Supplication, Sanctification, Blind Pig IPA, and Consecration.)

Lancaster, Pa.
Sun. 11/9; 3 p.m.-6 p.m. - Wacker Brewing Launch at Pour ($30 for Wacker Kölsch and Dunkel on tap, sausages to munch on, historic photos, and live entertainment. A portion of the ticket sale proceeds will be donated to LancasterHistory.org.)
Tue. 11/11; 6 p.m. - Fall Beer Dinner at Iron Hill Restaurant & Brewery ($65 for a five-course meal paired with Munich Helles, Orchard Hill Apple Ale, Hefeweizen, Rauchtoberfest, and Cowabunga Porter.)

Maple Shade, NJ
Wed. 11/12; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. - Cerberus II Beer Release at Iron Hill Restaurant & Brewery ($PAYG for a collaboration brewed by our General Manager, Head Chef, and Head Brewer, a dark, rich oatmeal stout brewed with New Jersey oyster shells. A portion of the sales will benefit The Animal Orphanage of Voorhees.)

Medford, NJ
Mon. 11/10; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. - East Meets West Beer Dinner at Ott's ($55 for four courses paired with four beers each from Dogfish Head and Stone breweries.)

Newark, Del.
Thu. 11/6; 4 p.m.-8 p.m. - Embrace the Darkness Beer Release at Iron Hill Restaurant & Brewery ($PAYG to get a taste of the darkness with this dual dark beer release and a special feature menu with enlightened food pairings.)

Paoli, Pa.
Thu. 11/6; 4 p.m.-8 p.m. - Ithaca Box of Hops Happy Hour at TJ's ($PAYG for a lineup of special beers from Ithaca Brewing in New York.)

Philadelphia, Pa.
Thu. 11/6; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. - American Craft Brews at Philly Beer School ($47.98 to sample the extraordinary beers that highlight the differences between East Coast and West Coast brewing styles.)
Thu. 11/6; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. - Om Nom Nom Beer Release at Iron Hill Restaurant & Brewery ($PAYG for an "oatmeal cookie in a glass", brewed with oats, cinnamon, whole vanilla beans, and 5 pounds per barrel of pureed raisins. Bourbon Barrel Om Nom Nom also on tap.)
Fri. 11/7; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. - Friday Night Tasting at Bell Beverage ($Free tasting samples of beers from Bell's.)
Fri. 11/7; 7 p.m. - First Friday at The Institute ($PAYG for some Lancaster brews early on Friday in anticipation of the CBX the following day. On the 2nd floor, King Julian will be stomping with the rest of his Bluegrass minions.)
Sat. 11/8; 11 a.m.-7 p.m. - Craft Beer Express at 12 beer destinations ($10 for the bus and $PAYG at each location. See website for all the event details.)
Sun. 11/9; 2 p.m. - Chili Cook Off at The Cambridge ($PAYG for prizes, pumpkin beers, and tons of chili.)
Sun. 11/9 - The DuClaw Big A$@ Brunch at City Tap House ($PAYG for four High Gravity BIG beers on tap complimented by GIANT-sized brunch items.)
Tue. 11/11; 11 a.m. - 4th Anniversary at Khyber Pass Pub ($PAYG to celebrate the rebirth/makeover of a Philadelphia landmark.)
Wed. 11/12; 7 p.m. - Port Brewing & Lost Abbey Night at Local 44 ($PAYG for beer from two of our favorite Left Coast breweries and awesome SoCal food specials whipped up by Chef Justin Bennett.)
Wed. 11/12; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. - Enter the Wu-Tang 36 Flavas at Han Dynasty-Old City ($55 for 20 courses, 16 beers, 36 flavas, and free doo-rags.)

Phoenixville and Pottstown, Pa.
Fri. 11/7; 11:30 a.m. - Incubus Friday at Sly Fox Brewing Company ($PAYG for the Belgian-style Tripel that pours until the keg kicks, usually by 7 p.m.)

Pottstown, Pa.
Sun. 11/9; 7 a.m. - Sly Fox Cyclocross Race at Sly Fox Brewing Company ($PAYG as the course wraps around an outdoor Sly Fox beer garden, spectators can heckle racers at the top of the run up out of the Fox Hole, and then run across the beer garden to catch them going across the Sly Fox keg barriers. Sly Fox will be providing their regular food menu so you can make a day out of it.)

Sellersville, Pa.
Fri. 11/7; 5 p.m. - Friday Night Beer Tasting at Washington House ($PAYG for a night of beers from Evolution Brewing.)

Wayne, Pa.
Thu. 11/6 - Lew Bryson Book Signing at Teresa's Next Door ($PAYG for a big night of whiskey, Lew, his new whiskey tasting book, and likely the requisite pairing menu from Teresa's Next Door.)
Fri. 11/7 - Friday Night Sampling at Beer Yard (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beers from Long Trail.)

West Chester, Pa.
Fri. 11/7; 5 p.m.-9 p.m. - Marzipan Beer Release at Iron Hill Restaurant & Brewery ($PAYG for the first ever release of this decadent oatmeal brown ale brewed with toasted almonds and honey.)
Fri. 11/7; 6 p.m. - Beer Sampling at Goshen Beverage ($Free tasting samples of beer from Tröegs.)

Wilmington, Del.
Sat. 11/1 through Sat. 11/8 - Wilmington Beer Week at quality beer destinations (See website for complete and up-to-date listing of events.)
Fri. 11/7; 6 p.m. - Night of the Czar at Iron Hill Restaurant & Brewery ($PAYG for the release of four Russian Stouts and a special guest beer from North Coast Brewing Company.)