The New York State Craft Brewers Festival returns to Canalside on Saturday, June 13, bringing together the best of New York’s craft beverage scene for an afternoon of beer, food, music, and community.

Hosted by the New York State Brewers Association, in partnership with the Western New York Brewers Guild, the renowned event will feature more than 50 breweries from across New York State, showcasing unique and award-winning beers of all flavors, providing offerings for both seasoned enthusiasts and those new to craft beer alike.

“The WNY Brewers Guild and the NYS Brewers Association are excited for our annual brewers festival at Canalside in Buffalo in June. We hope to have great weather again and look forward to seeing lots of our friends from all over Western NY enjoying the beer we make.” Said Rob Haag, president of the WNY Brewers Guild. “Most of you know that so much great beer is brewed right here in our backyard. But this festival is also a reminder that it is all brewed by your family, your friends and by your neighbors! Come out and not only support WNY beer, but those hard-working folks who make it as well.”

“One of my favorite events of the year. Great craft beer right on the waterfront!” Jeff Ware, vice president, New York State Brewers Association and CEO, Resurgence Brewing Company.

“We love Canalside and love the craft beer culture in Buffalo, this is why breweries from all over the state travel to this festival to support NYS Craft Beer in Western NY.” Said Paul Leone, executive director, New York State Brewers Association. “This is not your ordinary beer festival, it’s a celebration of community with friends and a time to explore even more award winning beer being made right here”.

Many participating breweries have recently earned top honors at the New York State Craft Beer Competition, including the winner of the 2026 Governor’s Craft Beer Cup, Wild East Brewing Company.

With more than a decade of experience producing festivals across the state, the NYSBA delivers authentic, high-quality craft beer experiences (hosted by the brewers themselves) giving attendees a unique opportunity to meet the people behind the beer.

In addition to craft beer, attendees can also enjoy live music, a food truck rodeo, games, and vendors, plus craft beverage alternatives including hard seltzer, cider, mead, and spirits.

What to Expect:

  • 50+ NYS breweries with unlimited samplings
  • Unique and award-winning beers from across the state
  • Craft beer alternatives including hard seltzer, cider, mead, and spirits
  • Meet the brewers and owners
  • Live music by The Flannel Mafia
  • Food Truck Rodeo
  • Games and interactive experiences

Ticket Options:

  • VIP Experience ($100): Includes a guided Beer & Wing Pairing at Southern Tier Brewing Company before the festival (1 pm), early festival entry (2 pm), exclusive beers, VIP swag and an upgraded festival tasting glass.
  • GA Plus ($65): Early entry at 2 pm with additional perks
  • General Admission ($45): Entry from 3-6 pm, souvenir tasting glass, unlimited samples

A full list of participating breweries, tickets, and additional event details can be found at http://www.thinkNYdrinkNY.com/buffalo.

Festival goers can SAVE $10 when they purchase GA tickets at Resurgence ($40, cash only (price includes tax)).

Proceeds benefit the New York State Brewers Association and the Western New York Brewers Guild, supporting the craft brewing industry through advocacy, education, and promotion.