Saturday, March 28, 2015

Beer Calendar: What To Do in April 2015

Time to get outside and play kids. No excuses. The calendar says April and your beer glass is empty. Go fill it up at any of the following events that are sure to help you usher in spring in grand fashion.

Plus, farther abroad, Pittsburgh Craft Beer Week does its thing from April 17-26, Harrisburg Beer Week has its own party from April 24-May 2, and Ommegang BCTC tickets go on sale April 1.

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
Wed. 4/1 - 7th Anniversary Party at Devil's Den in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 4/1 - Smuttynose Presents Smuttlabs Daily Lab at Jose Pistola's in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 4/1 - Get Lost (Abbey!) Sacred-ish Ales at The Belgian Cafe in Philadelphia, Pa. (7:07 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 4/3 - First Friday Release Party: Firestone Walker/Neshaminy Brewing at Bottle Bar East in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 4/4 - Quad Day at The Grey Lodge in Philadelphia, Pa. (11 a.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 4/4 - Jack & The Beer Stalk Bunch at City Tap House-University City in Philadelphia, Pa. (11 a.m.-3 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 4/4 - Split Thy Skull at Tattooed Mom's in Philadelphia, Pa. (1 p.m.-6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Mon. 4/6 - Bottle Shop Happy Hour (Lancaster) at Local 44 Bottle Shop in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free)
Mon. 4/6 - Jack's Abby Brewing Launch at Barcade in Philadelphia, Pa. (9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Tue. 4/7 - PBW Announcement Party at Lucky's Last Chance in Philadelphia, Pa. (8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 4/8 - Two Roads Brewing Launch at Barcade in Philadelphia, Pa. (4 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 4/8 - St. Benjamin Tap Takeover at Birra in Philadelphia, Pa. (4 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 4/8 - Philly Beer Scene Award Voting Party at Devil's Den in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 4/9 - An Evening with the Finest Ladies in Beer (oh and Allagash and Dogfish Head) at Kite & Key in Philadelphia, Pa. ($PAYG)
Fri. 4/10 - New Holland Tasting at Bottle Bar East in Philadelphia, Pa. (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 4/10 - Lust Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Philadelphia, Pa. (5 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 4/11 - Great Philadelphia Firkin Stroll at Kite & Key, City Tap House (Logan), Jose Pistola's, Strangeloves, and Varga in Philadelphia, Pa. (1 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Mon. 4/13 - Bottle Shop Happy Hour (Flying Fish) at Local 44 Bottle Shop in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free)
Tue. 4/14 - Philly Beer Scene Award Voting Party at Lucky's Last Chance in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 4/15 - Hooligan Hour at The Dandelion in Philadelphia, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 4/16 - PA Breweries Night at Barcade in Philadelphia, Pa. (4 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 4/17 - Boulevard Smokestack Tasting at Bottle Bar East in Philadelphia, Pa. (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 4/18 - Beer Garden Grand Re-Opening and Seventh Anniversary Beer Bash at Memphis Taproom in Philadelphia, Pa. (12 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 4/18 - Dogfish Head Record Store Day Party at Johnny Brenda's in Philadelphia, Pa. (4 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Mon. 4/20 - Bottle Shop Happy Hour (Founders) at Local 44 Bottle Shop in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free)
Tue. 4/21 - Long Trail Earth Day at The Grey Lodge in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Tue. 4/21 - Tuesday Tapping (Lagunitas) at Lucky's Last Chance in Philadelphia, Pa. (8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 4/22 - Long Trail Earth Day at Hop Angel Brauhaus in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 4/24 - Yards ArBrew Day at The Grey Lodge in Philadelphia, Pa. (4 p.m.-7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 4/24 - North Coast Tasting at Bottle Bar East in Philadelphia, Pa. (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 4/25 - Craft Expo at Cottman Beverage in Philadelphia, Pa. (12 p.m.-4 p.m.; $Free admission + $PAYG)
Mon. 4/27 - Bottle Shop Happy Hour (Otter Creek) at Local 44 Bottle Shop in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free)
Tue. 4/28 - Tuesday Tapping (Maine) at Lucky's Last Chance in Philadelphia, Pa. (8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 4/30 - Long Trail Keep the Pint Night at Revolution House in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.-10 p.m.; $20)


Philadelphia's close suburbs (within 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Wed. 4/1 - April Fools Tap Takeover at Fingers Wings & Other Things in Conshohocken, Pa. ($PAYG)
Thu. 4/2 - Pour It Forward at Capone's in Norristown, Pa. (6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 4/2 - Neshaminy Creek and Free Will at Teresa's Next Door in Wayne, Pa. ($PAYG)
Thu. 4/2 - Starr Hill Sampling at Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 4/2 - First Thursday Tasting at Whole Foods in Plymouth Meeting, Pa. (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $Free)
Tue. 4/7 - Session Beer Day at Barren Hill Tavern & Brewery in Lafayette Hill, Pa. (11 a.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 4/9 - Philly Beer Scene Throwdown at Hulmeville Inn in Hulmeville, Pa. ($PAYG)
Thu. 4/9 - Ship Bottom Takeover at Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 4/10 - Phightin' Phils Pils Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Media, Pa. (4 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 4/10 - Sly Fox Tasting at The Beer Shoppe in Ardmore, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free)
Fri. 4/10 - Phightin' Phils Pils Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Maple Shade, NJ (6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 4/10 - Lagunitas has a Hillbilly side at Teresa's Next Door in Wayne, Pa. ($PAYG)
Sat. 4/11 - One Year Anniversary Party at Conshohocken Brewing Company in Conshohocken, Pa. (12 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sun. 4/12 - 3rd Anniversary Party at Forest & Main in Ambler, Pa. (12 p.m.; $PAYG)
Mon. 4/13 - Jack's Abby at Teresa's Next Door in Wayne, Pa. ($PAYG)
Tue. 4/14 - Summit Brewing Night at Hulmeville Inn in Hulmeville, Pa. ($PAYG)
Thu. 4/16 - Lagunitas Day After Tax Day Takeover at Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. (4 p.m.-7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 4/17 - Philadelphia Brewing Tap Takeover at Pizzeria Uno in Deptford, NJ (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 4/17 - Weyerbacher Tasting at The Beer Shoppe in Ardmore, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free)
Fri. 4/17 - Full Nelson Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Maple Shade, NJ (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 4/23 - Evo Tasting at Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 4/24 - Boulevard/Duvel Tasting at The Beer Shoppe in Ardmore, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free)


Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other (beyond 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Wed. 4/1 - Brewer's Choice For Charity at Allentown Brew Works in Allentown, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 4/1 - 886 Minutes of Continual Hops at The Pour House in Westmont, NJ ($PAYG)
Thu. 4/2 - Charity Cask Night at Bethlehem Brew Works in Bethlehem, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 4/2 - Victory Tap Takeover at Blend Bar & Bistro in Hamilton Twp, NJ (7 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 4/3 - Incubus Friday at Sly Fox Brewing Company in Phoenixville and Pottstown, Pa. (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 4/3 - Phightin' Phils Pils Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in West Chester, Pa. (3 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 4/3 - Beer Sampling (Kona) at Goshen Beverage in West Chester, Pa. (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free)
Fri. 4/3 - First Friday Firkin at Victory Brewing Company in Downingtown, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 4/3 - Friday Night Beer Tasting (Boulevard) at Washington House in Sellersville, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 4/4 - Easter Hopfest at Union Jack's on the Manatawny in Boyertown, Pa. (11:45 a.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 4/10 & Sat. 4/11 - Cask Ale Festival at Bulls Head Public House in Lititz, Pa. ($PAYG)
Sat. 4/11 - Free Will and Tiny Miracles at CJ's Doghouse in Kulpsville, Pa. ($20)
Thu. 4/16 - Tap Takeover with Jack's Abby at Isaac Newton’s in Newtown, Pa. (7 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 4/16 - Yards Preview at Backyard Ale House in Scranton, Pa. (8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 4/17 - Third Friday Firkin Fest at Sly Fox Brewing Company in Phoenixville, Pa. (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 4/17 through Wed. 4/22 - SRT Spree along the Schuylkill River Trail for the length of the Schuykill River ($PAYG)
Sat. 4/18 - Dogfish Head at Two Stones Pub in Newark, Del. ($PAYG)
Sun. 4/19 - Cards Against Humanity with NJ Girls Pint Out at River Horse Brewing Company in Ewing, NJ (3 p.m.-6 p.m.; $15)
Thu. 4/23 - Tis the Saison Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Newark, Del. (4 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 4/24 - Victory Brewing Company Tap Takeover at Isaac's Pickle Bar in Lancaster, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 4/25 - 5th Anniversary Celebration at Station Taproom in Downingtown, Pa. (12 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 4/25 - Delaware on the Deck at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Wilmington, Del. (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $PAYG)


Events Over $20

Philadelphia
Wed. 4/8 - 7 Deadly Sins Beer Dinner at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $70)
Thu. 4/9 - Lunch with Phil Markowski at Monk's Cafe in Philadelphia, Pa. (12 p.m.; $50)
Mon. 4/13 - The Inagural Taco & Beer Pairing 6 Course Dinner Extravaganza at Sancho Pistola's in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $50)
Sat. 4/18 and Sat. 4/25 - Belgian Beer Experience at Philly Beer School in Philadelphia, Pa. (7:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.; $47.98)
Sun. 4/19 - Philadelphia Real Ale Invitational at Yards Brewing Company in Philadelphia, Pa. (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $50-$60)
Sat. 4/25 - Fruit Beer & Cider Festival at The Institute in Philadelphia, Pa. (12 p.m.-6 p.m.; $40-$55)
Sat. 4/25 - Craft Brew Fest at Manayunk Brewing Company in Philadelphia, Pa. (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $20-$65)


Philadelphia's close suburbs (within 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Thu. 4/9 - Game of Thrones Beer Dinner at Iron Abbey in Horsham, Pa. (7 p.m.-9 p.m.; $60)
Sat. 4/11 - Ardmore Beer Hall at Ardmore Music Hall in Ardmore, Pa. (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $40)
Tue. 4/21 - Spring Beer Dinner at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Ardmore, Pa. (7 p.m.; $85)


Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other (beyond 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Thu. 4/2 - Meeting of the Malts IV at Allentown Brew Works in Allentown, Pa. (5:30 p.m.; $35-$125)
Thu. 4/2 - Craft Beer Series: Bell's & Canoe Ridge Wines at The Inn Keeper's Kitchen in West Chester, Pa. (7 p.m.-9 p.m.; $70)
Fri. 4/3 - Craft Beer Series: Stone & Lagunitas at The Inn Keeper's Kitchen in West Chester, Pa. (7 p.m.-9 p.m.; $70)
Sat. 4/11 - Firkin Fest on Seminary Ridge at Lutheran Theological Seminary in Gettysburg, Pa. (6 p.m.-9 p.m.)
Sat. 4/11 - Taming of the Brew at Caldwell Consistory in Bloomsburg, Pa. (7 p.m.-11 p.m.; $30-$60)
Sun. 4/12 - Head to Tail Dinner at Station Taproom in Downingtown, Pa. (6 p.m.; $100)
Tue. 4/14 - Girls Just Wanna Have Suds at Victory Brewing Company in Downingtown, Pa. (6:30 p.m.; $30)
Thu. 4/16 - Nibble. Sip. Devour. A Spirited Evening at Nectar in Berwyn, Pa. (6:30 p.m.; $125)
Thu. 4/16 - Tröegs Beer Dinner at The Yardley Inn in Yardley, Pa. (7 p.m.; $65)
Sat. 4/18 - Brew to Brew 10k+ at Fegley's Brew Works in Allentown, Pa. (8 a.m.; $45-$130)
Sat. 4/18 - Electric City Craft Brew Fest at Montage Mountain in Scranton, Pa. (12 p.m.-3:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.-8 p.m.; $29-$49)
Sat. 4/18 - Reading Craft Beer Festival at Santander Arena in Reading, Pa. (12 p.m.-5 p.m.; $20-$65)
Sat. 4/18 - Dewey Beach Brewfest at Gary's Dewey Beach Grill in Dewey Beach, Del. (1 p.m.-3 p.m. and 5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $28-$35)
Sat. 4/18 - Saturday Brew Review (Victory) at Isaac's Pickle Bar in Lancaster, Pa. (3 p.m.-5 p.m.; $25)
Sat. 4/18 - America On Tap at Robbinsville Field House & Expo Center in Robbinsville, NJ. (2:30 p.m.-6 p.m.; $35-$40)
Sat. 4/18 - Bottoms Up For Prostate Cancer at Desmond Hotel in Malvern, Pa. (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $60-$209)
Sat. 4/18 - IPA Brew Fest at Stoudts Brewing Company in Adamstown, Pa. (6 p.m.-10 p.m.; $35)
Sun. 4/19 - A Run To The Taproom at Cape May Brewing Company in Cape May, NJ. (9:30 a.m.; $40)
Tue. 4/21 - Beer & Chocolate Pairing at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Phoenixville, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $40)
Thu. 4/23 - Grilled Cheese and Craft Beer Tasting at World Cafe Live in Wilmington, Del. (6 p.m.; $40)
Thu. 4/23 - Harvest Beer Dinner at Susquehanna Harvest Seasonal Grill in Harrisburg, Pa. (6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.; $TBA.)
Sat. 4/25 - McCoole's Beer Festival at McCoole's Arts & Events in Quakertown, Pa. (12 p.m.-4 p.m. and 5 p.m.-9 p.m.; $15-$60)
Sat. 4/25 - PA Flavor at Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg, Pa. (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $20-$75)




Thursday, March 26, 2015

Weekly Beer Calendar Update: March 26 - March 31

And just like that, another month is gone. But not before getting in at least another couple dozen or so beer events. Play ball!

As you review beer events, don't forget PhillyTapFinder.com. As always, they 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.

Chalfont, Pa.
Sat. 3/28; 11 a.m. - Founders Backstage Series at Blue Dog ($PAYG for 15 spectacular Founders Brewing offerings on draft.)

Harleysville, Pa.
Wed. 3/25 and Thu. 3/26 - Bourbon Barrel Bonanza at The Butcher & Barkeep ($PAYG for more than ten bourbon-barrel beers, bourbon cocktails, and Chef Jeff's kitchen bourbon creations.)

Kulpsville, Pa.
Sat. 3/28 - Bacon & Beer Pairing at CJ's Doghouse ($PAYG for an epic beer line-up from Saucony Creek and an amazing selection of Bespoke bacon.)

Lititz, Pa.
Mon. 3/30; 5:30 p.m. - Tröegs Beer Dinner at Bulls Head Public House ($28.50 for a four-course meal served with Tröegs' Cultivater Helles Bock Pale Ale, HopBack Amber Ale, and Impending Decent Stout.)

Maple Shade, NJ
Fri. 3/27; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. - The Shredder release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($PAYG for this fierce Imperial India Pale Ale, brewed with Columbus, Centennial, Citra, and Chinook hops.)

Media, Pa.
Sun. 3/29; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. - Otter Creek Tap Takeover at Pinocchio's ($PAYG for beers and a visit from the brewmaster, Mike Gerhart, from Otter Creek.)

Newtown, Pa.
Thu. 2/26; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. - Tap Takeover with Ninkasi at Isaac Newton’s ($PAYG for Total Domination IPA, Tricerahops Double IPA, Dawn of the Red India Red Ale, and This is Why I Hop Hoppy IPA.)

Perkasie, Pa.
Sun. 3/29; 12 p.m.-6 p.m. - Sour Sunday at Free Will Brewing Company ($PAYG for Free Will's 2014 Kriek (2nd batch, end of year), 2014 Whit (aged 1 year in French oak on red cranberries), 2015 Whit, 2014 Barbera Grape, 2014 Key Lime, 2015 Peach, 2014 Big Berliner, and 2014 Snow Day.)

Philadelphia, Pa.
Thu. 3/26; 5 p.m. - Natural Wine & Funky Beer at South Philadelphia Tap Room ($PAYG for a slew of natural wines paired with a lineup of funky draught beer.)
Thu. 3/26; 5 p.m. - Bella Vista Beer Night at The Trestle Inn ($PAYG as Bella Vista brings in a special load of Ballast Point to share.)
Thu. 3/26; 6 p.m.-10 p.m. - Hammer of Glory HOG Tour With Grand Marshal Tom Kehoe at Kite & Key ($PAYG as Yards' Tom Kehoe parades our beloved Hammer of Glory through the streets of Fairmount stopping at London Grill, Urban Saloon, Belgian Café, and Kite & Key.)
Thu. 3/26; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. - Flying Fish Keep the Pint Night at Revolution House ($20 for a commemorative pint glass and featured Flying Fish beers Abbey Dubbel, Exit 3 Blueberry Braggot, Farmhouse Ale, and HopFish IPA.)
Thu. 3/26; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. - Three-Eyed Raven Sneak Peek at Eastern State Penitentiary ($30 for food samples from London Grill, Belgian Cafe, and Bridgid's alongside an exclusive sneak peek tasting of the Game Of Thrones beer from Ommegang, Three-Eyed Raven Dark Saison.)
Sat. 3/28; 11 a.m. - Founders CBS Saturday at Brü Craft and Wurst ($PAYG for a full slate of awesome drafts from Founders Brewing Company, highlighted by a keg of this super special beer.)
Sat. 3/28; 12 p.m.-4 p.m. - Barrels, Bourbons & Bugs at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant-Chestnut Hill ($PAYG for six bourbon-aged beers and six wild beers.)
Sat. 3/28; 1 p.m. - Brewery Ars tasting at GreenStreet Coffee Co. ($Free tasting samples of the brewery-in-planning's coffee infused vanilla stout.)
Sat. 3/28 - Tsar Power at Khyber Pass Pub ($PAYG for a two-day Russian Imperial Stout fest.)
Sun. 3/29; 12 p.m. - Over Easy Like Sunday Morning at City Tap House-University City ($PAYG as head brewer Mike Gerhart joins us for the launch of two new year-rounds, Over Easy and Back Seat Berner. Live music by The Butchy Sochorow Band.)
Sun. 3/29 - Firestone Walker Savage Sixtel Sunday at Kite & Key ($PAYG for a full lineup of beers from Firestone Walker including at least Velvet Merlin, 2013 Velvet Merkin, Anniversary XVII, 2013 Double DBA, 2013 Sucaba, Agrestic, Easy Jack, Union Jack, Pivo Pils, Pale 31, and Opal.)
Mon. 3/30; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 Bottle Shop ($Free tasting samples of beer from Starr Hill.)
Mon. 3/30; 7 p.m. - Here’s The Beef at World Cafe Live ($50 for an 8-course tasting menu of braised meats, dry rubs, slow roasted cuts of beef, bourbon, and high octane beers.)
Tue. 3/31; 8 p.m. - Tuesday Tapping at Lucky's Last Chance ($PAYG for Maine's Mo.)

Reading, Pa.
Thu. 3/26 - Ninkasi at Liberty Taproom ($PAYG to welcome Ninkasi to Berks County for the first time with Total Domination IPA, Tricerahops Double IPA, Dawn Of The Red IPA, and This Is Why I'm Hop.)
Tue. 3/31; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Tröegs Beer Dinner at Liberty Taproom ($TBA for a four-course meal served with beers from Tröegs.)

Voorhees, NJ
Sat. 3/28; 12 p.m.-4 p.m. - Café Au Chocolat Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($PAYG for coffee and chocolate-inspired beers.)

West Chester, Pa.
Fri. 3/27; 5 p.m.-9 p.m. - Tough Guy IPA Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($PAYG for the release of this American-style IPA with full malt flavor, pronounced bitterness and an overwhelming citrus hop aroma)

Wilmington, Del.
Fri. 3/27; 6 p.m. - Mahalo, Apollo! Release Party at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($PAYG for the opening of our deck and patio with the release of this golden, complex and refreshing summer wheat beer.)



Thursday, March 19, 2015

Weekly Beer Calendar Update: March 19 - March 25

You've got less than a month until the tax bill is due. You've got one week to enjoy the following beer events. Starting today.

As you review beer events, don't forget PhillyTapFinder.com. As always, they 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.

Atlantic City, NJ
Fri. 3/20 and Sat. 3/21 - Atlantic City Beer and Music Fest at Atlantic City Convention Center ($20-$60 and see website for all the details.)

Downingtown, Pa.
Sat. 3/21; 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m. - Beer and Yoga at Victory Brewing Company ($30 for a yoga class taught in our Downingtown brewpub, followed by food and beer pairings.)
Tue. 3/24; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. - Steal The Glass at Victory Brewing Company ($PAYG as the newly designed Summer Lover glass is yours with purchase of the beer.)

Exton, Pa
Fri. 3/20; 4:30 p.m.-7 p.m. - Friday Night Tasting at Exton Beverage ($Free tasting samples of beers from Victory.)
Sat. 3/21; 1 p.m.-3 p.m. - Saturday Tasting at Exton Beverage ($Free tasting samples of beers from Saucony Creek.)

Harleysville, Pa.
Wed. 3/25 and Thu. 3/26 - Bourbon Barrel Bonanza at The Butcher & Barkeep ($PAYG for more than ten bourbon-barrel beers, bourbon cocktails, and Chef Jeff's kitchen bourbon creations.)

Hulmeville, Pa.
Thu. 3/19; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Exit Tap Takeover at Hulmeville Inn ($PAYG for several core and Exit beers from Flying Fish on tap.)

Lancaster, Pa.
Fri. 3/20; 5 p.m. - Hardywood Park Craft Brewing Company Tap Takeover at Isaac's Pickle Bar ($PAYG as all taps are dedicated to Richmond Va.'s Hardywood Park.)

Media, Pa.
Wed. 3/25; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Flying Fish Tap Takeover at Pinocchio's ($PAYG for several beers from Flying Fish on tap.)

Philadelphia, Pa.
Thu. 3/19; 4 p.m. - Terrapin Brewing Night at Barcade ($PAYG for at least 15 beers from Terrapin including a “French-toasted” and a barrel-aged Wake-n-Bake.)
Thu. 3/19; - Funky Brewstah at City Tap House-Logan ($PAYG for core, favorites, and rarities from Founders and ShawneeCraft.)
Sat. 3/21 - EBB & Malt House Homebrew Challenge at Earth Bread + Brewery ($PAYG and see all details at website.)
Sun. 3/22; 6 p.m.-10 p.m. - Big Gay Night with Big Gay Ice Cream at Alla Spina ($PAYG for ice cream, Victory brews, and a burlesque and drag show with host Bambi Galore to entertain.)
Sun. 3/22; 6:30 p.m.-8 p.m. - The Monger Games at DiBruno's at The Franklin ($10 as beer fondues from Yards, Victory, and Iron Hill go head-to-head.)
Sun. 3/22 through Sun. 3/29 - Flight Club: Grape vs. Grain at Johnny Brenda's ($PAYG for draft wine flights from Gotham Wine Project and draft beer flights from our favorite local breweries matched up with cheeses and charcuterie.)
Mon. 3/23; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 Bottle Shop ($Free tasting samples of beer from Neshaminy Creek.)
Tue. 3/24; 8 p.m. - Tuesday Tapping at Lucky's Last Chance ($PAYG for Avery's Maharaja.)
Tue. 3/24; 6:30 p.m. - He Said PA Beer, She Said PA Wine at World Cafe Live ($55 as Bill Covaleski of Victory Brewing Company will go head-to-head with renowned wine author and sommelier Marnie Old, pairing rival drinks with a three-course, sit-down dinner.)
Wed. 3/25; 6 p.m. - Firestone Walker Brewing Company at Hawthornes ($PAYG for a night of beers from Firestone Walker.)

Phoenixville, Pa.
Fri. 3/20; 11:30 a.m. - Third Friday Firkin Fest at Sly Fox Brewing Company ($PAYG for the special brewed Lovin' Cup (Rochester, NY) west coast IPA and the usual suspects, Chester County Bitter and Chester County IPA.)

Wayne, Pa.
Fri. 3/20 - Founders and CBS at Teresa's Next Door ($PAYG for a whole slew of Founders beers and even have CBS available in a flight.)

Wernersville, Pa.
Thu. 3/19; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. - Tröegs Tap Takeover at Paradise by the Slice ($PAYG for a huge lineup of beers from Tröegs.)

Wilmington, Del.
Thu. 3/19; 6 p.m. - Grilled Cheese and Craft Beer Tasting at World Cafe Live ($40 for two of the best things paired together in unexpected and delicious ways. Bring your vegetarian friends, too — we can accommodate them on all pairings.)
Wed. 3/25 - Oskar Blues Gubna Release at Trolley Tap House ($PAYG with more details to come.)



Thursday, March 12, 2015

Weekly Beer Calendar Update: March 12 - March 18

This may look like a mere meager list compared to last week. Keep in mind, though, I listed the Craft Beer Express only once and not twelve times for each event at each location. Still plenty of work to be done. Keep it going.

As you review beer events, don't forget PhillyTapFinder.com. As always, they 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. 3/14; 4 p.m. - The Great Allentown Brew Works Cask Beer Festival at Allentown Brew Works ($15-$45 for exclusive, one-of-a-kind, cask creations from more than a dozen craft breweries.)

Cape May, NJ
Fri. 3/13; 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. - Ferry Beer Dinner at Cape May-Lewes Ferry Terminal ($50 for a four-course meal served with Flying Fish's ESB, HopFish, Exit 4, Exit 1, and Exit 3.)

King of Prussia, Pa.
Fri. 3/13; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. - Yards Sampling at Wegmans ($Free tasting samples of beers from Yards.)
Fri. 3/13; 7 p.m. - Evil Genius Beer Dinner at Sullivan's Steakhouse ($69 for a five-course meal served with Evil Genius' Evil Eye PA, Stacy's Mom Citra IPA, Hop King Imperial IPA, I'll Have What She's Having Chocolate Hazlenut Imperial Stout, and Purple Monkey Dishwasher Chocolate Peanut Butter Porter.)

Lancaster, Pa.
Sat. 3/14; 3 p.m.-5 p.m. - Saturday Brew Review at Isaac's Pickle Bar ($25 for a four-course meal and beers from Hardywood Park Craft Brewery.)

Limerick, Pa.
Thu. 3/12; 6 p.m. - Free Will Tap Takeover at Craft Ale House ($PAYG for Ralphius, Black Friday, Pixie’s Revenge, Chasing the Dragon, Safeword, Barbera Grape Lambic, Mango Wheat, and ...)

Media, Pa.
Sat. 3/14; 11 a.m. - Founders Tap Takeover at Pinocchio's ($PAYG for all your favorites from Founders.)

Newark, Del.
Thu. 3/12; 4 p.m.-8 p.m. - Hop Addicted Double IPA Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($PAYG for the release of this American-style Double IPA with malt flavors that balance a generous amount of hops for a delicious citrusy, piney hop flavor and aroma.)

Newtown, Pa.
Sat. 3/14; 11:30 a.m. - Tap Takeover with Bell’s Brewery at Isaac Newton’s ($PAYG for Dirty Bastard Scotch Style Ale, Black Rye, Dark Penance Imperial Black IPA, Curmudgeon Old Ale, Imperial Stout, Pale Ale, All Day IPA, Canadian Breakfast Stout, and a few surprises throughout the day.)

North Wales, Pa.
Wed. 3/18; 6:30 p.m. - Brewed Food Beer Dinner at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($TBA for a five-course meal paired with Something Hoppy, Sizzler IPA, Bedotter, Quadruple, and Irontella.)

Philadelphia, Pa.
Fri. 3/13; 12 p.m. and 6 p.m. - Friday the Firkinteenth at The Grey Lodge ($PAYG for the unique event celebrating firkins of bartop beer and Friday the 13th.)
Fri. 3/13; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. - Yards Sampling at Stone's Beverage Center ($Free tasting samples of beers from Yards.)
Fri. 3/13; 6 p.m. - Broken Goblet Carle the Great release party at Bottle Bar East ($PAYG for the release of Russian Imperial Stout.)
Fri. 3/13; 7:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. - World Atlas of Beer at Philly Beer School ($39.98 for an overview of the entire world of beer today.)
Fri. 3/13 through Sun. 3/16 - Ides of March Dark Beer Tap Takeover at Red Owl Tavern ($PAYG for a special dark beer menu and pricing all weekend long plus a Meet and Greet with Barren Hill head brewer David Wood on Friday, March 13 from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m.)
Sat. 3/14; 11 a.m.-7 p.m. - Craft Beer Express at 12 top-notch beer bars ($10-$15 for a bus ticket, if desired, plus $PAYG at each establishment.)
Sat. 3/14; 11 a.m. - Exclusive USA Launch at Brauhaus Schmitz ($PAYG for the US debut of Füchschen Alt Beer from Düsseldorf.)
Sun. 3/15; 11 a.m. - Founders Breakfast Club Brunch at City Tap House-University City ($PAYG for brunch of champions and featuring Breakfast Stout, KBS, and CBS among other Founders core and specialties.)
Mon. 3/16; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 Bottle Shop ($Free tasting samples of beer from Yards.)
Tue. 3/17; 8 p.m. - Tuesday Tapping at Lucky's Last Chance ($PAYG for Hardywood Park's Raspberry Stout.)
Wed. 3/18; 6 p.m. - Yards Brewing Company at Hawthornes ($PAYG for a night of beers from Yards.)

Phoenixville & Pottstown, Pa.
Tue. 3/17; 6 p.m. - St. Patrick's Day Boot Camp Finale at Sly Fox ($PAYG for Irish music, prize raffle, corned beef and cabbage, and Seamus' Irish Red and O'Reilly's Stout flowing all night.)

West Chester, Pa.
Sat. 3/14; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. - Craft Beer Series: Boulevard & Deschutes at The Inn Keeper's Kitchen ($70 for a fun night as Boulevard and Deschutes battle it out.)

Wilmington, Del.
Wed. 3/18; 6:30 p.m. - 6 Degrees of Bacon Beer Dinner at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($75 for a six-course bacon-themed dinner served with Saison, Pulaski Pilsner, Vienna Red Lager, Belgian Wit, Abbey Dubbel, and Russian Imperial Stout.)



Wednesday, March 11, 2015

Craft Beer Express 2015 in Philadelphia -- next stop America's Best Beer-Drinking City

Okay, my apologies. That headline sounds like quite the marketing pitch and for the record I've got absolutely nothing to do with any aspect of the Craft Beer Express except for giving it a bit of publicity here. Yet, even though I've never partaken in a full-day of the twice-annual Craft Beer Express (and only rode the bus once for a short hop across town), there's something about this day that comes every March and November that I really appreciate and feel compelled to share with you.

As during Philly Beer Week, these twelve establishments, which represent some of the best of the local beer scene, put on a display of unique beers and themed events for the day and early evening. Throw in an all-day unlimited $10 bus pass and you've got the making of a fun beer day-drinking Saturday in the city with friends. It's quite the showcase for the local bar scene.

Given the rain forecast for this coming Saturday, March 14, what else would you rather be doing?

As I mentioned, I typically pick 1-3 stops and swoop in, typically by way of train and walking, for a few hours. One time, I swear, I'm going to walk the entire route and hit every stop. Of course this means sticking to a schedule and limiting each stop to a beer, but I think this would be a fun (and healthy) approach all the same.

For what it's worth, you can expect to see me at some point at Johnny Brenda's (because it's a stout brunch at JB's and I'm a fan of both the food, the beer, and the people), Kraftwork (because they've got one of the last kegs of Captain Lawrence's Think Drink that I "helped brew"), Jose Pistola's (because Pi is fun and nutritious and I love me some Other Farm), and Brauhaus Schmitz (because I will never pass up a chance to get into a fine German Alt bier, kudos to the crew there for securing its arrival on US terra firma).

Here's the rest of the schedule for the day.

Kraftwork  541 East Girard Avenue -- 215-739-1700
"I Heart NY" -- Lovable, huggable, kissable beers from New York state! Featuring Southern Tier, Ithaca, Captain Lawrence, Ommegang, Sixpoint, Bluepoint and Doc's Cider.

Johnny Brenda's  1201 Frankford Avenue -- 215-739-9684
"7th Annual Stout Brunch" -- Back for the 7th year! We will be pouring a wide array of local stouts on draft from Dry Irish Stouts to Oyster Stouts to Russian Imperial Stouts. We will have an awesome Full Irish Breakfast on the menu in addition to our regular brunch menu, plus an array of delicious oysters!

Standard Tap  901 North 2nd Street -- 215-238-0630
"Big Wood Weekend featuring Bone-In Brunch!" -- Big Wood Weekend is coming! Over the weekend we'll be pouring a heady array of barrel-aged and wood-smoked beer as we welcome Craft Beer Express. There's even a Big Wood mystery firkin from Victory Brewing. Big Wood also means the return of Bone-In Brunch! From 11-3 on Saturday and Sunday our brunch menu will feature all manner of meat on the bone from marrow to chops and ribs. So come hungry because BIG WOOD WEEKEND featuring BONE-IN BRUNCH will leave you filled up!

The Institute  549 North 12th Street -- 267-318-7772
"Widmer Invades The Institute" -- The brewers will be in town to talk about their amazing brews from the State of Oregon. We will also have the outdoor draft trailer to help minimize your wait for any food or beverage.

Bishop's Collar  2349 Fairmount Avenue -- 215-765-1616
"Deschutes & Ladder" -- Inversion IPA, Fresh squeezed IPA, Abyss stout, Mirror Pond, Black Butte porter, Zarabanda, Bachelor bitter, and Red Chair northwest pale ale.

Kite & Key  1836 Callowhill Street -- 215-568-1818
"Doggie Style!" -- Flying Dog is taking over the taps for the Craft Beer Express. There are no fleas on these dogs! Pearl Necklace, Raging Bitch, Old Scratch, Gonzo to name a few. We will have a special treat if you are good!!

Jose Pistola's  263 South 15th Street -- 215-545-4101
"Pie Day Celebration" -- Celebrate PIE Day and Jose Pistola's! Mini PIE eating competitions (PIES provided by the delicious Frecon Cidery). Competitions to see who can recite the most characters of PIE. Possibly some PIEs in the face. Featured drafts include: Other Farms Hoppy Mon, Other Farms Saisoner, Bell's 2 Hearted, Bell's Oarsmen, St. Bernardus Prior 8, St. Bernardus, and Rodenbach Collaboration Kazematten Grotten cave aged brown and the Oskar Blues Pinner.

The Sidecar  2201 Christian Street -- 215-732-3429
"IPA's Greatest Hits" -- It's baaaaaack! Hop heads: REJOICE!

Pub on Passyunk East  1501 East Passyunk Avenue -- 215-755-5125
"Sour Beer Tap Takeover" -- Pucker up sour pusses.

Devil's Den  1148 South 11th Street -- 215-339-0855
"Ommegang and Boulevard" -- Ommegang and Boulevard breweries will be taking over the taps at the Devill's Den for a mix of the Best Belgian and American craft beers.

Brauhaus Schmitz  718 South Street -- 267-909-8814
"US Füchschen Alt Beer Premiere" -- Brauhaus will host the exclusive United States launch of Füchschen Alt bier, a traditional German ale that has been hand-crafted in Düsseldorf since 1848. This rare copper-colored ale is brewed from a centuries-old recipe using toasty malt and noble hops, giving the beer a crisp, hoppy finish with a subtle caramel flavor and hints of toasted bread.

Race St. Cafe  208 Race Street -- 215-627-6181
"Captain Lawrence & Sixpoint" -- Please Join us in celebration of Captain Lawrence (Sunblock - Wheat IPA, Captains Reserve - Imperial IPA, Elderflower - Belgian Blonde) and Sixpoint Breweries ( Bengali - IPA, Crisp Lager, Resin - Imperial IPA, Sweet Action Pale Ale). Stop by to sample their beers and speak with their brewery representatives.

Monday, March 09, 2015

Ten years of serving at The Brew Lounge - Let's Get It Started - Part 2



2005.

There was Hurricane Katrina. The second term of Truthiness began in the White House. Pope John Paul II died. Prince Charles married Camilla. Lance Armstrong "won" again, for the seventh time. There was Terri Schaivo. And bird flu. Hitch. Brokeback Mountain. Mr. & Mrs. Smith. Carrie Underwood.

In beer circa 2005, CNN covered RateBeer.com's poll of the top breweries/beers of the world. At that time, AleSmith from San Diego came in at #1, Westvleteren at #4, Dogfish Head #9, and Victory #14. Cantillon was #32, McKenzie Brew House #35, and Triumph #41.

"In fact, about the only region thirsting for good brewers seems to be the Deep South. No company there makes it onto RateBeer's Top 50 list. And in many states in Old Dixie, it's a challenge to find any beer besides the mass-marketed varieties." Times certainly have changed that list, particularly where the South is concerned.

And, The Brew Lounge was born.

It began innocently enough in August/September 2005. Friend, neighbor, and homebrewer Adam Beck asked if I'd be interested in contributing to this blog thing he started. Sounded great to me. I liked beer. I liked writing and communicating. I liked helping inform others about the merits of "different beer".

At the time, it went by the name Beer Bits. Get it? Writing about beer on a computer. Bits. Bytes. About beer. Clever. Not much later it became known as The Brew Lounge.

I didn't have any master plan for how or what I would contribute or what I wanted to accomplish, even short-term, out of this little venture. But I'd just been to a beer dinner with a group of friends at the famed Monk's Cafe in Philly where Dominique Friart came from Belgium to showcase her St. Feuillien beers.

This seemed as good of a way as any to begin. I enjoyed getting into the details of the event, the food, the beer, and the people. With that, a monster was born.

Check it out at this link and, if you'd not seen it before, see what you think of my early days of beer writing. If anyone says it's impressive, I'll probably accuse you of fibbing.

This review concept struck a chord with me and led me to do similar writeups through the few remaining months of 2005 at Firewaters, World Cafe Live (a Hurricane Katrina benefit), Grey Lodge, Beer Yard (a Southampton tasting), The Black Door (anyone remember this short-lived South Street-area bar?), The Foodery (when there was only one in the Philly area), and Independence Brew Pub (today the home of Field House across from the venerable Reading Terminal Market).

Come to think of it, I wonder if the Firewaters article is where my first "What's On Tap" list came from? Probably. I'll talk more about that in a future installment of this Ten-Year Series.

In the remaining months of 2005, I also branched out — as would become a pattern in future years — to Maryland with The Brewer's Art and Dogfish Head Alehouse, to DC with Dave Alexander's RFD (Regional Food & Drink), and a whole lot of NYC.

I've since given up the cataloguing, but I'd kept an index for many years of all the places I'd visited across the country and subsequently written about. It's here at this link and you can use it as a jumping off point to explore any of the many dozens of places I've shared with you over the years.

Lots of miles, beers, and cheers. I wouldn't trade them in for anything.




Thursday, March 05, 2015

Weekly Beer Calendar Update: March 5 - March 11

Am I getting better about tracking down more events, or are more events being scheduled as this thing called beer gets bigger?! Around 40 events in the next seven days. Just reading this should work up a thirst. Go get 'em kids.

As you review beer events, don't forget PhillyTapFinder.com. As always, they 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.

Ardmore, Pa.
Fri. 3/6; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Yards Tasting at The Beer Shoppe ($Free tasting samples of beers from Yards.)

Bethlehem, Pa.
Thu. 3/5; 5 p.m. - Charity Cask Night at Bethlehem Brew Works ($PAYG as 100% of cask proceeds will be donated to The Center for Animal Health & Welfare.)

Downingtown, Pa.
Fri. 3/6; 5 p.m. - First Friday Firkin at Victory Brewing Company ($PAYG for Donnybrook Stout that’s been spiced with vanilla beans.)

Easton, Pa.
Sat. 3/7; 12 p.m. - The Stars of Craft Beer Fest at State Theatre ($10-$55 for over 60 craft beers, food samples, vendors, and great music in an intimate setting — plus get exclusive time to chat with the brewers.)

Hershey, Pa.
Thu. 3/5; 11 a.m. - Full Moon Firkin at Tröegs Brewing Company ($PAYG for special firkins to coincide with the Full Moon.)

Horsham, Pa.
Wed. 3/11; 7 p.m. - Maryland Breweries Beer Dinner at Iron Abbey ($60 for ten beers from Heavy Seas and DuClaw served with five courses of food.)

Kulpsville, Pa.
Tue. 3/10; 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. - Girls Night With Firestone Walker at CJ's Doghouse ($PAYG to get the girls together and enjoy a fantastic line-up of great beers and small snacks.)

Lansdale, Pa.
Sat. 3/7; 12 p.m.-6 p.m. - 3rd Anniversary Party at Round Guys ($15 for an outdoor tented block party, corn hole tournament, silent disco, games and raffles, food from Jess’s BBQ, and lots of beer from Round Guys.)

Lititz, Pa.
Mon. 3/9 through Sat. 3/14 - 5th Anniversary at Bulls Head Public House ($PAYG for daily special beers and door prizes.)

Maple Shade, NJ
Fri. 3/6 - Cape May Tap Takeover at Uno Chicago Grill ($PAYG for nearly a dozen Cape May kegs being tapped all day long.)
Sat. 3/7; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. - Barrels, Bourbon, and Bugs at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($PAYG for a collection of wild and bourbon-aged beers from Iron Hill.)

Media, Pa.
Thu. 3/5; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Prism Event at Pinocchio's ($PAYG for Prism's Shady Blonde and Felony IPA.)
Fri. 3/6; 4 p.m.-8 p.m. - Firkin Friday at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($PAYG for the Belgian IPA in a firkin.)

Macungie, Pa.
Tue. 3/10; 6 p.m. - Weyerbacher Beer Dinner at Savory Grille ($75 for a six-course meal served with Verboten, Imperial Pumpkin, Reserva, Merry Monks, Double Simcoe, and Tiny.)

Norristown, Pa.
Sat. 3/7; 10 a.m. - Russian River Pliny the Younger Draft Event at Capone's ($PAYG for the one you've all been waiting for.)

Philadelphia, Pa.
Mon. 3/2 through Tue. 3/31 - March Madness at Varga Bar ($PAYG throughout the month as Varga hosts special events with featured local breweries facing off against each other culminating in a finals match on Tuesday, March 31.)
Thu. 3/5; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - St. Benjamin Meet the Brewers Keep the Glass at Hop Angel Brauhaus ($PAYG to drink St. Benjamin Le Bon Bock and meet owners/brewers Tim and Christina.)
Thu. 3/5; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. - Olde Cask Imports Launch Party at The Victoria Freehouse ($PAYG casks of Black Tongue Double Black IPA from Signature, Revelation Ale from Dark Horse, Postman's Knock from Hobsons, and Siberia Rhubarb Saison from Ilkley.)
Thu. 3/5; 7 p.m. - Weyerbacher Tap Takeover at Dawson Street Pub ($PAYG for a night of Weyerbacher beers.)
Fri. 3/6; 5 p.m.-9 p.m. - Beer + Art Show with Forest & Main at Indy Hall ($Free for a night of beer-related art by Daniel Endicott of Forest & Main and free samples of beer.)
Fri. 3/6; 6 p.m. - Manayunk Grand Cru bottle release party at Bottle Bar East ($PAYG for Grand Cru in bottles and on draft.)
Sat. 3/7; 11 a.m. - Hop Brunch at City Tap House-Logan ($PAYG for an indulgent brunch with Bell's Hopslam, Tröegs Nugget Nectar, DuClaw Hop Continuum #1, Russian River Pliny the Elder, Ithaca Flower Power, Sierra Nevada Hop Hunter and more.)
Sat. 3/7; 12:30 p.m.-5 p.m. - Philly Craft Beer Festival at Philadelphia Navy Yard ($10-$75 for more than 75 of the best craft breweries from around the block, around the country, and around the globe.)
Sat. 3/7; 2 p.m. - Weyerbacher: Some Things Old, Some Things Nouveau at U-Bahn ($PAYG for a mix of old and new, fresh and aged, featuring some very cool limited offerings.)
Sat. 3/7; 2 p.m. - Boulevard 7 on 7 at Brü Craft & Wurst ($PAYG for some rare and limited drafts.)
Sun. 3/8; 11 a.m. - Pliny Time at City Tap House-University City ($10 per glass, one glass per person, first come first served.)
Sun. 3/8; 5:30 p.m. - The Brewer's Plate at Kimmel Center ($59-$99 for Philadelphia's premier local beer and food pairing festival that brings together our region's outstanding chefs, farmers, food artisans, brewers, distillers, and winemakers.)
Mon. 3/9; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 Bottle Shop ($Free tasting samples of beer from Stoudts.)
Tue. 3/10; 8 p.m. - Tuesday Tapping at Lucky's Last Chance ($PAYG for Knee Deep's Simtra, Citra, and Hoptologist.)
Tue. 3/10 - Brooklyn Beer Dinner at Dos Segundos Cantina ($65 for five plates and five beers from Brooklyn including 2011 Monster Ale and Cuvee La Boite as well as other tried and true favorites.)
Wed. 3/11; 7:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. - Beer & Cheese Pairing at Philly Beer School ($47.98 for a class on beer and cheese pairings.)

Phoenixville and Pottstown, Pa.
Fri. 3/6; 11:30 a.m. - Incubus Friday at Sly Fox Brewing Company ($PAYG for the Belgian-style Tripel that pours on the first Friday of each month until the keg kicks.)
Sat. 3/7; 12 p.m.-6 p.m. - Pre-St. Patty's Day Pub Crawl at 8 bars ($PAYG for beer specials along the way.)

Plymouth Meeting, Pa.
Thu. 3/5; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. - First Thursday Tasting at Whole Foods ($Free tasting samples of local beers with small bites of food.)

Princeton, NJ
Tue. 3/10; 6 p.m.-10 p.m. - River Horse Tap Takeover at Alchemist & Barrister ($PAYG for several River Horse beers on tap, including Baltic Porter, Oatmeal Milk Stout, and IPA.)

Sellersville, Pa.
Fri. 3/6; 5 p.m. - Friday Night Beer Tasting at Washington House ($PAYG for Celtic-themed beers.)

West Chester, Pa.
Thu. 3/5; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. - Craft Beer Series: Founders & Sebastiani Wines at The Inn Keeper's Kitchen ($70 to explore how both craft beer and wine pair with dinner.)
Fri. 3/6; 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. - Beer Sampling at Goshen Beverage ($Free tasting samples of beers from Straub Brewing Company.)



Sunday, March 01, 2015

Beer Calendar: What To Do in March 2015

Beware the beers of March. They're out there. Everywhere from the shore to the mountains. Read on and see for yourself.

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
Sun. 3/1 - Victory Belgian Inspired Brunch at Varga Bar in Philadelphia, Pa. (12 p.m.; $PAYG)
Mon. 3/2 - Bottle Shop Happy Hour (Victory) at Local 44 Bottle Shop in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free)
Mon. 3/2 - Industry Night with Varga and Founders at Amis in Philadelphia, Pa. (10 p.m.; $PAYG)
Mon. 3/2 - Younger at Monk's Cafe in Philadelphia, Pa. (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG)
Mon. 3/2 through Tue. 3/31 - March Madness at Varga Bar in Philadelphia, Pa. ($PAYG)
Tue. 3/3 - Keep The Pint Night (Victory) at Grace Tavern in Philadelphia, Pa. (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Tue. 3/3 - Tuesday Tapping (Stillwater) at Lucky's Last Chance in Philadelphia, Pa. (8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 3/4 - DuClaw Brewing Beer & Cheese Pairing at Hawthornes in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 3/4 - Weyerbacher Polar Vortex Evening at The Belgian Cafe in Philadelphia, Pa. (7:01 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 3/4 - Port Brewing/Lost Abbey Event at The Bishop's Collar in Philadelphia, Pa. ($PAYG)
Thu. 3/5 - St. Benjamin Meet the Brewers Keep the Glass at Hop Angel Brauhaus in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 3/5 - Olde Cask Imports Launch Party at The Victoria Freehouse in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 3/5 - Weyerbacher Tap Takeover at Dawson Street Pub in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 3/6 - Beer + Art Show with Forest & Main at Indy Hall in Philadelphia, Pa. (5 p.m.-9 p.m.; $Free)
Fri. 3/6 - Manayunk Grand Cru bottle release party at Bottle Bar East in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 3/7 - Hop Brunch at City Tap House (Logan) in Philadelphia, Pa. (11 a.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 3/7 - Weyerbacher: Some Things Old, Some Things Nouveau at U-Bahn in Philadelphia, Pa. (2 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 3/7 - Boulevard 7 on 7 at Brü Craft & Wurst in Philadelphia, Pa. (2 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sun. 3/8 - Pliny Time at City Tap House (University City) in Philadelphia, Pa. (11 a.m.; $10)
Mon. 3/9 - Bottle Shop Happy Hour (Stoudts) at Local 44 Bottle Shop in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free)
Tue. 3/10 - Tuesday Tapping (Knee Deep) at Lucky's Last Chance in Philadelphia, Pa. (8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 3/13 - Friday the Firkinteenth at The Grey Lodge in Philadelphia, Pa. (12 p.m. and 6 p.m. tappings; $PAYG)
Fri. 3/13 - Yards Sampling at Stone's Beverage Center in Philadelphia, Pa. (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $Free)
Fri. 3/13 - Broken Goblet Carle the Great release party at Bottle Bar East in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 3/14 - Craft Beer Express at 12 top-notch beer bars in Philadelphia, Pa. (11 a.m.-7 p.m.; $10-$15)
Sat. 3/14 - Exclusive USA Launch at Brauhaus Schmitz in Philadelphia, Pa. (11 a.m.; $PAYG)
Sun. 3/15 - Founders Breakfast Club Brunch at City Tap House (University City) in Philadelphia, Pa. (11 a.m.; $PAYG)
Mon. 3/16 - Bottle Shop Happy Hour (Yards) at Local 44 Bottle Shop in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free)
Tue. 3/17 - Tuesday Tapping (Hardywood) at Lucky's Last Chance in Philadelphia, Pa. (8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 3/18 - Yards Brewing Company at Hawthornes in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 3/19 - Terrapin Brewing Night at Barcade in Philadelphia, Pa. (4 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 3/19 - Funky Brewstah at City Tap House (Logan) in Philadelphia, Pa. (8 p.m.-12 a.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 3/21 - EBB & Malt House Homebrew Challenge at Earth Bread + Brewery in Philadelphia, Pa. ($PAYG)
Sun. 3/22 through Sun. 3/29 - Flight Club: Grape vs. Grain at Johnny Brenda's in Philadelphia, Pa. ($PAYG)
Mon. 3/23 - Bottle Shop Happy Hour (Neshaminy Creek) at Local 44 Bottle Shop in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free)
Tue. 3/24 - Tuesday Tapping (Avery) at Lucky's Last Chance in Philadelphia, Pa. (8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 3/25 - Firestone Walker Brewing Company at Hawthornes in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 3/26 - Bella Vista Beer Night at The Trestle Inn in Philadelphia, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 3/26 - Flying Fish Keep the Pint Night at Revolution House in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.-10 p.m.; $20)
Sun. 3/29 - Firestone Walker Savage Sixtel Sunday at Kite & Key in Philadelphia, Pa. ($PAYG)
Mon. 3/30 - Bottle Shop Happy Hour (Starr Hill) at Local 44 Bottle Shop in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free)
Tue. 3/31 - Tuesday Tapping (Maine) at Lucky's Last Chance in Philadelphia, Pa. (8 p.m.; $PAYG)


Philadelphia's close suburbs (within 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Sun. 3/1 - Founders CBS Comes to Narberth at The Greeks Next Door in Narberth, Pa. (1 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 3/5 - First Thursday Tasting at Whole Foods in Plymouth Meeting, Pa. (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $Free)
Thu. 3/5 - Prism Event at Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 3/6 - Firkin Friday at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Media, Pa. (4 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 3/6 - Yards Tasting at The Beer Shoppe in Ardmore, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free)
Fri. 3/6 - Cape May Tap Takeover at Uno Chicago Grill in Maple Shade, NJ ($PAYG)
Sat. 3/7 - Russian River Pliny the Younger Draft Event at Capone's in Norristown, Pa. (10 a.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 3/7 - Barrels, Bourbon, and Bugs at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Maple Shade, NJ (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 3/13 - Yards Sampling at Wegmans in King of Prussia, Pa. (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $Free)
Sat. 3/14 - Founders Tap Takeover at Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. (11 a.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 3/19 - Exit Tap Takeover at Hulmeville Inn in Hulmeville, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 3/20 - Founders and CBS at Teresa's Next Door in Wayne, Pa. ($PAYG)
Wed. 3/25 - Flying Fish Tap Takeover at Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 3/28 - Otter Creek Tap Takeover at Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. (1 p.m.-3 p.m.; $PAYG)


Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other (beyond 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Wed. 3/4 - Charity Cask Night (March's beer: TBA) at Allentown Brew Works in Allentown, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 3/5 - Full Moon Firkin at Tröegs Brewing Company in Hershey, Pa. (11 a.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 3/5 - Charity Cask Night (March's beer: TBA) at Bethlehem Brew Works in Bethlehem, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 3/6 - Incubus Friday at Sly Fox Brewing Company in Phoenixville and Pottstown, Pa. (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 3/6 - Beer Sampling (Straub) at Goshen Beverage in West Chester, Pa. (4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.; $Free)
Fri. 3/6 - Friday Night Beer Tasting (Celtic beers) at Washington House in Sellersville, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 3/6 - First Friday Firkin at Victory Brewing Company in Downingtown, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 3/7 - Pre-St. Patty's Day Pub Crawl at 8 bars in Phoenixville, Pa. (12 p.m.-6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 3/7 - 3rd Anniversary Party at Round Guys in Lansdale, Pa. (12 p.m.-6 p.m.; $15)
Mon. 3/9 through Sat. 3/14 - 5th Anniversary at Bulls Head Public House in Lititz, Pa. ($PAYG)
Tue. 3/10 - River Horse Tap Takeover at Alchemist & Barrister in Princeton, NJ (6 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG)
Tue. 3/10 - Girls Night With Firestone Walker at CJ's Doghouse in Kulpsville, Pa. (6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 3/12 - Hop Addicted Double IPA Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Newark, Del. (4 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 3/12 - Free Will Tap Takeover at Craft Ale House in Limerick, Pa. (6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 3/14 - Tap Takeover with Bell’s Brewery at Isaac Newton’s in Newtown, Pa. (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 3/19 - Tröegs Tap Takeover at Paradise by the Slice in Wernersville, Pa. (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 3/20 - Third Friday Firkin Fest at Sly Fox Brewing Company in Phoenixville, Pa. (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 3/20 - Hardywood Park Craft Brewing Company Tap Takeover at Isaac's Pickle Bar in Lancaster, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 3/25 - Oskar Blues Gubna Release at Trolley Tap House in Wilmington, Del. ($PAYG)
Thu. 2/26 - Tap Takeover with Ninkasi at Isaac Newton’s in Newtown, Pa. (7 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 3/27 - Tough Guy IPA Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in West Chester, Pa. (5 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 3/27 - Mahalo, Apollo! Release Party at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Wilmington, Del. (6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 3/28 - Café Au Chocolat Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Voorhees, NJ (12 p.m.-4 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 3/28 - Bacon & Beer Pairing at CJ's Doghouse in Kulpsville, Pa. ($PAYG)


Events Over $20

Philadelphia
Wed. 3/4 - Pubs That Care at Misconduct Tavern in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $40)
Sat. 3/7 - Philly Craft Beer Festival at Philadelphia Navy Yard in Philadelphia, Pa. (12:30 p.m.-5 p.m.; $10-$75)
Sun. 3/8 - The Brewer's Plate at Kimmel Center in Philadelphia, Pa. (5:30 p.m.; $59-$99)
Tue. 3/10 - Brooklyn Beer Dinner at Dos Segundos Cantina in Philadelphia, Pa. ($65)
Wed. 3/11 - Beer & Cheese Pairing at Philly Beer School in Philadelphia, Pa. (7:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.; $47.98)
Fri. 3/13 - World Atlas of Beer at Philly Beer School in Philadelphia, Pa. (7:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.; $39.98)
Tue. 3/24 - He Said PA Beer, She Said PA Wine at World Cafe Live in Philadelphia, Pa. (6:30 p.m.; $55)
Wed. 3/25 and Thu. 3/26 - Bourbon Barrel Bonanza at The Butcher & Barkeep in Harleysville, Pa. ($PAYG)

Philadelphia's close suburbs (within 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Wed. 3/11 - Maryland Breweries Beer Dinner at Iron Abbey in Horsham, Pa. (7 p.m.; $60)
Fri. 3/13 - Evil Genius Beer Dinner at Sullivan's Steakhouse in King of Prussia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $69)
Wed. 3/18 - Brewed Food Beer Dinner at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in North Wales, Pa. (6:30 p.m.; $TBA)

Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other (beyond 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Thu. 3/5 - Craft Beer Series: Founders & Sebastiani Wines at The Inn Keeper's Kitchen in West Chester, Pa. (7 p.m.-9 p.m.; $70)
Sat. 3/7 - The Stars of Craft Beer Fest at State Theatre in Easton, Pa. (12 p.m.; $10-$55)
Tue. 3/10 - Weyerbacher Beer Dinner at Savory Grille in Macungie, Pa. (6 p.m.; $75)
Fri. 3/13 - Ferry Beer Dinner at Cape May-Lewes Ferry Terminal in Cape May, NJ (5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.; $50)
Sat. 3/14 - Saturday Brew Review (Hardywood Park) at Isaac's Pickle Bar in Lancaster, Pa. (3 p.m.-5 p.m.; $25)
Sat. 3/14 - The Great Allentown Brew Works Cask Beer Festival at Allentown Brew Works in Allentown, Pa. (4 p.m.; $15-$45)
Sat. 3/14 - Craft Beer Series: Boulevard & Deschutes at The Inn Keeper's Kitchen in West Chester, Pa. (7 p.m.-9 p.m.; $70)
Wed. 3/18 - 6 Degrees of Bacon Beer Dinner at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Wilmington, Del. (6:30 p.m.; $75)
Thu. 3/19 - Grilled Cheese and Craft Beer Tasting at World Cafe Live in Wilmington, Del. (6 p.m.; $40)
Fri. 3/20 and Sat. 3/21 - Atlantic City Beer and Music Fest at Atlantic City Convention Center in Atlantic City, NJ ($20-$60)
Sat. 3/21 - Beer and Yoga at Victory Brewing Company in Downingtown, Pa. (9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.; $30)
Mon. 3/30 - Tröegs Beer Dinner at Bulls Head Public House in Lititz, Pa. (5:30 p.m.; $28.50)
Tue. 3/31 - Tröegs Beer Dinner at Liberty Taproom in Reading, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $TBA)