Wednesday, April 29, 2015

Beer Calendar: What To Do in May 2015

Below you'll find the "calm" before the storm. That's right, 28 days of normal beer event humdrum around the Philly region. Just a hundred or so events of varying magnitude. Then Philly Beer Week lands on May 29 as the Hammer Of Glory kicks things off with a dozen events as it traverses the city all day long before landing at Opening Tap, this year being held at the 23rd Street Armory.

As in the past, I won't even attempt to fill this calendar with PBW events. Rather, head on over to PhillyBeerWeek.org and stay current with their apps and whatnot. If I get around to it, I may even do one of those famed spreadsheets that so many of you have clamored for in the past. Time will tell.

In the meantime, my book Beer Lover's Mid-Atlantic lands in May after more than a year in waiting. There'll be events and lots of me trumpeting its arrival. For now, head on over to the publisher's website where you can find a series of links to online sites, such as Amazon, where you can find the book for sale/pre-sale. Brick-and-mortar stores, too, will be carrying the book.

Finally, all you homebrewers probably know about the AHA Big Brew Day on May 2. If you didn't, now you do. Get planning!

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
Fri. 5/1 - First Friday: Saucony Creek Tap Takeover at Bottle Bar East in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free)
Sat. 5/2 - Detox, Retox at City Tap House-University City in Philadelphia, Pa. (11 a.m.; $20)
Sun. 5/3 - Victory Lap Broad Street Run Party at Lo Spiedo in Philadelphia, Pa. (10 a.m.-4 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sun. 5/3 - A Tribe Called Brunch Vol. 2 at McCrossen's in Philadelphia, Pa. (11 a.m.-3 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sun. 5/3 - Spring Festival Multi-Tap at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Philadelphia, Pa. (12 p.m.-3 p.m.; $PAYG)
Mon. 5/4 - May The Fourth Be With You at Standard Tap in Philadelphia, Pa. (4 p.m.-7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Mon. 5/4 - Bottle Shop Happy Hour (Lagunitas) at Local 44 Bottle Shop in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free)
Fri. 5/8 - Left Hand Tap Takeover and Sampling at Bottle Bar East in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 5/8 through Sun. 5/10 - Bocks & Brats at Johnny Brenda's in Philadelphia, Pa. ($PAYG)
Sat. 5/9 - IPA Block Party at Hawthornes in Philadelphia, Pa. (12 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Mon. 5/11 - Bottle Shop Happy Hour (Port/Lost Abbey) at Local 44 Bottle Shop in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free)
Sat. 5/16 - Grey Lodge Beer Garden at Mayfair May Fair in Philadelphia, Pa. (12 p.m.-4 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 5/16 - Wheat Beer Fest at Point Breeze Pop-Up in Philadelphia, Pa. (12 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 5/21 - Yards 20th Anniversary Party at Dawson Street Pub in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 5/22 - Free Will Tap Takeover at Bottle Bar East in Philadelphia, Pa. (5 p.m.; $Free)
Fri. 5/29 through Sun. Jun. 7 - Philly Beer Week at various establishments all around Philadelphia, Pa. (See website for up-to-date listings of nearly 1,000 events at over 200 establishments.)


Philadelphia's close suburbs (within 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Sat. 5/2 - Alpine and Russian River at Capone's in Norristown, Pa. ($PAYG)
Tue. 5/5 - Liberation Day at The Churchville Inn in Churchville, Pa. (6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 5/7 - Victory Tap Takeover at Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 5/7 - Two Roads Brewing at Hulmeville Inn in Hulmeville, Pa. (6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Tue. 5/12 through Sat. 5/16 - 60th Anniversary Celebration at Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. ($PAYG)
Wed. 5/13 - Introducing Levante Brewing at Teresa's Next Door in Wayne, Pa. ($PAYG)
Fri. 5/15 - Second Rising Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Maple Shade, NJ (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 5/15 - Barrel-Aged Wee Heavy Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in North Wales, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 5/20 - Alpine Brewing and Green Flash at Teresa's Next Door in Wayne, Pa. ($PAYG)
Thu. 5/21 - Penn Brewing Night at Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 5/27 - Dominion and Beer at Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 5/27 - The Tappening 2 at Fingers Wings and Other Things in Conshohocken, Pa. (6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 5/28 - La Flama Blanca vs. Golden Child Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Ardmore, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)


Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other (beyond 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Fri. 4/24 through Sat. 5/2 - Harrisburg Beer Week at various establishments around Harrisburg, Pa. (See website for all event details as HBW comes to a close this coming Saturday.)
Fri. 5/1 - Ballast Point Tapping at The Drafting Room in Exton, Pa. (4 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 5/1 - Lei Day Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Voorhees, NJ (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 5/1 - Friday Night Beer Tasting (Hardywood) at Washington House in Sellersville, Pa. (5 p.m.; $10-$12)
Fri. 5/1 - Incubus Friday at Sly Fox Brewing Company in Phoenixville and Pottstown, Pa. (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 5/1 - Flying Fish Sampling at Exton Beverage in Exton, Pa. (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free)
Fri. 5/1 - First Friday Firkin at Victory Brewing Company in Downingtown, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 5/1 - Bridge St. Bock Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Phoenixville, Pa. (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 5/2 - Bourbon Flav, Barrel-Aged Multi-Tap at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Newark, Del. (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 5/2 - Spring At The Farm at Beach Plum Farm in Cape May, NJ (11 a.m.-5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sun. 5/3 - Bock Fest and Goat Race at Sly Fox Brewing Company in Pottstown, Pa. (11 a.m.-6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sun. 5/3 - Cinco de Stone de Tres at Union Jack's on the Manatawny in Boyertown, Pa. (4 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 5/6 - Brewer's Choice For Charity at Allentown Brew Works in Allentown, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 5/7 - Charity Cask Night at Bethlehem Brew Works in Bethlehem, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 5/8 - Diplomat Dunkel Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Lancaster, Pa. (12:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 5/8 - Golden Ram IPA Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in West Chester, Pa. (5 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 5/8 - Brooklyn Brewery Tasting at Exton Beverage in Exton, Pa. (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free)
Sat. 5/9 - Spring Fest at Argilla Brewing Company in Newark, Del. (11 a.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 5/9 - Wyndridge Farm Brewery Tasting at Exton Beverage in Exton, Pa. (1 p.m.-3 p.m.; $Free)
Thu. 5/14 - Belgiumfest at Bistro on Bridge in Phoenixville, Pa. (7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 5/15 - Third Friday Firkin Fest at Sly Fox Brewing Company in Phoenixville, Pa. (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 5/15 - Flying Fish Tap Takeover at Isaac's Pickle Bar in Lancaster, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 5/15 - Kona Sampling at Exton Beverage in Exton, Pa. (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free)
Sat. 5/16 - Tap Takeover with Stone at Isaac Newton’s in Newtown, Pa. ($PAYG)
Thu. 5/21 - River Horse Tap Takeover at Fenix in Phoenixville, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 5/22 - Susquehanna Brewing Sampling at Exton Beverage in Exton, Pa. (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free)
Thu. 5/28 - Two Brothers at CJ's Doghouse in Kulpsville, Pa. ($PAYG)
Sat. 5/30 - Taps, Tunes, & Trucks at Sly Fox Brewing Company in Pottstown, Pa. (11 a.m.-6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 5/30 - Made In America Multi-Tap at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Phoenixville, Pa. (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $PAYG)


Events Over $20

Philadelphia
Fri. 5/1 through Sun. 5/3 - Louisiana Crawfish Boil at Varga Bar in Philadelphia, Pa. (2 p.m.-11 p.m.; $35)
Sat. 5/2 - JDRF Fundraiser with Harpoon at City Tap House-University City in Philadelphia, Pa. (3 p.m.-6 p.m.; $50)
Sat. 5/2 - Maifest VIP at Brauhaus Schmitz in Philadelphia, Pa. (11 a.m.-8 p.m.; $100)
Sat. 5/9 - Greater Northeast Philadelphia Beer Fest at Canstatter's in Philadelphia, Pa. (12 p.m.-5 p.m.; $10-$45)
Sat. 5/9 through Sat. 6/27 (weekly on Saturdays) - Brewing Program at Philly Beer School in Philadelphia, Pa. (11 a.m.-1 p.m.; $549.99)
Tue. 5/19 - Philly Beer Scene Awards at World Cafe Live in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.-10 p.m.; $50)
Sat. 6/27 - Beer and Cheese Pairing at Philly Beer School in Philadelphia, Pa. (7:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.; $56.98)
Sat. 5/30 - International Great Beer Expo at Philadelphia Navy Yard in Philadelphia, Pa. (12:30 p.m.-5 p.m.; $10-$85)


Philadelphia's close suburbs (within 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Sat. 5/9 - Brandywine Valley Craft Brewers Festival at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Media, Pa. (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $5-$45)


Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other (beyond 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Sat. 5/2 - Washington Crossing Brewfest at Washington Crossing Historic Park in Washington Crossing, Pa. (12:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m.; $10-$40)
Sat. 5/2 - Art of the Brew Beer Fest at Hamburg Field House in Hamburg, Pa. (2 p.m.-5 p.m.; $10-$45)
Thu. 5/7 - Brewers Pizza Night at Argilla Brewing Company in Newark, Del. (6 p.m.; $35)
Sat. 5/9 - Yardley Brew Fest along the Delaware River in Yardley, Pa. (12 p.m.-5 p.m.; $10-$75)
Sat. 5/9 - BrewFest at Mount Hope Estate & Winery in Mount Hope, Pa. (11 a.m.-3 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.; $25-$50)
Sat. 5/9 - Boone's Beerfest at Daniel Boone Homestead in Birdsboro, Pa. (2 p.m.-6 p.m.; $15-$45)
Sat. 5/9 - Pints for Pets at Peoples Natural Gas Field in Altoona, Pa. (1 p.m.-4 p.m. and 6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $35-$40)
Sun. 5/10 - Mother’s Day Brunch at Victory Brewing Company in Downingtown, Pa. (10 a.m.-2 p.m.; $25 for adults and $12 for children)
Wed. 5/13 through Sun. May 17 - MidAtlantic Wine + Food Festival at various locations around Delaware, as well as Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Maryland ($Varies)
Thu. 5/14 - Grilled Cheese and Craft Beer Tasting at World Cafe Live in Wilmington, Del. (6 p.m.; $40)
Fri. 5/15 - Craft Beer Series: Ballast Point & Great Divide at The Inn Keeper's Kitchen in West Chester, Pa. (7 p.m.-9 p.m.; $70)
Sat. 5/16 - Beer and Yoga at Victory Brewing Company in Downingtown, Pa. (9 a.m.-11:30 a.m.; $30)
Sat. 5/16 - Schuylkill County Brew Fest at Frackville Elks in Frackville, Pa. (2 p.m.-5:30 p.m.; $35)
Sat. 5/16 - BBQ and Port and Lost Abbey Brewing at CJ's Doghouse in Kulpsville, Pa. (3 p.m.; $21)
Sat. 5/16 - Brew Kids On The Block at York Fairgrounds in York, Pa. (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $15-$30)
Sun. 5/17 - Victory Run for Ryan at Victory Brewing Company in Downingtown, Pa. (1 p.m.-4 p.m.; $40)
Mon. 5/18 - Evolution Beer Dinner at Bulls Head Public House in Lititz, Pa. (5:30 p.m.; $28.50)
Sat. 5/23 - Dogs & Brews at Reading Public Museum in Reading, Pa. (12 p.m.-4 p.m.; $20-$75)
Sat. 5/30 - PBS39 Brewfest at Coca-Cola Park in Allentown, Pa. (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $5-$60)
Sat. 5/30 - Saturday Brew Review (Flying Fish) at Isaac's Pickle Bar in Lancaster, Pa. (3 p.m.-5 p.m.; $25)




Thursday, April 23, 2015

Weekly Beer Calendar Update: April 23 - April 30

April's beer events calendar came in like a tornado and left like hurricane. After this coming week, I don't imagine that May will be any different. Plus, with May 29 and the kickoff to Philly Beer Week coming on strong, you'd have to live in a storm shelter to avoid the many different ways in which to enjoy our favorite beverage here in 2015. Keep calm and we'll all get through this just fine!

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. 4/24; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Boulevard/Duvel Tasting at The Beer Shoppe ($Free tasting samples of beers from Boulevard and Duvel.)

Boyertown, Pa.
Sat. 4/25; 6 p.m. - Firkin o’ Nectar at Union Jack’s on the Manatawny ($PAYG for Tröegs Nugget Nectar from the firkin and Perpetual IPA, Cultivator, Scratch #176 Red, and Scratch #178 Rye Pale.)

Conshohocken, Pa.
Wed. 4/29 - Flying Fish Tasting Things at Fingers Wings and Other Things ($PAYG for Flying Fish's Exit 4, Exit 16, Farmhouse Summer, and RedFish.)

Downingtown, Pa.
Sat. 4/25; 12 p.m. - 5th Anniversary Celebration at Station Taproom ($PAYG for an Anniversary Draft List that will get your attention.)

Exton, Pa.
Fri. 4/24; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. - Friday Night Samplings at Exton Beverage ($Free tasting samples of beers from Evil Genius.)

Harrisburg, Pa.
Thu. 4/23; 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. - Harvest Beer Dinner at Susquehanna Harvest Seasonal Grill ($TBA.)
Sat. 4/25; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. - PA Flavor at Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex ($20-$75 for up to 40 Pennsylvania breweries along with 20 PA Preferred food producers and 20 PA Preferred restaurants.)

Lancaster, Pa.
Fri. 4/24; 5 p.m. - Victory Brewing Company Tap Takeover at Isaac's Pickle Bar ($PAYG as all the taps are dedicated to beers from Victory.)

Media, Pa.
Thu. 4/23; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Evo Tasting at Pinocchio's ($PAYG for Lot #3, Lot #6, and Summer Session Ale.)

Newark, Del.
Thu. 4/23; 4 p.m.-9 p.m. - Tis the Saison Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($PAYG for the release of three classic Saisons.)

Philadelphia, Pa.
Fri. 4/24; 4 p.m.-7 p.m. - Yards ArBrew Day at The Grey Lodge ($PAYG for Yards' beers. Trees are free while they last.)
Fri. 4/24; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. - North Coast Tasting at Bottle Bar East ($PAYG for beers from North Coast Brewing Company.)
Sat. 4/25; 12 p.m.-4 p.m. - Craft Expo at Cottman Beverage ($Free admission and sample and $PAYG beer purchases.)
Sat. 4/25; 12 p.m.-6 p.m. - Fruit Beer & Cider Festival at The Institute ($40-$55 for a festival cup for sampling some of the best fruit beers and ciders around. Live music and sidewalk food concession stands.)
Sat. 4/25; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. - Craft Brew Fest at Manayunk Brewing Company ($20-$65 for beer, BBQ tasting, bourbon samples, and live blues.)
Mon. 4/27; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 Bottle Shop ($Free tasting samples of beers from Otter Creek.)
Tue. 4/28; 8 p.m. - Tuesday Tapping at Lucky's Last Chance ($PAYG for Maine Weez.)
Thu. 4/30; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. - Long Trail Keep the Pint Night at Revolution House ($20 for glassware and Long Trail's Double Bag Altbier, Limbo IPA, Mostly Cloudy Witbier, and Summer Ale.)

Quakertown, Pa.
Sat. 4/25; 12 p.m.-4 p.m. and 5 p.m.-9 p.m. - McCoole's Beer Festival at McCoole's Arts & Events ($15-$60 for live music, food, craft vendors, beer trivia, homebrew competition, and unlimited samples of wines, spirits, and over 75 beers.)

West Chester, Pa.
Fri. 4/24; 4 p.m.-7 p.m. - Free Samples at Goshen Beverage ($Free tasting samples of beers from Hop City Brewing and Moosehead.)

Wilmington, Del.
Thu. 4/23; 6 p.m.; - Grilled Cheese and Craft Beer Tasting at World Cafe Live ($40 for grilled cheese and craft beer paired together in unexpected and delicious ways. Bring your vegetarian friends, too — we can accommodate them on all pairings.)
Sat. 4/25; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. - Delaware on the Deck at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($PAYG as we open our deck and tap some special beers from Iron Hill and eight Delaware breweries.)



Thursday, April 16, 2015

Weekly Beer Calendar Update: April 16 - April 22

I've only got a few nickels to rub together after yesterday's tax man came a-callin', so I'm going to find some good beer amongst the typically full weekly list of beer events below and have myself a good time. Hope you do too.

As my unofficial analysis goes, I'm not sure that this weekly calendar has ever been such a diverse regional showcase of beer. The list tends to lean inward toward Philly quite a bit, but the calendar makers certainly found much going on from the city to the mountains over the next week — something for everyone, everywhere.

Since this following event with Sly Fox spans days and many miles, I couldn't quite fit it neatly into a city category below, so I'll call it out specially here. Check out the "SRT Spree" along the SRT Trail of the Schuylkill River from tomorrow, Friday, April 17 through Wednesday, April 22. The event serves to announce the arrival of the ale and raise money for the Schuylkill River Trail. Sounds like a whole lot of fun and you don't need to join them from start to finish to partake in the fun.

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.

Adamstown, Pa.
Sat. 4/18; 6 p.m.-10 p.m. - IPA Brew Fest at Stoudts Brewing Company ($35 for IPA tasting, hot and cold buffet, and live music.)

Allentown, Pa.
Sat. 4/18; 8 a.m. - Brew to Brew 10k+ at Fegley's Brew Works ($45-$130 for the first leg of the running challenges to be held at Fegley's, Weyerbacher, and Funk.)

Ardmore, Pa.
Fri. 4/17; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Weyerbacher Tasting at The Beer Shoppe ($Free tasting samples of beers from Weyerbacher.)
Tue. 4/21; 7 p.m. - Spring Beer Dinner at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($85 for a six-course meal paired with Dortmunder, Keezer Saison, Sweet Leaf IPA, Biere de Ard, La Flama Blanca, Belgian Rye, Rauchbier, and Crusher IPA.)

Berwyn, Pa.
Thu. 4/16; 6:30 p.m. - Nibble. Sip. Devour. A Spirited Evening at Nectar ($125 to compare and contrast what Vermont does best with prized Philadelphia-area-creations from local cheesemakers, distillers, and brewers including Forest & Main and Lost Nation Brewing Company from Vermont.)

Cape May, NJ
Sun. 4/19; 9:30 a.m. - A Run To The Taproom at Cape May Brewing Company ($40 for a chip timed 5k to the Taproom of the Cape May Brewing Company.)

Deptford, NJ
Fri. 4/17; 5 p.m. - Philadelphia Brewing Tap Takeover at Pizzeria Uno ($PAYG for Kenzinger, Walt Wit, Fleur, Newbold, Schwarzinger, and a firkin of Hopped Up PPA.)

Dewey Beach, Del.
Sat. 4/18; 1 p.m.-3 p.m. and 5 p.m.-7 p.m. - Dewey Beach Brewfest at Gary's Dewey Beach Grill ($28-$35 for over 30 local and national breweries, plus beer drinking bites, live music, and raffles.)

Ewing, NJ
Sun. 4/19; 3 p.m.-6 p.m. - Cards Against Humanity with NJ Girls Pint Out at River Horse Brewing Company ($15 for a brewery tour, 4 samples of beer, a pint of your choice and unlimited fun.)

Exton, Pa.
Fri. 4/17; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. - Friday Night Samplings at Exton Beverage ($Free tasting samples of Ballantine IPA.)

Lafayette Hill, Pa.
Sat. 4/18; 11 a.m.-3 p.m. - BBQ and Beer Fundraiser at Barren Hill Tavern & Brewery ($35 to support the American Cancer Society and its 43rd annual Bike-A-Thon with great food and select Barren Hill beers.)

Lancaster, Pa.
Sat. 4/18; 3 p.m.-5 p.m. - Saturday Brew Review at Isaac's Pickle Bar ($25 for a four-course meal paired with beers from Victory.)

Malvern, Pa.
Sat. 4/18; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. - Bottoms Up For Prostate Cancer at Desmond Hotel ($60-$209 for beer and wine tastings paired with food to benefit the outreach and education programs of the PA Prostate Cancer Coalition.)

Maple Shade, NJ
Fri. 4/17; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. - Full Nelson Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($PAYG for the single-hopped American IPA.)

Media, Pa.
Thu. 4/16; 4 p.m.-7 p.m. - Lagunitas Day After Tax Day Takeover at Pinocchio's ($PAYG for some tasty stuff and some of the very rare High Westafied.)

Newtown, Pa.
Thu. 4/16; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. - Tap Takeover with Jack's Abby at Isaac Newton’s ($PAYG for Framinghammer Baltic Porter, Saxonator Dunkles Doppelbock, Hoponius Union India Pale Lager - Wicked Hoppy Lager, Jabby Brau Session Lager, Leisure Time Wheat Lager, Smoke & Dagger Black Lager, and Mass Rising Double India Pale Lager.)

Philadelphia, Pa.
Thu. 4/16; 4 p.m. - PA Breweries Night at Barcade ($PAYG for a night of beers from Pennsylvania breweries.)
Thu. 4/16; 7 p.m. - An Evening with Smuttynose at McCrossen's Tavern (7 p.m.; $PAYG for Smuttynose's Smuttlabs Daily Brett, Hayseed, Robust Porter, Kindest Find Imperial Red Ale, and Bouncy House IPA. Joanna Manzo from Smuttynose will be here hanging out, and we'll have some great specials from the kitchen as well.)
Fri. 4/17; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. - Boulevard Smokestack Tasting at Bottle Bar East ($PAYG for beers from the Boulevard Smokestack Series.)
Sat. 4/18; 12 p.m. - Beer Garden Grand Re-Opening and Seventh Anniversary Beer Bash at Memphis Taproom ($PAYG for a brand new truck menu, an awesome canned beer line up, and a whole lot of good times.)
Sat. 4/18; 4 p.m.-8 p.m. - Dogfish Head Record Store Day Party at Johnny Brenda's ($PAYG for DJ's spinning all vinyl and Dogfish Head beers on tap with special raffles.)
Sat. 4/18 and Sat. 4/25; 7:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. - Belgian Beer Experience at Philly Beer School ($47.98 for beer styles of Belgium, including Strong Golden Ales, Wild Fermented Lambics, Monk brews, and more.)
Sun. 4/19; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. - Philadelphia Real Ale Invitational at Yards Brewing Company ($50-$60 for over 40 firkins from breweries all over the country, plus a few from our friends across the pond.)
Mon. 4/20; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 Bottle Shop ($Free tasting samples of beers from Founders.)
Tue. 4/21; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Long Trail Earth Day at The Grey Lodge ($PAYG for Long Trail beers and a seedling (or something) to plant.)
Tue. 4/21; 8 p.m. - Tuesday Tapping at Lucky's Last Chance ($PAYG for Lagunitas Rye Cocoa Porter.)
Wed. 4/22; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. - Long Trail Earth Day at Hop Angel Brauhaus ($PAYG for Long Trail beers and a seedling (or something) to plant.)

Phoenixville, Pa.
Fri. 4/17; 11:30 a.m. - Third Friday Firkin Fest at Sly Fox Brewing Company ($PAYG for a few special beers pouring through the hand pumps.)
Tue. 4/21; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Beer & Chocolate Pairing at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($40 for chocolates from Bridge Street Chocolates paired with Old Ale 2013, English Brown Ale, Ore House IPA, Quadrupel, and Russian Imperial Stout.)

Reading, Pa.
Sat. 4/18; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. - Reading Craft Beer Festival at Santander Arena ($20-$65 for an unlimited sampling of over 100 fresh beers of all colors, styles, and tastes.)

Robbinsville, NJ
Sat. 4/18; 2:30 p.m.-6 p.m. - America On Tap at Robbinsville Field House & Expo Center ($35-$40 for over 100 releases from some of America’s best craft breweries, live music, food available for purchase, and vendors.)

Scranton, Pa.
Thu. 4/16; 8 p.m. - Yards Preview at Backyard Ale House ($PAYG as Yards' own Doug Mashington will be on hand pouring and answering any beer questions.)
Sat. 4/18; 12 p.m.-3:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.-8 p.m. - Electric City Craft Brew Fest at Montage Mountain ($29-$49 for a sampling glass, bottled water, beer info sessions, and over 100 craft beers.)

West Chester, Pa.
Fri. 4/17; 4 p.m.-7 p.m. - Free Samples at Goshen Beverage ($Free tasting samples of beers from Otter Creek.)

Yardley, Pa.
Thu. 4/16; 7 p.m. - Tröegs Beer Dinner at The Yardley Inn ($65 for a five-course meal served with beers from Tröegs.)



Thursday, April 09, 2015

Weekly Beer Calendar Update: April 9 - April 15

Just like the weather, the beer events calendar is heating up. Grab a beer, sit back, and read along for all you need to know about the next week in and around Philly.

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.

Ambler, Pa.
Sun. 4/12; 12 p.m. - 3rd Anniversary Party at Forest & Main ($PAYG for live music and lots of very special beers on tap.)

Ardmore, Pa.
Fri. 4/10; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Sly Fox Tasting at The Beer Shoppe ($Free tasting samples of beers from Sly Fox.)
Sat. 4/11; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. - Ardmore Beer Hall at Ardmore Music Hall ($40 for 60+ craft beers, live music, and food trucks.)

Bloomsburg, Pa.
Sat. 4/11; 7 p.m.-11 p.m. - Taming of the Brew at Caldwell Consistory ($30-$60 for all the food, beer, and entertainment you can enjoy to benefit the Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble.)

Conshohocken, Pa.
Sat. 4/11; 12 p.m. - One Year Anniversary Party at Conshohocken Brewing Company ($PAYG for a trail cleanup, pig roast, a firkin of In Your Ryes, a food truck, and brewery giveaways.)

Exton, Pa.
Fri. 4/10; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. - Friday Night Samplings at Exton Beverage ($Free tasting samples of beers from Redhook.)

Gettysburg, Pa.
Sun. 4/12; 6 p.m. - Head to Tail Dinner at Station Taproom ($100 for a six-course meal paired with Iron Hill Mahalo Apollo, McKenzie Brew House Hallowed Ground Dry Hopped Sour, Funk Brewing Citrus IPA, Tired Hands, Armstrong Ales Raiding Reiver’s Reserve Scotch Ale, and Free Will Ralphius Bourbon Barrel Aged Imperial Stout.)
Tue. 4/14; 6:30 p.m. - Girls Just Wanna Have Suds at Victory Brewing Company ($30 as we host sweets and treats from the Master’s Baker paired with Festbier, Mad King’s Weiss, Deep Cocoa, and Moving Parts 03.)

Gettysburg, Pa.
Sat. 4/11; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. - Firkin Fest on Seminary Ridge at Lutheran Theological Seminary (A lineup of rare, extremely small-batch, and one-off brews and catered cuisine.)

Horsham, Pa.
Thu. 4/9; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. - Game of Thrones Beer Dinner at Iron Abbey ($60 for an authentic candlelight dinner with live music and Game of Thrones inspired menu hosted by Ommegang brewery.)

Hulmeville, Pa.
Thu. 4/9 - Philly Beer Scene Throwdown at Hulmeville Inn ($PAYG as Free Will and Neshaminy Creek bring their best.)
Tue. 4/14 - Summit Brewing Night at Hulmeville Inn ($PAYG to meet the brewers and taste new beers from Summit on tap.)

Kulpsville, Pa.
Sat. 4/11 - Free Will and Tiny Miracles at CJ's Doghouse ($20 for six Free Will beers as part of a larger effort to raise charitable donations for Tiny Miracles Farm and Petcare, a small shelter in Doylestown.)

Lititz, Pa.
Fri. 4/10 & Sat. 4/11 - Cask Ale Festival at Bulls Head Public House ($PAYG to enjoy 18 delicious high quality cask ales and English Breakfast in the Pub.)

Maple Shade, NJ
Fri. 4/10; 6 p.m. - Phightin' Phils Pils Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($PAYG for the northern German Pilsner brewed with traditional German noble hops.)

Media, Pa.
Thu. 4/9; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Ship Bottom Takeover at Pinocchio's ($PAYG for beers from nearby Ship Bottom.)
Fri. 4/10; 4 p.m. - Phightin' Phils Pils Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($PAYG for the northern German Pilsner brewed with traditional German noble hops.)

Philadelphia, Pa.
Thu. 4/9; 12 p.m. - Lunch with Phil Markowski at Monk's Cafe ($50 for a small plate menu paired with beers from Phil Markowski's Two Road Brewing Company.)
Thu. 4/9 - An Evening with the Finest Ladies in Beer (oh and Allagash and Dogfish Head) at Kite & Key ($PAYG as the Pride of Allagash (Suzy) and the Princess of Dogfish Head (Wendy) have put together a lineup that would make the beer Gods proud.)
Fri. 4/10; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. - New Holland Tasting at Bottle Bar East ($PAYG for beers from New Holland.)
Fri. 4/10; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. - Lust Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($PAYG for the release of our rich English stout.)
Sat. 4/11; 1 p.m.-8 p.m. - Great Philadelphia Firkin Stroll at Kite & Key, City Tap House (Logan), Jose Pistola's, Strangeloves, and Varga ($PAYG to enjoy 5 different cask beers at 5 different locations.)
Mon. 4/13; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 Bottle Shop ($Free tasting samples of beers from Flying Fish.)
Mon. 4/13; 7 p.m. - The Inagural Taco & Beer Pairing 6 Course Dinner Extravaganza at Sancho Pistola's ($50 for an amazing gastro-brew-fest that will feature some amazing pairings from Left Hand, Allagash, Dogfish Head, Firestone Walker, Captain Lawrence, and maybe a few surprises.)
Tue. 4/14; 7 p.m. - Philly Beer Scene Award Voting Party at Lucky's Last Chance ($PAYG for a night of special beer and awards.)
Wed. 4/15; 5 p.m. - Hooligan Hour at The Dandelion ($PAYG for an English-style Strong Ale brewed just for The Dandelion.)

Wayne, Pa.
Fri. 4/10 - Lagunitas has a Hillbilly side at Teresa's Next Door ($PAYG for a few fun beers and specialty offerings from Lagunitas as well as the hillybilly picnic special.)
Mon. 4/13 - Jack's Abby at Teresa's Next Door ($PAYG for Jack's Abby's Hoponius Union, Jabby Brau, Leisure Time, Smoke and Dagger, Mass Rising, Calyptra, Sunny Ridge, Saxonator, and Framming Hammer.)

West Chester, Pa.
Fri. 4/10; 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. - Free Samples at Goshen Beverage ($Free tasting samples of beers from Flying Fish.)



Thursday, April 02, 2015

Weekly Beer Calendar Update: April 2 - April 8

As you can see, there was a major oversight on my part not getting this out last week on schedule while I was on the other side of the country. Since there are still some events worth shouting about in the next couple of days, here they are for your reading and drinking pleasure. I'm nothing if not thorough in rectifying my shortcomings.

Plus, a look at what you may have missed and where there may still be leftovers from the past few days. I'll do better with this week's calendar on Thursday, as per usual schedule.

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.
Thu. 4/2; 5:30 p.m. - Meeting of the Malts IV at Allentown Brew Works ($35-$125 for food, beer, and discussion with Dick Yuengling, Jim Koch, Bill Covaleski, and Steve Hindy.)

Bethlehem, Pa.
Thu. 4/2; 5 p.m. - Charity Cask Night at Bethlehem Brew Works ($PAYG where 100% of proceeds from a specially-selected cask will go to Special Hockey of the Lehigh Valley.)

Boyertown, Pa.
Sat. 4/4; 11:45 a.m. - Easter Hopfest at Union Jack's on the Manatawny ($PAYG for around twenty hop-forward beers plus a few others to balance things out.)

Downingtown, Pa.
Fri. 4/3; 5 p.m. - First Friday Firkin at Victory Brewing Company ($PAYG for Summer Love dry hopped with Citra hops.)

Hamilton, NJ
Thu. 4/2; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. - Victory Tap Takeover at Blend Bar & Bistro ($PAYG for bourbon barrel-aged Wee Heavy, Earth & Flame, Summer Love, Moving Parts 03, D’Town Nitro Milk Stout, Prima Pils, and DirtWolf.)

Media, Pa.
Tue. 4/7; 11 a.m. - Session Beer Day at Barren Hill Tavern & Brewery ($PAYG for specials on all beers under 4.5% ABV.)

Media, Pa.
Thu. 4/2; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Starr Hill Sampling at Pinocchio's ($PAYG for beers from Starr Hill.)

Norristown, Pa.
Thu. 4/2; 6 p.m. - Pour It Forward at Capone's ($PAYG as La Trappe will pour 40 free beers on a first come, first serve basis. Money raised from the night and various styles of La Trappe beer will benefit an autism charity.)

Philadelphia, Pa.
Fri. 4/3; 6 p.m. - First Friday Release Party: Firestone Walker/Neshaminy Brewing at Bottle Bar East ($PAYG for beers from Firestone Walker and Neshaminy Creek.)
Sat. 4/4; 11 a.m. - Quad Day at The Grey Lodge ($PAYG for four Belgian style Quad beers on tap.)
Sat. 4/4; 11 a.m.-3 p.m. - Jack & The Beer Stalk Bunch at City Tap House-University City ($PAYG for a moon bounce, a balloonist, and movies for the kids and a lineup of Jack's Abby beers for the adults. Kids under 10 eat free.)
Sat. 4/4; 1 p.m.-6 p.m. - Split Thy Skull at Tattooed Mom's ($PAYG for Philadelphia's longest running barleywine extravaganza.)
Mon. 4/6; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. - Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 Bottle Shop ($Free tasting samples of beers from Lancaster Brewing Company.)
Mon. 4/6; 9 p.m. - Jack's Abby Brewing Launch at Barcade ($PAYG for a launch party for Jack's Abby.)
Tue. 4/7; 8 p.m. - PBW Announcement Party at Lucky's Last Chance ($PAYG as we roll out our 2015 PBW events with Great Lakes and Smuttynose.)
Wed. 4/8; 4 p.m. - Two Roads Brewing Launch at Barcade ($PAYG for a launch party for Two Roads Brewing Company.)
Wed. 4/8; 4 p.m. - St. Benjamin Tap Takeover at Birra ($PAYG for some of our year-round beers as well as a few special seasonals including some saisons and a pale ale.)
Wed. 4/8; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. - Philly Beer Scene Award Voting Party at Devil's Den ($PAYG as Mat Falco from Philly Beer Scene, the brewers from Free Will, and the brewers from Neshaminy Creek roll out the red carpet for a Philly Beer Scene Award Voting Party.)
Wed. 4/8; 7 p.m. - 7 Deadly Sins Beer Dinner at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($70 for a seven-course meal paired with Light Lager, Chili-Infused Brown Ale, Caprice, The Cannibal, Ore House IPA, Oyster Stout, and Snowed In.)

Phoenixville & Pottstown, Pa.
Fri. 4/3; 11:30 a.m. - Incubus Friday at Sly Fox Brewing Company ($PAYG for the Belgian-style Tripel.)

Sellersville, Pa.
Thu. 4/2; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. - First Thursday Tasting at Whole Foods ($Free tasting samples of beers served with small tasting bites of food.)

Sellersville, Pa.
Fri. 4/3; 5 p.m. - Friday Night Beer Tasting at Washington House ($PAYG for Boulevard beers, one of the midwest's finest.)

Wayne, Pa.
Thu. 4/2 - Neshaminy Creek and Free Will at Teresa's Next Door ($PAYG for a few beers from Neshaminy Creek and Free Will to celebrate the upcoming Philly Beer Scene awards.)

West Chester, Pa.
Thu. 4/2; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. - Craft Beer Series: Bell's & Canoe Ridge Wines at The Inn Keeper's Kitchen ($70 for four courses of food paired with beers and wines.)
Fri. 4/3; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. - Craft Beer Series: Stone & Lagunitas at The Inn Keeper's Kitchen ($70 for five courses of food with beers from both Stone and Lagunitas.)
Fri. 4/3; 3 p.m. - Phightin' Phils Pils Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant ($PAYG for the northern German Pilsner brewed with traditional German noble hops.)
Fri. 4/3; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. - Beer Sampling at Goshen Beverage ($Free tasting samples of beers from Kona Brewing Company.)