The Brew Lounge: Beer and Food

Showing posts with label Beer and Food. Show all posts

Friday, September 20, 2024

Beer Dinner with Root Down and East Branch at Brickside Grille; aka A New Brew Lounge post, say what??!!

Oh what a night! What was old is new again and old (more on that in a sec). Thanks to Brickside Grille in Exton (Eagleview), PA, the return of last night’s beer dinner brought out old friends of The Drafting Room, current fans of the Brickside, homebrewers, professional brewers, and a whole room full of Thursday night customers delighted by the beers of East Branch and Root Down Brewing Companies.

Howard Weintraub (co-founding owner and longtime proprietor of the now-shuttered The Drafting Room) emceed the festivities while a variety of speakers from each brewery weighed in with their thoughts on the beer, the pairings, and the evening. The recurring theme throughout each commentary was how genuinely excited they were to be a part of the return of this beer dinner format. Not that they ever went totally away, but we went from many establishments hosting monthly beer dinners 10 years ago to it being quite difficult to find one in 2024.

In my better trained days of Brew Lounging, I’d have come back with pictures of the food, the people, the beers, the room, a who's-who list of those in attendance, and maybe some video of one of the speakers. But I guess I’ve lost my way a bit, just bringing you the pictures of each course. What a treat it was to see a room full of people -- many friends and acquaintances from over the years -- enjoying Pilsner, (nice and filtered clean old-school) West Coast IPA, Altbier, Rosemary Gose, and Oktoberfest matched up thoughtfully and nicely with their plated companions. (the beer styles, btw, is where my "something old" was alluding)

On paper heading into the dinner, I was prepared to award pairing of the night to the Cod and Altbier and, incredible as it well both individually and together, I think the dessert course (Oktoberfest for dessert, I tell ya!) edge it out by an apple stem. The malt and spices played so nicely together and was so seasonally appropriate with autumnal weather just around the corner and nights already beginning to feel just a bit of chill in the air.

While I don’t foresee anyone (yet) going back to monthly beer dinners, I think last night's feel-good enthusiasm and turnout shows that there truly is a place for these dinners. I did throw in my two cents suggesting that a quarterly beer dinner focused on the seasonal styles of beer and the seasonally appropriate and available dinner ingredients would make for what I would imagine would be eagerly anticipated showcases of food and beer.

© Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge, 2024. All content is owned and uniquely created by Bryan J. Kolesar. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from Kolesar is strictly prohibited. Excerpts, images, and links may be used with advance permission granted and only provided that full and clear credit is given to Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. Contact Kolesar at TheBrewLounge@gmail.com

Friday, August 16, 2019

Staying local at Monk's

I've been at this thing for almost 14 years now, officially on the record, that is, with The Brew Lounge, etc. These Monk's dinners which were once a standard, reliable nearly on a monthly basis for a while, are much more infrequently spaced out during the year. But, the excellence remains.

So while Monk's has maintained its standing in the city's (and country's) beer scene, there's just one thing I can boast as having improved on my end - the pictures. Well, actually, I suppose I have nearly nothing to do with it. It's all in the technology. Think about the St. Feuillien dinner that I referenced the other day that dated back to my first piece here in September 2005. No smart phones. And digital cameras were just growing up.

The pictures never did neither the food nor the beer any respect. I think this batch here from Tuesday night earlier this week at Monk's shows just how far we've come in this area. But, I digress...as is my tendency. Tom Peters kicked off the dinner in everyone's favorite back room at Monk's by thanking all who came and the local food and beer providers behind the dinner's all-local theme.

In the past, the local beers to select from were much less in number and, well, some in quality. That number, as we all know, as skyrocketed and the choices are limitless, except for some still with quality issues which can be discussed elsewhere.

For this meal, Tom and his team settled on an excellent lineup that included Sterling Pig Shoat Pilsner to begin the evening, followed by Second District's Rustic AF, Brewery Techne Haiku, Tired Hands Gatherer, and Yards Bourbon barrel-aged Thomas Jefferson Porter. Stoudts rounded out the meal pairing its new Sauer Sauce with the dessert course. Peaches, baby!

I've gone on for paragraphs in the past carefully detailing each course and yada, yada, yada. But, since I've lost any rhythm that I used to have here with regular postings, I'm just gonna get these pictures out to you of each course and pick a winner. Not one pairing disappointed, not even in the least. But when forced to pick my favorite of the evening, it had to be the sweet and savory Bone Marrow Bread Pudding (with apricot and pluots) served along with Brewery Techne's Haiku, which had been kettle soured with Montmorency Cherries. Think about that for a second and then go to your kitchen and see what you can round up for dinner tonight. Cheers!

(Shoat and Cantaloupe Gazpacho)

(Rustic AF with Jersey Golden Tilefish)

(Haiku with Bone Marrow Bread Pudding)

(Gatherer with Organic Chicken)

(Washington Porter with Birchrun Blue and Finger Lakes Gold Reserve cheese plate)

(Sauer Sauce with Peach Ice Cream & Shortcake)

© Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge, 2019. All content is owned and uniquely created by Bryan J. Kolesar. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from Kolesar is strictly prohibited. Excerpts, images, and links may be used with advance permission granted and only provided that full and clear credit is given to Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. Contact Kolesar at TheBrewLounge@gmail.com

Monday, August 12, 2019

Back to Monk's Cafe for dinner

Let's see if this thing still works. In all probability, I put too much "material" on social media that could instead make for better-reading blog posts here. But I'm beyond apologies; it's the way these days, it seems.

Enough hand-wringing. Let's talk about Monk's Cafe. Let's talk about how tomorrow, Tues. 8/13, will not only be the day that would mark my father's 96th birthday (!), it will also mark exactly 13 years and 11 months since I got things going with my first post here on The Brew Lounge.

It happened to be an epic beer dinner at Monk's with Dominque Friart and her St. Feuillen brewery in Belgium. By all accounts, it was the typically excellent beer dinner that Monk's had been and is known for in pairing foods and beers. My writing, on the other hand, was a bit raw now in hindsight. But it led to better writing, networking, embedding myself in the industry, writing for numerous print and online outlets, including my Beer Lover's Mid-Atlantic 416-page book covering the best of the region.

I bring this up because tomorrow night sees Monk's putting on another display of carefully considered beer and food pairings -- this one, featuring all things local on the plate and in the glass. Beers to be featured will come from Brewery Techne, Second District, Sterling Pig, Stoudts, Tired Hands, and Yards.

Beer dinners had reached, oh five or so years ago, the point of being a dime a dozen. Everyone wanted a piece of the action, though the best stood out head and shoulders above the rest. Some of the most usual suspects doing it well, like Monk's and all Iron Hill locations, have let these special, fixed price dinners mostly fade from the event calendar. At least, let's say, they're no longer held on a regular basis. Suppose it's just a sign of today's consumer preferences, but I'll still miss them and helps me look even more forward to what awaits at 7 p.m. tomorrow night.

I was in the back room at Monk's this past Saturday late night for the dessert course of a progressive dinner around the city. The pecan pie and Firestone Walker Parabola had me instantly anxious to return in three nights. If I do things right, you'll be able to check back later with my breakdown of Tuesday evening's tastes, sights, and sounds.

Thursday, January 24, 2019

Weekly Beer Event Calendar Update: Philadelphia & beyond: January 24 - January 31

Cold enough for you? These beer events are hot. Go warm yourself up.

Click through here for a look at the full monthly calendar of beer events around the Philadelphia region and over here for a look at Philly Tap Finder's event draft lists.

Audubon, Pa.

Tue. 1/29; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bugs & Brews — A Fly Tying Workshop at Bald Birds Brewing Company [You can bring your own tools or borrow some from us. Either way, we’ll provide the materials and instruction and you’ll walk away with a few bright and shiny lures. $10-$15]

Bear, Del.

Sat. 1/26; 12 p.m.-4 p.m. — Oysterfest at Grain Craft Bar + Kitchen [Five different oyster regions. Five different breweries. Live music and a buffet make for a great afternoon. $49]

Berwyn, Pa.

Tue. 1/29; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Brewery Ticket Sale Date at La Cabra Brewing Company [Each book contains tickets redeemable for a free beer at each brewery between January 1 and September 2, 2019. All proceeds from the book sales will go directly to helping build decent housing for families in Chester County. $40]

Bethlehem, Pa.

Sun. 1/27; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. — All Grain Brewing Class at Keystone Homebrew Supply [We will go over the different types of base grains, mashing, sparging, chilling, recipe formulation, yeast starters, and some light water chemistry. Lunch will be provided. $75]

Cherry Hill, NJ

Sun. 1/27; 12 p.m.-8 p.m. — Spice of Life — Register To Be An Organ Donor & Can Release at Forgotten Boardwalk Brewing Company [For the first time, we will be releasing Lady #8 - our What the Butler Saw conditioned with watermelon, basil & a blend of spicy peppers in 16oz, 4 pack cans. We will have a kiosk on site where you can register to be an organ donor on the spot, please bring your drivers license. $PAYG]

Croydon, Pa.

Sat. 2/9; 12 p.m.-7 p.m. — Trenton Punk Rock Flea Market: My Punk Rock Valentine at Neshaminy Creek Brewing Company [Featuring over 130+ different, unique, hand-picked vendors accounting for over 180+ tables, the area’s finest food trucks a full line of Neshaminy Creek beers on tap w/drink specials all day, and the legendary TPRFM Black Swag Bags to the first 100 punks in line. $5]

Downingtown, Pa.

Sun. 2/10; 12 p.m.-4 p.m. — Victory Chili Challenge at Victory Brewing Company [In true tradition, the Chili Challenge is a competition between members of Team Victory and it’s open to the public to enjoy and help choose the winner of the coveted People's Pepper. $PAYG]

Easton, Pa.

Sat. 1/26 & Sun. 1/27; Times vary — Super Barrel Weekend at The Tap Room at Weyerbacher [Tasty twists on some of your favorite Weyerbacher beers, as well as some experimental and trial batches. $35]

Horsham, Pa.

Thu. 1/31; 7 p.m.-11 p.m. — Stable 12 and Iron Abbey’s Fear Me Lords Bottle Tapping and Release at Iron Abbey [Fear Me Lords is a 12% Limited Edition Imperial Stout aged in our Maker’s Mark Private Select Barrel with coffee, cocoa nibs, and Madagascar vanilla. $PAYG]

Lancaster, Pa.

Thu. 1/24; All day — National Beer Can Appreciation Day Party at Spring House Brewing Company [The first canned beer was sold on January 24, 1935. We'll have freshly canned 4 and 6-packs on special, including a brand new beer. We'll also have food specials, and prizes for playing Beer Ball. $PAYG]

Sat. 2/9; All day — Winterfest 2019 at Hunger N Thirst [We have been cellaring some kegs since we opened our doors and are looking forward to seeing some of the results. $PAYG]

Leola, Pa.

Thu. 1/24; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Dogfish Head Tap Attack at Funck's [Dogfish Head is colliding with our taps for a huge Tap Attack. They will be releasing some new brews, some cores you love and much more. $PAYG]

Fri. 1/25; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Evolution Happy Hour Party at Funck's [We will have $3 Evolution Rise Up drafts and giving out some swag while supplies last. $PAYG]

Lititz, Pa.

Thu. 1/24; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bell's Hopslam Ale Event at Bulls Head Public House [Join us as we tap Hopslam Double IPA. We will also have a firkin of their Two Hearted IPA, Winter White Witbier, and Larry's Latest Quad on tap. Hannah from Bell's will also be on hand to give autographs, take pictures with your baby, and most importantly, hand out beer swag. $PAYG]

Media, Pa.

Thu. 1/31; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Fat Head's Head of Special Hoperations at Pinocchio's [We'll be hanging with our own Head of Special Hoperations, Andrew. $PAYG]

Newtown, Pa.

Sat. 1/26; All day — Russian River Tap Event at Isaac Newton's [Details TBA. $PAYG]

Sat. 2/9; 12:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. — Bucks Brewfest 101 at Bucks County Community College [As many as 70 different drafts of all styles will be offered, along with great music, awesome food, and just a good time. 100% of the proceeds benefit educational scholarships for Bucks County Community College. $10-$45]

Oxford, Pa.

Sun. 1/27; 1 p.m. — Girl Scout Cookie Pairing at Bog Turtle Brewery [We are combining your favorite Bog Turtle beer with some of your favorite Girl Scout cookies for a guided pairing at the brewery. $25]

Perkasie, Pa.

Sun. 1/27; 11:30 a.m.-8 p.m. — Sour Sunday 2019 #1 at Free Will Brewing Company [We fill our tap lines with an eclectic array of offerings from our 17,000 sq.ft. subterranean Sour Cellar. Think sours, saisons, spontaneous, wild ales, and all things funky. $PAYG]

Philadelphia, Pa.

Sat. 1/26; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. — BRB Brunch at Mainstay Independent Brewing Co. [Say goodbye (for now) to the Mainstay Tasting Room with a killer jazz brunch as we gear up for Craft Hall's Grand Opening. Your ticket include Lost Bread & City Creek Barbeque brunch buffet, 2 draught beers, and a bottle of Bemuse (this will be the release). $30]

Sat. 1/26; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — Brews With The Bullies at Yards Brewing Company [This very special event will include a very special appearance from The Broad Street Bullies who will serve Yards Beers to guests. Your ticket includes 2 hours of all Yards beers on tap, Unlimited Wine, and Appetizers. $60]

Sun. 1/27; All day — Sour Bowl V at Brü Craft & Wurst, U-Bahn, Cinder, and Tradesman's [Sour Bowl, Stout Bowl, Cider Bowl, Philly Bowl. Take your pick. $PAYG]

Tue. 1/29; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — Trivia on Tap with Stateside & 2SP at Pizzeria Vetri-Chancellor Street [Gather your brainiest buds for Trivia on Tap with our special guests from 2SP Brewing Company. $PAYG]

Wed. 1/30; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — Yards Brewing — Meet The Owner at Interstate Drafthouse [We are proud to be hosting Yards Brewing and featuring a few of their fantastic ales on our tap lines for this event. Tom Kehoe, the brewery's founder, will be in attendance as well, making this event a little extra special. $PAYG]

Fri. 2/1 & Sat. 2/2; Various times — Winter Craft Beer & Cocktail Festival at 23rd Street Armory [This winter-themed festival comes complete with unlimited samples from 30+ breweries, delicious local food trucks, 15+ specialty drinks, live entertainment, games and contests, festive lights & decor, and tons of other fun activities in the spirit of the winter season. $14.95-$59.95]

Sat. 2/2; 7 a.m.-2 p.m. — Groundhog Day Hawaiian Shirt Beer Breakfast at Grey Lodge Pub [We Pennsylvanians believe very strongly in rodent based weather forecasting, so we assemble at The Grey Lodge every Groundhog Day at 7 a.m. to catch Punxsutawney Phil's prognostication. To chase away the winter blues, we wear our best/worst Hawaiian shirts and have a Beer Breakfast. Later in the morning we kick off more oddity as Groundhog Day turns into Lucky Cat Day. Lucky Cat Day features Wissinoming Winnie's Beer Prognostication and other fun stuff. $PAYG]

Sat. 2/9; 1 p.m.-6 p.m. — Beer Brewing Program, Level Two at Philly Beer School [In this program, the student learns to develop beer recipes and brew all-grain beers. $175-$225]

Phoenixville, Pa.

Wed. Jan. 30; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at Steel City Coffeehouse & Brewery [Come celebrate with us and the Phoenixville Regional Chamber of Commerce for the opening of our brewery. Stop by and get to know our Head Brewer Seth Clearwater, Manatawny Still Works, Maple Springs Vineyard, Hobo Ed's Railyard Roastery, and many others.

Kitchen will be open and new menu items will be available. $PAYG]

Wednesdays Jan. 9 through Mar. 17; All day — Boot Camp at Sly Fox Brewing Company [Complete 8 Boot Camp evenings and your stamped ID card will earn you 10 additional raffle tickets and a limited edition Boot Camp t-shirt when it becomes available. On St. Patrick's Day a lucky Sly Fox patron will win a trip to Ireland. $PAYG]

Tue. 2/5; 6 p.m.-10 p.m. — Brewery Ticket Sale Date at Rec Room [Each book contains tickets redeemable for a free beer at each brewery between January 1 and September 2, 2019. All proceeds from the book sales will go directly to helping build decent housing for families in Chester County. $40]

Sat. 2/16; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — Brewery Ticket Sale Date at Crowded Castle Brewing Company [Each book contains tickets redeemable for a free beer at each brewery between January 1 and September 2, 2019. All proceeds from the book sales will go directly to helping build decent housing for families in Chester County. $40]

Pottstown, Pa.

Thursdays Jan. 10 through Mar. 17; All day — Boot Camp at Sly Fox Brewing Company [Complete 8 Boot Camp evenings and your stamped ID card will earn you 10 additional raffle tickets and a limited edition Boot Camp t-shirt when it becomes available. On St. Patrick's Day a lucky Sly Fox patron will win a trip to Ireland. $PAYG]

Reading, Pa.

Sun. 2/10; All day — Dark Beer Day VI at Liberty Taproom [We already have an unbelievable list and there are sure to be some additions as we close in on the date. $PAYG]

Sellersville, Pa.

Thu. 1/31; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — 2SP Brewery Beer Tasting at J.T. Bankers [Beer tasting from 2SP along with our 3-course Thursday dinners and $1 off all craft beer. Free pint glass with your purchase of a 2SP beer. $PAYG]

Fri. 2/1; 5 p.m. — Beer Tasting: Weyerbacker Brewing at Washington House [Sample a selection of these "huge beers" with strong complex flavors. Join us every first Friday for a themed Beer Tasting. $PAYG]

Stroudsburg, Pa.

Sat. 1/26; 12 p.m.-4:30 p.m. — Pocono Winter Beerfest at Sherman Theater [With over 100 beer selections to enjoy with more food, vendors, and space than ever before, experience the concert-style Beerfest. $35-$50]

Wayne, Pa.

Sat. 2/2; All day — Super Bowl Saturday Draft Extravaganza at Teresa's Next Door [Every year we put on a list of some of the best beers in the world and this year will be no different. $PAYG]

West Chester, Pa.

Fri. 1/25; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Beer Tasting at Goshen Beverage [Tasting samples of beers from Southern Tier. $Free]

Fri. 1/25; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — Craft Beer Series: Dogfish Brewery at Dilworthtown Inn [A special selection of the fine craft beers from Dogfish Head to celebrate the begining of 2019 including Liquid Truth Serum, Flesh & Blood, Pennsylvania Tuxedo, and 120 Minute IPA. $82]

Fri. 2/8; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — Craft Beer Series: North & South at Dilworthtown Inn [Many great beers from above and below the Mason-Dixon line beers battle it out, including Dogfish Head Namaste White, Cigar City Florida Cracker White Ale, Lawson's Super Session IPA, Terrapin Hash Session, New Trail Broken Heels, Evolution Craft Lot 3 IPA, Jack's Abby Smoke & Dagger, Duck-Rabbit Porter, Brooklyn Black Chocolate Stout, and Hardywood Raspberry Stout. $82]

Thursday, January 17, 2019

Weekly Beer Event Calendar Update: Philadelphia & beyond: January 17 - January 23

Next up: Beer! Next question: Where? Here are your answers.

Click through here for a look at the full monthly calendar of beer events around the Philadelphia region and over here for a look at Philly Tap Finder's event draft lists.

Berwyn, Pa.

Tue. 1/22; 5 p.m. — January Can Release at La Cabra Brewing Company [Clement (8%) DIPA brewed with Galaxy, Citra, Chinook, and Lactose. $PAYG]

Bethlehem, Pa.

Sat. 1/19; 2 p.m.-5 p.m. — Intro To Brewing Class at Keystone Homebrew Supply [We will go over all of the equipment necessary to get started homebrewing, and how they all function. Sanitation, ingredients, brewing, and bottling will all be covered with a live demonstration of each. $30]

Emmaus, Pa.

Sun. 1/20; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Dinner & Beer Pairing at Yergey Brewing Company [Join us in the taproom for an evening of fabulous dinner by Local Mama Catering Company paired with our delicious Yergey Brewing beers. Each of the three courses will be complemented by an 8-ounce pour. $65]

Huntingdon Valley, Pa.

Sun. 1/20; 4 p.m.-5 p.m. — Sunday School at Moss Mill Brewing Company [Get your education on. We'll be teaching small classes at the brewery select Sundays. No charge, limited to the first 10 that sign-up. $Free]

Kennett Square, Pa.

Sat. 1/19; 12 p.m.-4 p.m. — Oysterfest at Grain Craft Bar + Kitchen [Five different oyster regions. Five different breweries. Live music and a buffet make for a great afternoon. $49]

Lancaster, Pa.

Thu. 1/17; 5 p.m.-10 p.m. — Crooked Stave at Hunger N Thirst [We have always had a deep appreciation for all of the sour and wild ales out there, and Crooked Stave is right at the top of that list. $PAYG]

Malvern, Pa.

Fri. 1/18; 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. — Brewery Ticket Sale Date at Locust Lane Craft Brewery [Each book contains tickets redeemable for a free beer at each brewery between January 1 and September 2, 2019. All proceeds from the book sales will go directly to helping build decent housing for families in Chester County. $40]

Middletown, Pa.

Tue. 1/22; 7 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — Viking Dinner at Tattered Flag Brewing Company [Join us for our Viking Dinner hosted by Tattered Flag's Master Distiller Daniel Kulick and Johlene Riley. The dinner will feature a period specific menu (prepared by Tattered Flag's Executive Chef Ty Teter), Tattered Flag Beer/Spirits, and mead from Larsen Meadworks. $35-$75]

Milford, Del.

Sat. 1/19; 12 p.m.-3 p.m. — Beer Release: Threat Level Purple and Holy Crap at Mispillion River Brewing Company [Two beers. Both related to the end of the world. Meet: The Beers of the Apocalypse. $PAYG]

Montgomeryville, Pa.

Sat. 1/19; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. — All Grain Brewing Class at Keystone Homebrew Supply [We will go over the different types of base grains, mashing, sparging, chilling, recipe formulation, yeast starters, and some light water chemistry. Lunch will be provided. $75]

Philadelphia, Pa.

Thu. 1/17; All day — Winter Beer Night at Barcade [We’re featuring a dozen rare and/or vintage kegs from our favorite breweries near and far.Donate a winter coat and get one free beer per coat. $PAYG]

Thu. 1/17; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — Trust The Process at Devil's Den [Join us for the one of the only kegs of Trust the Process by Evil Genius Brewing to hit the city. We will be tapping this to watch the Sixers beat the Pacers. $PAYG]

Fri. 1/18; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Moss Mill Meet & Greet at Grey Lodge Pub [Come out and meet the folks from Moss Mill Brewing. $PAYG]

Sat. 1/19; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. — Resilience Fundraiser for the Camp Fire Relief Fund at Monk's Café [Join us for a show of strength and unity with our friends in California! One Hundred Percent of all draft sales of 25 amazing beers will be donated to the Camp Fire Relief Fund. We're featuring Sierra Nevada Resilience Butte County Proud IPA, as well as a slew of whales from Sierra Nevada, Allagash, Cantillon, Tilquin, and more. We are donating every dollar of every draft, and as such, this event is Cash Only. $PAYG]

Sun. 1/20; 3 p.m.-4 p.m. — Cheese and Beer Pairing at Evil Genius Brewing Company [Beer and Cheese pairing with our brewer Matt Lally. Each guest will receive 4 5oz pours of house selected Evil Genius beer paired with four kinds of cheese. $PAYG]

Wed. 1/23; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — River Horse Brewing Mocha Lisa Porter Can Release at Garage-Fishtown [First time available in Philly. $PAYG]

Wed. 1/23; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. — Beer Fest at World Café Live [We’re shaking things up this year for World Cafe Live’s 15th Annual Beer Fest! Along with a fresh look, you can expect new food, new merch, and new entertainment. As always, we’ll be pouring seasonals, year-round offerings, and rarities from over 30 local, national, and international breweries. Also new for 2019, an entire section of the festival will be dedicated to Philly-area independent breweries. $60-$80]

Phoenixville, Pa.

Sat. 1/19; 5:30 p.m.-11:30 p.m. — Robert Burns Birthday Celebration at Sly Fox Brewing Company [Gang Aft Agley Scotch Ale and Burns Scottish Ale will be pouring, the bagpipes will be piping and the arrival of the Haggis (6:30pm) will be marked by Ian Turnbull's reading of Burns' Ode to a Haggis. $PAYG]

Wed. 1/23; 6 p.m.-10 p.m. — Brewery Ticket Sale Date at Stable 12 Brewing Company [Each book contains tickets redeemable for a free beer at each brewery between January 1 and September 2, 2019. All proceeds from the book sales will go directly to helping build decent housing for families in Chester County. $40]

Pottstown, Pa.

Swarthmore, Pa.

Fri. 1/18; 5 p.m.-10 p.m. — Tröegs "First Squeeze" w/ Nitro Nugget Nectar at 320 Market Café [Nugget will be freshly on tap, along with Mad Elf and Blizzard of Hops. And don’t forget everyone’s favorite...Nugget Nectar on nitro. $PAYG]

Voorhees, NJ

Sat. 1/19; 12 p.m.-4 p.m. — Keep Calm and Have Beer and Girl Scout Cookies Multi-Tap at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [We're sticking to our New Year's resolution... to pair beers with Girl Scout Cookies. $PAYG]

West Chester, Pa.

Fri. 1/18; 4:30 p.m.- 6:30 p.m. — Beer Tasting at Goshen Beverage [Tasting samples of beers from Dogfish Head. $Free]

Thursday, January 10, 2019

Weekly Beer Event Calendar Update: Philadelphia & beyond: January 10 - January 16

Looking good, tasting good thus far in the new year.

Click through here for a look at the full monthly calendar of beer events around the Philadelphia region and over here for a look at Philly Tap Finder's event draft lists.

Ardmore, Pa.

Sat. 1/12; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. — Winter Beer Festival at Ardmore Music Hall [50+ craft brew tastings, live music, and bites. $15-$45]

Burlington, NJ

Thu. 1/10; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Spellbound Brewery Beer Dinner at Brickwall Tavern [A four-course beer dinner with pairings from our friends at Spellbound Brewery including: Brut IPA; Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Ale; Cherry Belgian Tripel; South Jersey Double IPA; and Palo Santo Porter (special cask). $60]

Cape May, NJ

Fri. 1/11; 12 p.m.-8 p.m. — Draft and Can Release: Snag & Drop at Cape May Brewing Company [Dank and resinous, Snag & Drop is a lupulin-laden beast, a 10% Triple IPA. $PAYG]

Fri. 1/11; 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — Beer Dinner Series: Slack Tide Brewing at Slack Tide Brewing Company [Join us in the Sunset Lounge of the Cape May terminal for a fun, relaxing night of dining and drinking featuring a selection of local Cape May County craft beers from Slack Tide Brewing Company, paired with an incredible full course menu from Chef George Galati. $66]

Croydon, Pa.

Fri. 1/11; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Pint Night: Long Trail Brewing at Dog and Bull [A food and beer package featuring beers from Long Trail. $20]

Fri. 1/11; 7 p.m. — Charity Movie Night: The Fifth Element at Neshaminy Creek Brewing Company [Proceeds to benefit the Tookany/Tacony-Frankford Watershed Partnership, Inc. $PAYG]

Downingtown, Pa.

Wed. 1/16; 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — Tröegs Nugget Nectar 3 Ways at Bottle Room [Tröegs is once again releasing their juicy, delectable Nugget Nectar! We'll be serving it up 3 ways: on draft, on nitro, and in a firkin! Come by and chat with the rep and pick up some cool Tröegs swag. $PAYG]

Ewing Township, NJ

Sat. 1/12; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — 2019 Cask Fest at River Horse Brewing Company [We're tapping over 20 specialty casks, some traditional favorites, but also many new creations that we've never tried before. $20]

Exton, Pa.

Fri. 1/11; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Friday Night Sampling at Exton Beverage Company [Tasting samples from Evil Twin Brewing. $Free]

Hatboro, Pa.

Sat. 1/12; 12 p.m. — K-9 Fundraiser at Crooked Eye Brewery [In honor of our newest canine member, “Louie” (Badge #59), Crooked Eye will be releasing “K9 #59” in support of our program. All proceeds from this craft brew sold on this date will be donated to the canine program. $PAYG]

King of Prussia, Pa.

Fri. 1/11; 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. — Beer Dinner with Conshohocken at Mistral [A five-course meal paired with Conshohocken Brewing's Cistra(sy) Unfiltered IPA, Winter Madness Belgian Style Amber, MC5 Unfiltered IPA, Puddler's Row, and Mr. Robusto Robust Winter Porter. $55]

Leola, Pa.

Thu. 1/10; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Evil Genius, New Brew, New You at Funck's [Join Us in teaming with Evil Genius Brewery to try some new beers for the new year. We will be having the new and exciting mixed with your favorites. $PAYG]

Montgomeryville, Pa.

Sat. 1/12; 3 p.m.-7 p.m. — Intro To Brewing Class at Keystone Homebrew Supply [We will go over all of the equipment necessary to get started homebrewing, and how they all function. Sanitation, ingredients, brewing, and bottling will all be covered with a live demonstration of each. $30]

Perkasie, Pa.

Wed. 1/16; 6 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — Barrel-aged Beer Pairing at Free Will Brewing Company [Join us for a relaxed evening in the Free Will Sour Cellar as we take some of your favorite barrel-aged selections and pair them with delectable offerings prepared by Tim and Brad with Tre' Locally Sourced. $65]

Philadelphia, Pa.

Thu. 1/10; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Tröegs First Squeeze at Standard Tap [We will be doing the first tapping of Nugget Nectar three ways — Draft, Nitro, and Firkin. Local Philly artist @hhablak will be in the building signing prints along with @sam_heimer from 2018 and @hkrall from 2017. We will also be pouring Sunshine Pils and Blizzard of Hops. $PAYG]

Thu. 1/10; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — An Evening With Bell's Brewery at Interstate Drafthouse [We will be working in the weeks to come on finalizing a great tap lineup that showcases a variety of the fantastic beers these craft beer legends continue to produce. $PAYG]

Fri. 1/11; 10 p.m. — Drink, Drink, Drain Your Glass: A David Bowie Tribute Night at Memphis Taproom [Join us for a night of celebrating the life, music, and art of David Bowie on the 3rd anniversary of his passing on January 10, 2016. $PAYG]

Sat. 1/12; 12 p.m.-4:30 p.m. — Hair Of The Dog Brewing at Brü Craft & Wurst [We've been around for about six years, and this marks the first time that we've been able to obtain draft from this talented outfit. To celebrate, we'll be tapping eight different beers, and selling each at a discount - with flights. $PAYG]

Sat. 1/12; 1 p.m.-6 p.m. — Winterfest Live at Xfinity Live [Listen to live bands all day with unlimited samplings of 150+ great beers from 75+ breweries. Plus, Gluten Free Beer and hard cider options will be available. Hang with us for a day filled with live DJs, amazing bands, super-fun contests in Victory Beer Hall, outdoor fire pits, games, activities, prizes, and giveaways. $45-$60]

Sat. 1/12; 1 p.m.-6 p.m. — Beer Brewing Program, Level One at Philly Beer School [A brewer-instructor will guide you through the process step by step: from brew to boil to bottle. By the end of the second day of class, you will be bottling your own hand-crafted beer. And leaving with all the knowledge you need to start brewing at home. $150-$200]

Sun. 1/13; 2 p.m.-10 p.m. — Barrel House Sour Sunday at Roy-Pitz Barrel House [We’ll crack the vault on our Nice Dreams bottle archive and have discounted all sour flights. Head Brewer Chris Collier will be on hand to give tours of our sour barrel program and will be pulling nails on in progress barrels to give you the full experience of the rare wood aged beers. $PAYG]

Tue. 1/15; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Tuesday Tapping with Terrapin Brewing at Lucky's Last Chance (Manayunk) [Featuring Salted Caramel Imperial Moo-Hoo. $PAYG]

Tue. 1/15; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Tuesday Tapping with Terrapin Brewing at Lucky's Last Chance (Queen Village) [Featuring Salted Caramel Imperial Moo-Hoo. $PAYG]

Wed. 1/16; 7:30 p.m. — Game of Thrones Beer Tasting at Bainbridge Street Barrel House [Come to get “Inside the Barrel”: quench your Game of Thrones thirst on the four full goblet pours of the Ommegang Game of Thrones beer series. These unique beers will be discussed in a class on how they are made and what’s behind the flavor profiles; class led by rep extraordinaire, Chris Dolhancryk. $30]

Phoenixville, Pa.

Pottstown, Pa.

Wayne, Pa.

Tue. 1/15; 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. — Connecticut Valley Brewing Mini-Tap Takeover at Teresa's Next Door [We’ll be pouring five different beers including Trailblazer NE Double IPA, Stargazer NE IPA, Coffee stout Obsession, Currant Fascination Sour, and Double Wasp Dopplebock. $PAYG]

Wernersville, Pa.

Thu. 1/10; 4 p.m.-9 p.m. — Tröegs Nugget Nectar 2019 Kickoff at Paradise by the Slice [We will be tapping regular Nugget Nectar, Nitro Nugget, and more incredible Tröegs beers. Free glass with sampler and more. $PAYG]

West Chester, Pa.

Thu. 1/10; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Beer Tasting at Goshen Beverage [Tasting samples of beers from New Belgium. $Free]

Thu. 1/10; 6 p.m.-11 p.m. — Triple Can Release at Levante Brewing Company [Tropical Whip Pineapple Sundae IPA, Death by Tickle Triple IPA, and Bogart Blondie imperial pastry stout. No wristbands, no limit on cans. $PAYG]

Sat. 1/12; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — Craft Beer Series: Maine Brewing at Dilworthtown Inn [A special selection of the fine craft beers from Maine Brewing to celebrate the begining of 2019, including Zoe, Another One, Lunch, Mean Uncle Tom, , and Post Ride Snack. $82]

West Reading, Pa.

Thu. 1/10; 5 p.m.-10 p.m. — Brothers Kershner Tap Takeover at Barley Mow Craft Beer House [Come Join us and our friends at Brothers Kershner Brewing and we can enjoy a pint (or four) together. $PAYG]

Tuesday, January 08, 2019

Beer Event Calendar: Philadelphia & beyond: What To Do in January 2019

Am I late with this January calendar of beer events? Well, maybe just a bit, eh? You see, I've been raising this puppy and the dog ate my beer calendar! Since you didn't come here for excuses or dog stories (though, you can bet you'll see this pup featured at future outdoor beer events), let's get to what's remaining in January. If you haven't been out since the turn of the calendar, you haven't missed too much yet. And the best is still to come, headed up by a bunch of Nugget Nectar hitting the taps and shelves.

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
Tue. 1/8; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Tuesday Tapping with Oliver Brewing at Lucky's Last Chance (Manayunk) in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Tue. 1/8; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Tuesday Tapping with Oliver Brewing at Lucky's Last Chance (Queen Village) in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Wed. 1/9; 5 p.m.-11 p.m. — Tröegs First Squeeze Nugget Nectar Release at Kite & Key in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 1/10; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — An Evening With Bell's Brewery at Interstate Drafthouse in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 1/10; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Tröegs First Squeeze at Standard Tap in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 1/11; 10 p.m. — Drink, Drink, Drain Your Glass: A David Bowie Tribute Night at Memphis Taproom in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 1/12; 12 p.m.-4:30 p.m. — Hair Of The Dog Brewing at Brü Craft & Wurst in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 1/13; 2 p.m.-10 p.m. — Barrel House Sour Sunday at Roy-Pitz Barrel House in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Tue. 1/15; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Tuesday Tapping with Terrapin Brewing at Lucky's Last Chance (Manayunk) in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Tue. 1/15; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Tuesday Tapping with Terrapin Brewing at Lucky's Last Chance (Queen Village) in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 1/17; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — Trust The Process at Devil's Den in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 1/17; All day — Winter Beer Night at Barcade in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 1/18; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Moss Mill Meet & Greet at Grey Lodge Pub in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 1/19; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. — Resilience Fundraiser for the Camp Fire Relief Fund at Monk's Café in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 1/20; 3 p.m.-4 p.m. — Cheese and Beer Pairing at Evil Genius Brewing Company in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Wed. 1/23; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — River Horse Brewing Mocha Lisa Porter Can Release at Garage-Fishtown in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 1/27; All day — Sour Bowl V, Stout Bowl, Cider Bowl, Philly Bowl at Brü Craft & Wurst, U-Bahn, Cinder, and Tradesman's in in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Tue. 1/29; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — Trivia on Tap with Stateside & 2SP at Pizzeria Vetri-Chancellor Street in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Wed. 1/30; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — Yards Brewing — Meet The Owner at Interstate Drafthouse in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]

after January in Philadelphia
Sat. 2/2; 7 a.m.-2 p.m. — Groundhog Day Hawaiian Shirt Beer Breakfast at Grey Lodge Pub [We Pennsylvanians believe very strongly in rodent based weather forecasting, so we assemble at The Grey Lodge every Groundhog Day at 7 a.m. to catch Punxsutawney Phil's prognostication. To chase away the winter blues, we wear our best/worst Hawaiian shirts and have a Beer Breakfast. Later in the morning we kick off more oddity as Groundhog Day turns into Lucky Cat Day. Lucky Cat Day features Wissinoming Winnie's Beer Prognostication and other fun stuff. $PAYG]

Philadelphia's close suburbs (within 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Fri. 1/11; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Pint Night: Long Trail Brewing at Dog and Bull in Croydon, Pa. [$20]
Fri. 1/11; 7 p.m. — Charity Movie Night: The Fifth Element at Neshaminy Creek Brewing Company in Croydon, Pa. [$PAYG]
Tue. 1/15; 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. — Connecticut Valley Brewing Mini-Tap Takeover at Teresa's Next Door in Wayne, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 1/18; 5 p.m.-10 p.m. — Tröegs "First Squeeze" w/ Nitro Nugget Nectar at 320 Market Café in Swarthmore, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 1/20; 4 p.m.-5 p.m. — Sunday School at Moss Mill Brewing Company in Huntingdon Valley, Pa. [$Free]
Sun. 1/27; 12 p.m.-8 p.m. — Spice of Life — Register To Be An Organ Donor & Can Release at Forgotten Boardwalk Brewing Company in Cherry Hill, NJ [$PAYG]
Thu. 1/31; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Fat Head's Head of Special Hoperations at Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 1/31; 7 p.m.-11 p.m. — Stable 12 and Iron Abbey’s Fear Me Lords Bottle Tapping and Release at Iron Abbey in Horsham, Pa. [$PAYG]

after January in Philadelphia's close suburbs
Fri. 2/1; 5 p.m. — Beer Tasting: Weyerbacker Brewing at Washington House in Sellersville, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 2/2; All day — Super Bowl Saturday Draft Extravaganza at Teresa's Next Door in Wayne, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 2/9; 12 p.m.-7 p.m. — Trenton Punk Rock Flea Market: My Punk Rock Valentine at Neshaminy Creek Brewing Company in Croydon, Pa. [$5]

Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other (beyond 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Wed. 1/9; 12 p.m. — Birthday Donation Party for Charity at Bottle Room in Downingtown, Pa. [$PAYG]
Wednesdays Jan. 9 through Mar. 17; All day — Boot Camp at Sly Fox Brewing Company in Phoenixville, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 1/10; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Beer Tasting at Goshen Beverage in West Chester, Pa. [$Free]
Thu. 1/10; 4 p.m.-9 p.m. — Tröegs Nugget Nectar 2019 Kickoff at Paradise by the Slice in Wernersville, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 1/10; 5 p.m.-10 p.m. — Brothers Kershner Tap Takeover at Barley Mow Craft Beer House in West Reading, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 1/10; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Evil Genius, New Brew, New You at Funck's in Leola, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 1/10; 6 p.m.-11 p.m. — Triple Can Release at Levante Brewing Company in West Chester, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thursdays Jan. 10 through Mar. 17; All day — Boot Camp at Sly Fox Brewing Company in Pottstown, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 1/11; 12 p.m.-8 p.m. — Draft and Can Release: Snag & Drop at Cape May Brewing Company in Cape May, NJ [$PAYG]
Fri. 1/11; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Friday Night Sampling at Exton Beverage Company in Exton, Pa. [$Free]
Sat. 1/12; 12 p.m. — K-9 Fundraiser at Crooked Eye Brewery in Hatboro, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 1/12; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — 2019 Cask Fest at River Horse Brewing Company in Ewing Township, NJ [$20]
Wed. 1/16; 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — Tröegs Nugget Nectar 3 Ways at Bottle Room in Downingtown, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 1/17; 5 p.m.-10 p.m. — Crooked Stave at Hunger N Thirst in Lancaster, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 1/18; 4:30 p.m.- 6:30 p.m. — Beer Tasting at Goshen Beverage in West Chester, Pa. [$Free]
Sat. 1/19; 12 p.m.-3 p.m. — Beer Release: Threat Level Purple and Holy Crap at Mispillion River Brewing Company in Milford, Del. [$PAYG]
Sat. 1/19; 12 p.m.-4 p.m. — Keep Calm and Have Beer and Girl Scout Cookies Multi-Tap at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Voorhees, NJ [$PAYG]
Sat. 1/19; 5:30 p.m.-11:30 p.m. — Robert Burns Birthday Celebration at Sly Fox Brewing Company in Phoenixville, Pa. [$PAYG]
Tue. 1/22; 5 p.m. — January Can Release at La Cabra Brewing Company in Berwyn, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 1/24; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Dogfish Head Tap Attack at Funck's in Leola, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 1/24; All day — National Beer Can Appreciation Day Party at Spring House Brewing Company in Lancaster, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 1/25; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Evolution Happy Hour Party at Funck's in Leola, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 1/25; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Beer Tasting at Goshen Beverage in West Chester, Pa. [$Free]
Sat. 1/26; All day — Russian River Tap Event at Isaac Newton's in Newtown, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 1/27; 11:30 a.m.-8 p.m. — Sour Sunday 2019 #1 at Free Will Brewing Company in Perkasie, Pa. [$PAYG]
Tue. 1/29; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bugs & Brews — A Fly Tying Workshop at Bald Birds Brewing Company in Audubon, Pa. [$10-$15]
Thu. 1/31; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — 2SP Brewery Beer Tasting at J.T. Bankers in Sellersville, Pa. [$PAYG]

after January in Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other
Sat. 2/9; All day — Winterfest 2019 at Hunger N Thirst in Lancaster, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 2/10; 12 p.m.-4 p.m. — Victory Chili Challenge at Victory Brewing Company in Downingtown, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 2/10; All day — Dark Beer Day VI at Liberty Taproom in Reading, Pa. [$PAYG]

Events Over $20

Philadelphia
Sat. 1/12; 1 p.m.-6 p.m. — Beer Brewing Program, Level One at Philly Beer School in Philadelphia, Pa. [$150-$200]
Wed. 1/16; 7:30 p.m. — Game of Thrones Beer Tasting at Bainbridge Street Barrel House in Philadelphia, Pa. [$30]
Wed. 1/23; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. — Beer Fest at World Café Live in Philadelphia, Pa. [$60-$80]
Sat. 1/26; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. — BRB Brunch at Mainstay Independent Brewing Co. in Philadelphia, Pa. [$30]
Sat. 1/26; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — Brews With The Bullies at Yards Brewing Company in Philadelphia, Pa. [$60]

after January in Philadelphia
Fri. 2/1 & Sat. 2/2; Various times — Winter Craft Beer & Cocktail Festival at 23rd Street Armory in Philadelphia, Pa. [$14.95-$59.95]
Sat. 2/9; 1 p.m.-6 p.m. — Beer Brewing Program, Level Two at Philly Beer School in Philadelphia, Pa. [$175-$225]

Philadelphia's close suburbs (within 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Mon. Jan. 7 through Wed. Jan. 9; 7 p.m. — Cigar & Beer Dinner at Dog and Bull in Croydon, Pa. [$60]
Thu. 1/10; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Spellbound Brewery Beer Dinner at Brickwall Tavern in Burlington, NJ [$60]
Sat. 1/12; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. — Winter Beer Festival at Ardmore Music Hall in Ardmore, Pa. [$15-$45]
Sat. 1/12; 3 p.m.-7 p.m. — Intro To Brewing Class at Keystone Homebrew Supply in Montgomeryville, Pa. [$30]
Sat. 1/19; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. — All Grain Brewing Class at Keystone Homebrew Supply in Montgomeryville, Pa. [$75]

Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other (beyond 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Fri. 1/11; 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. — Beer Dinner with Conshohocken at Mistral in King of Prussia, Pa. [$55]
Fri. 1/11; 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — Beer Dinner Series: Slack Tide Brewing at Slack Tide Brewing Company in Cape May, NJ [$66]
Sat. 1/12; 1 p.m.-6 p.m. — Winterfest Live at Xfinity Live in Philadelphia, Pa. [$45-$60]
Sat. 1/12; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — Craft Beer Series: Maine Brewing at Dilworthtown Inn in West Chester, Pa. [$82]
Wed. 1/16; 6 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — Barrel-aged Beer Pairing at Free Will Brewing Company in Perkasie, Pa. [$65]
Fri. 1/18; 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. — Brewery Ticket Sale Date at Locust Lane Craft Brewery in Malvern, Pa. [$40]
Sat. 1/19; 12 p.m.-4 p.m. — Oysterfest at Grain Craft Bar + Kitchen in Kennett Square, Pa. [$49]
Sat. 1/19; 2 p.m.-5 p.m. — Intro To Brewing Class at Keystone Homebrew Supply in Bethlehem, Pa. [$30]
Sun. 1/20; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Dinner & Beer Pairing at Yergey Brewing Company in Emmaus, Pa. [$65]
Tue. 1/22; 7 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — Viking Dinner at Tattered Flag Brewing Company in Middletown, Pa. [$35-$75]
Wed. 1/23; 6 p.m.-10 p.m. — Brewery Ticket Sale Date at Stable 12 Brewing Company in Phoenixville, Pa. [$40]
Fri. 1/25; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — Craft Beer Series: Dogfish Brewery at Dilworthtown Inn in West Chester, Pa. [$82]
Sat. 1/26; 12 p.m.-4 p.m. — Oysterfest at Grain Craft Bar + Kitchen in Bear, Del. [$49]
Sat. 1/26; 12 p.m.-4:30 p.m. — Pocono Winter Beerfest at Sherman Theater in Stroudsburg, Pa. [$35-$50]
Sat. 1/26 & Sun. 1/27; Times vary — Super Barrel Weekend at The Tap Room at Weyerbacher in Easton, Pa. [$35]
Sun. 1/27; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. — All Grain Brewing Class at Keystone Homebrew Supply in Bethlehem, Pa. [$75]
Sun. 1/27; 1 p.m. — Girl Scout Cookie Pairing at Bog Turtle Brewery in Oxford, Pa. [$25]
Tue. 1/29; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Brewery Ticket Sale Date at La Cabra Brewing Company in Berwyn, Pa. [$40]

after January in Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other
Tue. 2/5; 6 p.m.-10 p.m. — Brewery Ticket Sale Date at Rec Room in Phoenixville, Pa. [$40]
Fri. 2/8; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — Craft Beer Series: North & South at Dilworthtown Inn in West Chester, Pa. [$82]
Sat. 2/9; 12:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. — Bucks Brewfest 101 at Bucks County Community College in Newtown, Pa. [$10-$45]
Sat. 2/16; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — Brewery Ticket Sale Date at Crowded Castle Brewing Company in Phoenixville, Pa. [$40]

Thursday, December 20, 2018

Weekly Beer Event Calendar Update: Philadelphia & beyond: December 20 - December 31

If "all you want for Christmas is" ...beer, this list should serve you well. My friends, it's been another interesting year in beer. No matter what you celebrate — Festivus included! — I wish you good friends and family, cheers, and beers. Thanks to your continued support, the event calendar will continue in 2019.

Click through here for a look at the full monthly calendar of beer events around the Philadelphia region and over here for a look at Philly Tap Finder's event draft lists.

Ardmore, Pa.

Sat. 1/12; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. — Winter Beer Festival at Ardmore Music Hall [50+ craft brew tastings, live music, and bites. $15-$5]

Boyertown, Pa.

Sat. 12/29; All day — Hoppy Holidays at Union Jack's On The Manatawny [Nothing makes the holiday season better than a dozen or so overly hopped, dank, and juicy IPAs. $PAYG]

Easton, Pa.

Sat. 12/22; 12 p.m.-8 p.m. — Ugly Sweater Party at The Tap Room at Weyerbacher [We’ll be giving a case of beer to the best (worst) ugly sweater – winner will be announced at 6:30 p.m. $PAYG]

Exton, Pa.

Fri. 12/21; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Friday Night Sampling at Exton Beverage Company [Sampling of beers from Tröegs. $Free]

Horsham, Pa.

Wed. 12/26; 7 a.m. — Boxing Day at Iron Abbey [Enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet from 7:30 a.m.-8:30 a.m. plus $4 Guinness and Bloody Mary, $5 Hofbrau 1/2 liter, and $9 Hofbrau liters while watching the games starting at 10 a.m. $PAYG]

Huntingdon Valley, Pa.

Sat. 12/29; 12 p.m. — Fire And Ice Fest at Moss Mill Brewing Company [Bring your friends to hang out in our heated tents, roast s'mores over our fire pits and stare in amazement at our live ice sculptors. $PAYG]

King of Prussia, Pa.

Mon. 12/31; 3 p.m.-7 p.m. — German New Year's Eve Party at Workhorse Brewing Company [Our party will be a little different than others: for one, we’ll be ringing in the New Year at 6 p.m. EST, or more appropriately, Midnight in Germany. There will be an open bar, German food, limited edition Workhorse beer stein, live music and games, a toast at midnight, and tours of the brewery. $45-$90]

Philadelphia, Pa.

Fri. 12/21; 3 p.m. — Featured Sampling at Bell Beverage [Sampling of beers from Bell's. $Free]

Fri. 12/21; 4 p.m.-10 p.m. — Bell's Winter Solstice at City Tap House (Logan Square) [We are celebrating the longest and darkest night of the winter with special tappings of Bell's Christmas Ale, Lampshade Double IPA, & Bourbon Aged Expedition Stout, along with some favorites and rarities. $PAYG]

Sat. 12/22; 7:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — Beer America at Philly Beer School [If you are a beer aficionado, or want to be one, this is a class for you. We have written a road map to the great breweries all around the country, and this is our way of sharing it with you. It’s an irreverent but informative a guide to craft beer across the United States. $51-$89]

Sun. 12/23; 5 p.m.-10 p.m. — Festivus at Grey Lodge Pub [We celebrate Festivus the traditional, old fashioned way with all the trimmings including the beautiful unadorned aluminum pole, a meatloaf dinner, and Feats of Strength. We finally have a fruitcake to display (but not eat). And it wouldn't be a Grey Lodge event without great beer. We will have a greatest hits of Christmas seasonals. $PAYG]

Wed. 12/26; All day — Boxing Day at Memphis Taproom [Featuring some of our favorite Christmas beers as well as our all time favorites. Every Boxing Day we donate a portion of our sales to a local charity. This year's recipient is South Jersey Rescue. $PAYG]

Phoenixville, Pa.

Sat. 12/22; 7 p.m. — Ugly Sweater Party at Bistro on Bridge [Our Ugly Sweater Party tradition continues with an evening full of prizes, music, Ugly Sweaters and a delicious selection of Tröegs Independent Brewing seasonal beers. $PAYG]

Wayne, Pa.

Fri. 12/21; 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. — Welcome Mainstay Independent Brewing at Teresa's Next Door [You may know the name Brian O’Reilly from the last 20 years of brewing in the Philadelphia area. He even has a nitro stout named after him. Well, he is now the head brewer with a brand new spot in Philadelphia called Mainstay Independent Brewing. We’ll have Brian out and have 5 different beers on draft including King Laird, Harness Bend, First Run, Birthplace and Poplar Pilsner. $PAYG]

Westmont, NJ

Thu. 12/20; 8 p.m.-10 p.m. — Deck The Halls With Ugly Sweaters & Holiday Gift Wrapping Party at Keg & Kitchen [Bring your unwrapped gifts and wrap them in holiday cheer while enjoying a Yards beer. Scissors, tape, ribbons, papers, and all kinds of gift wrapping accessories will be provided. There will also be a prize for the best-wrapped gift. Plus, the best sweater will win a $40 gift card to Keg & Kitchen. $PAYG]

Woodbury, NJ

Fri. 12/21; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Dark Signal & Parlor Car Release at Eight & Sand [Parlor Car is our first Brut IPA - super dry and effervescent, almost champagne-like but with loads of hop character. We also brought back Dark Signal, our Black IPA with Centennial, Cascade, and Columbus hops lending a subtle citrus nose to complement the hints chocolate. $PAYG]

© Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge, 2018. All content is owned and uniquely created by Bryan J. Kolesar. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from Kolesar is strictly prohibited. Excerpts, images, and links may be used with advance permission granted and only provided that full and clear credit is given to Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. Contact Kolesar at TheBrewLounge@gmail.com