Free Canalside Shuttle Runs Through Sept. 28

Explore everything Buffalo’s waterfront has to offer with Canalside’s free shuttle service, which runs through Sept. 28. There are eight stops along the shuttle route – Perry Street and Commercial St., Lloyd St. and Prime St., Prime and Perry (Resurgence Brewing at Canalside), Michigan St. and Scott St. (Hofbrauhaus), Scott and Washington St. (Southern Tier Brewing Buffalo, Pizza Plant / Pod City Beer Labs, Other Half Brewing Buffalo, Pearl Street Brewery), Marine Drive and Wilkeson Way. The shuttle runs in a continuous loop with an estimated 15 minutes between stops. The shuttle runs Friday through Sunday, 12 – 10 pm.

Hofbrauhaus to Tap Hopfenweizen for June

June’s barrel tapping at Hofbrauhaus Buffalo will feature the return of their Hopfenweizen on June 4. If you’re new to this style, this is a 6.5% hazy beer with a thick white head, fruity and tropical aromas, and notes of pithy orange and pineapple juice with a clean bitterness. The hops used are all new-world (Citra, El Dorado and Simcoe) and the yeast is Hofbrauhaus’ hefeweizen yeast, which has been manipulated to mute the bubblegum, banana and clove character. Julie Starr of Buddy’s Second Chance Rescue will serve as the honorary Burgermeister – a traditional parade through the beer hall will begin at 6 pm, followed by a barrel tapping. There will also be a special dog adoption event in the Biergarten. Reservations can be made via Resy or www.hofbrauhausbuffalo.com.

Batavia’s Eli Fish Brewing Turns 8 This Weekend

Eli Fish Brewing is turning eight on May 30 and the brewery is pulling out all the stops to celebrate. Starting at 11 am, the first 100 people will receive free “Beer For A Year,” there will be food specials, live music from The Brewers, pong and cornhole tournaments, the annual Great Fish Race (4 pm), and plenty of fresh beer to fill your glass. Special anniversary beer releases include Octodecim Ascendant (19.2% Double Barrel Aged Imperial Stout), Josephine (6% Barrel Aged Rustic Farmhouse Saison), Barrel Aged Heavy Maple 2025 (11.5% Maple Wee Heavy aged in Hollerhorn Maple Spirit Barrels), Mango Pillow Talk (5.5% Saison with Mango), Talking Walls (7% New England IPA with Cascade, Citra, Chinook, and Centennial hops) and Azacca What I Need (6% NEIPA with Azacca and Citra hops). Eli Fish will also have 6-pack 12oz. cans of Reel Lite American Light Lager for sale. The anniversary party is free and open to the public.

Water Street Brewing Coming Soon To Jamestown

Water Street Brewing Company is coming soon to Jamestown at 137 Water Street. While there isn’t much information as of yet on the new space, construction is currently ongoing. The brewery said on Facebook, “We’ve been busy creating a place centered on craft beer, good food, and a moody, yet elevated, atmosphere. There’s plenty more to share with you as we get closer…construction is still underway and we will keep sharing progress as we go.” There is currently no timeline for opening. Stay tuned for updates on Water Street Brewing’s Facebook page.

Rusty Nickel Brewing’s 11th Anniversary Party

Join Rusty Nickel Brewing on June 6 (12 – 11 pm) as they celebrate the beginning of their second decade in business in West Seneca. The 11th Anniversary Party will feature live music, local vendors, exclusive beer, including fan favorites from the past and seasonal releases, tastings, food specials, including a chicken BBQ, new summer merchandise and more. The live music lineup includes performances from UnderCover and more. The event is free and open to the public. Reservations are not required, as plenty of seating will be available, but they are recommended for bigger parties. Those can be made by calling (716) 608-6155.

Brian Campbell is co-founder and Brand Manager of the Buffalo Beer League, and writes the weekly Buffalo Beer Buzz column. If you have beer news that should be included in the Beer Buzz, Brian can be reached at brian@buffalobeerleague.com, on X (@buffbeerleague), Instagram, Threads and Untappd (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

The post Buffalo Beer Buzz: Canalside Shuttle, Eli Fish, Rusty Nickel Anniversaries, Hofbrauhaus Hopfenweizen, Water Street Brewing appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Big Ditch Brewing Brings Back Lock IPA Series Favorite

New York Beer Project Releases First Ever Lambic-Style Ale

Surge Into Summer at Resurgence Brewing

Olean’s Four Mile Brewing to Relaunch in June

Flying Bison Night at the Ballpark at Sahlen Field

The post Buffalo Beer Buzz: Big Ditch Fip, NYBP Peche Spon, Surge Into Summer at Resurgence, Four Mile Relaunch, Flying Bison Night at the Ballpark appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Wines in the Wild Returns to the Buffalo Zoo

Wines in the Wild returns to the Buffalo Zoo on June 18 (5-8 pm). The special event features beverage and food sampling from local wineries, cideries, meaderies and breweries, as well as live music, special appearances from the Zoo’s animal ambassadors and more, all spread throughout the grounds of the Buffalo Zoo. Funds raised from Wines in the Wild will go directly to supporting the Buffalo Zoo’s mission of creating connections and saving wildlife. Ticketing information will be announced in the coming weeks. You can find more information at Buffalozoo.org.

Maifest Returns to Spring Garden Park in East Aurora

Maifest returns May 24 (12 pm) to Spring Garden Park, located at 3838 Two Rod Road in East Aurora, will feature a specially brewed Maibock, a German lager that is paler and more hop-centric than traditional bock beers, from Buffalo Brewing Company. There will be a keg tapping ceremony at 1:15 pm, a special guest appearance by The Caledonian Pipe Band and SGTV Edelweiss Dancers, and live music from The Beer Fest Boys at 2 pm. The park opens at noon and food will be available at 1 pm. Admission is $6. Visit springarden.com for more information.

Resurgence Brewing 2026 Pints in the Park Schedule

Resurgence Brewing is bringing back Pints in the Park for the 2026 season beginning on Saturday, May 30. This free event series features pop-up beer gardens in parks around Western New York with Resurgence’s mobile beer trailer serving beer, cider, seltzer, and more, food trucks, live music, lawn games, vendors, and family-friendly activities. Pints in the Park will take place on select Fridays and Saturdays throughout the summer. A full schedule can be found here. Guests are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair.

42 North Brewing Brings Back Wallonia Wit

One of 42 North Brewing’s classic brews, Wallonia Wit, is back at the brewery. The return of the 5.4% Belgian Wit features a new twist featuring New York State ingredients, pilsner malt, wheat, and NYS Vista hops. “Our brewery customers have requested we bring this back for years and with the growing trend of lower AVB, but still flavorful, beers, it was time to return back to our roots,” 42 North owner John Cimperman said. Wallonia Wit is available at 42 North taprooms on draft, as well as in cans wherever great craft beer is sold.

Rusty Nickel to Officially Open Beer Garden May 20

One of the true jewels of the Western New York craft beer scene can be found out back behind Rusty Nickel Brewing in West Seneca. The brewery has put a lot of effort into upgrading their backyard over the years, making it a great place to enjoy a pint. You can experience the space for yourself beginning on May 20 (6-9 pm), when the beer garden opens for the season. Rusty Nickel will have seasonal brews and cocktails, yard games such as cornhole, and fire pits and s’mores to enjoy. In the event of severe weather, a rain date will be announced. The event is free and open to the public.

Big Ditch Brewing Drops New Rice Lager

Big Ditch Brewing has released a new limited release Yuzu Rice Lager. This beer, originally brewed as a pilot batch for the brewery’s 9th anniversary party, is brewed with rice for a light body and ultra-crisp finish with a vibrant lift from the addition of yuzu, which adds bright citrus character and subtle white grape notes. Yuzu Rice Lager is available on tap at both Big Ditch taprooms.

Brian Campbell is co-founder and Brand Manager of the Buffalo Beer League, and writes the weekly Buffalo Beer Buzz column. If you have beer news that should be included in the Beer Buzz, Brian can be reached at brian@buffalobeerleague.com, on X (@buffbeerleague), Instagram, Threads and Untappd (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

The post Buffalo Beer Buzz: Wines in the Wild, Maifest, Pints in the Park, New Beers From 42 North & Big Ditch, appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Kleinhans Rhythm & Brews Fundraiser Returns May 8

Kleinhans Music Hall’s annual fundraiser, Rhythm and Brews, returns on Friday, May 8 (6 pm). Proceeds from the event will benefit Kleinhans programming, including the Global Grooves music series, as well as building upkeep. The event will feature tastings from local breweries and cideries, food from Schutte Hospitality Group eateries such as Oliver’s, Britesmith, Creekview Restaurant and Marcato by Oliver’s and live music from Dominic Missana & Friends. Tickets include music, all beer and cider tastings, food, a commemorative glass and a donation to Kleinhans. General admission tickets ($65) are available online, at the Kleinhans box office, or by calling 715-885-5000.

Steelbound Brewery in Ellicottville Closed Through May 21

Steelbound has announced that its flagship taproom in Ellicottville will be closed through May 21 for a deep clean of the space and upgrades to the restaurant. “We’re making some exciting improvements at Steelbound Brewery & Distillery Ellicottville,” the brewery said. “But don’t worry, we’ll be back on May 21st and ready to serve you even better.” In the meantime, Steelbound also has locations in Springville, Dunkirk and Williamsville. They will also open a new space in Niagara Falls on May 12. The new space will be located at the Sheraton Niagara Falls on Old Falls Street.

The Blue Monk Is Coming Back This Summer

The Terrace at Delaware Park is once again bringing back iconic Elmwood Avenue watering hole The Blue Monk, Buffalo’s long-beloved Belgian beer bar, on June 6 (6 pm). Tickets for the Blue Monk Revival are $50 and include samplings of a selection of Blue Monk’s favorite cuisine and a complimentary glass, as well as curated beer selections. There will also be live music and appearances by guest bartenders from the Blue Monk. Tickets are limited and can be purchased here. The Blue Monk closed their doors in 2016.

BriarBrothers Brewing Bangs The Drum With Warpath Lager

With the Buffalo Sabres winning their first playoff series in nearly two decades, Briarbrothers Brewing is looking to fill our fridges full for the next round with the release of Warpath Lager, a balanced and light bodied 5% American lager with subtle hops and a crackery malt backbone. “Warpath was brewed to mirror the kind of midseason surge that Buffalo hockey fans know so well,” Briarbrothers’ Joel Betti said. “This beer is a nod to that push forward, to resilience, and to the belief that if you keep showing up and putting in the effort, good things are ahead.” Warpath is available at the Briarbrothers taproom on draft and in cans to go.

Return of the (Local) Bock in Western New York

It’s that time of year – it’s Maibock season! And local breweries are heeding the call. Literally translated to May Bock, the German lager is a counterpart to heavier bocks typically released in the fall and winter. Wayland Brewing has released Vogel, a 6.5% light Amber lager with aromas of figs, light esters and toasted bread, notes of noble hop bitterness and caramel malt character. It’s available on draft and in cans. Buffalo Brewing Company has two new releases – Schreiber Bock Beer, a 6% Maibock, and Simon Bock. Both are available in cans and Schreiber Bock is also on Lukr faucet at the taproom. Hofbrauhaus’ Maibock features wildflower honey and sweet malt aromas with strong malt notes, a smooth finish and a touch of hop acidity. The best food pairings for Maibocks are grilled sausages and bratwursts, roast chicken and pork and sharp cheeses.

Brian Campbell is co-founder and Brand Manager of the Buffalo Beer League, and writes the weekly Buffalo Beer Buzz column. If you have beer news that should be included in the Beer Buzz, Brian can be reached at brian@buffalobeerleague.com, on X (@buffbeerleague), Instagram, Threads and Untappd (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

The post Buffalo Beer Buzz: Rhythm & Brews, Maibock Season, BriarBrothers Warpath Lager, Blue Monk Revival, Steelbound Closes For Renovations appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Cinco de Mayo Bar Crawl in Clarence Hollow

Clarence Hollow’s Cinco de Mayo Bar Crawl takes place on Saturday, May 2 after the 2nd Annual Bob Lenz Memorial 5K Run/Walk. Enjoy festive themes plus food and drink specials at participating bars and restaurants in Clarence Hollow, including Shalooby Loofer Brewing, Morluski’s, This Little Pig, The Hollow Bistro and Brew and Humbert House. Shalooby Loofer will feature buy-one get-one 1/2 off pints and $5 marg-ALE-ritas and BREW-jitos. Bar Crawl Passports are required to redeem Cinco de Mayo food and drink specials at participating bars (all registered 5K Run/Walk participants receive a complimentary passport).

Southern Tier Drops Throwback Beers for One Night Only

Don’t Call It A Comeback, because for one night only, on May 2 (11 am), at Southern Tier Brewing’s homebase of the Empty Pint in Lakewood, the brewery is resurrecting a number of defunct beers from their catalog, including Lake Shore Fog, 2XStout, Gemini, Chautauqua Lager, PMX, Raspberry Wheat, and possibly even more. All of these beers will be available on draft for a limited time. There will be live music from Dark Water Duo (1-4pm) and Honky Tonk Heroes (6-9pm), special food features and more. The event is free and open to the public.

Cider Week New York Returns

Cider Week New York returns from Saturday, May 2 through Sunday, May 10, with events happening across the state. The event brings together cider lovers, cidermakers, chefs and retailers in a shared appreciation for the craft and culture of cider. New this year is the NY Cider Passport, a new interactive experience that features digital badges, in-depth cidery information, member perks and discounts at participating cideries and NY Cider events and more. The passport is $50 for the year, but there is a special discounted rate of $40 during Cider Week. The event is presented by the New York Cider Association. You can learn more at www.newyorkcider.org.

Hofbrauhaus Maibock May Barrel Tapping

Hofbrauhaus will host their May barrel tapping on May 7 (6 pm) with Maibock with Honorary Burgermeister Richard Pyszczek, commissioner of the Erie County 250th Commission and NYS250 Commission, alongside Chris Kramer, vice president of the General Pulaski Association. Maibock features wildflower honey and sweet malt aromas with strong malt notes, a smooth finish and a touch of hop acidity. All guests (21 & over) in attendance will receive a free sample of the beer. For reservations, visit www.hofbrauhausbuffalo.com.

Mortalis Brewing To Releases Beers For May The 4^th

Mortalis Brewing is celebrating May The 4^th with a pair of beer releases – Hydra (Blue Milk) and Mangolorian & Grogu (Double Milkshake IPA) – on Thursday, April 30. Hydra (Blue Milk) is fruited smoothie sour with blue raspberry, strawberry, pineapple, cream, and coconut, and Mangolorian & Grogu is a Double IPA brewed with Citra, New Zealand Cascade, and Mosaic hops, as well as mango puree, vanilla, and milk sugar. Mortalis will also release Allen’s Vacation Double IPA, Gaia (Krush) Double IPA and Second Breakfast New Zealand Pilsner. All beers will be available in 4-pack 16oz. cans.

Brian Campbell is co-founder and Brand Manager of the Buffalo Beer League, and writes the weekly Buffalo Beer Buzz column. If you have beer news that should be included in the Beer Buzz, Brian can be reached at brian@buffalobeerleague.com, on X (@buffbeerleague), Instagram, Threads and Untappd (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

The post Buffalo Beer Buzz: Cinco de Mayo Bar Crawl, Hofbrauhaus Maibock, Cider Week, Southern Tier Don’t Call It A Comeback, Mortalis May The 4th Beer appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Ellicottville Brewing to Open Bemus Point Location April 24

In a surefire sign of spring and summer in Western New York, Ellicottville Brewing is opening their Bemus Point location on April 24. The taproom, located on Chautauqua Lake, will be open Friday, April 24 (4-9 pm), Saturday, April 25 (12-9 pm), and Sunday, April 26 (12-4 pm). And in honor of opening weekend, there will be live music with Jade Giambrone (6-9 pm on Friday), a bar-exclusive Happy Hour from 4-6 pm ($5 draft beer and wine) and EBC Seltzer tasting on Saturday (2–4 pm, 6–8 pm). EBC Bemus Point is located at 57 Lakeside Drive.

Limited Tickets Remain For This Weekend’s CollaBEERation Festival

One of the most unique Western New York beer festivals, CollaBEERation, takes place this weekend, Saturday, April 25, at The Powerhouse, and a limited amount of tickets still remain. The event features craft beer, cider, mead and more created by members of the Buffalo Beer Geeks community, who teamed up with more than 50 participating Western New York craft venues to create innovative beverages for the event. A number of those collaborative brews have been announced and can be found here. You can also find out more about the event on the official preview podcast with WNY Brews. General admission tickets ($70, includes unlimited pours and commemorative glass) can be purchased here.

Thin Man To Brew New Blue Raspberry Minkey Boodle

Thin Man Brewery recently held a March Madness-inspired tournament to choose the next variant of their popular Minkey Boodle fruited sour and Blue Raspberry was the flavor that reigned supreme of the field of sixteen possible flavor combinations. Blue Raspberry beat out Raspberry Grapefruit, Raspberry Blackberry, Raspberry Kiwi, Raspberry Vanilla, Raspberry Kumquat, Raspberry Blueberry, Raspberry Lemon, Raspberry Peach, Raspberry Cherry, Raspberry Plum, Raspberry Strawberry, Raspberry Apricot, Raspberry Mango, and Raspberry Guava. Blue Raspberry Minkey Boodle will be available on cans and in draft at Chandler Street Breweries in May.

Cabin Fever Beer & Wine Fest This Saturday

The Cabin Fever, Beer and Wine Festival returns to the Buffalo Ski Center/Tamarack Lodge in Colden on April 25 (4-7 pm). The event features tastings from breweries such as Resurgence Brewing, Hamburg Brewing, Big Ditch Brewing, 42 North Brewing, Southern Tier, New York Beer Project, Ellicottville Brewing, Pressure Drop Brewing, Rusty Nickel, Mystic Hills, First Line Brewing and more, as well as meaderies, wineries and distilleries, live music from The Young Relics, raffles, giveaways, auctions, food and more. Tickets are $40 presale and $50 day of and include a commemorative tasting glass, access to all tastings and more. Tickets can be purchased here.

Zwanze Day Returns to Buffalo at Moor Room April 25

As if there wasn’t enough great beer happenings on Saturday, April 25, Zwanze Day, the ultimate day of appreciation for the Lambic beer style, is making a return to Buffalo at Moor Room (3 pm). The event was created by world-renowned Brasserie-Brouwerij Cantillon, who are featuring two very special brews this year – Artemis La Blanche, a blend of gentian, coriander, rhubarb root, juniper, sage, Angelica, wormwood and more, blended with Lambic, and Artemis La Rouge, a blend of verbena, marjoram, rose, apple, curry plant, wormwood and other herbs, blended with Kriek. Both beers will be available at Moor Room, along with Cantillon’s Classic Gueuze, Cuvee Saint-Gilloise, Saint Lamvinus and Vigneronne, along with other special brews from around the country. Tickets still remain for $75, which includes a large pour of both Zwanze beers, a 5oz pour of Cantillon Gueuze and Cantillon Vigneronne and a Zwanze day glass.

Five & 20 Brewing Drops New Beers, Launches Mug Club

Westfield’s Five & 20 Brewing has released a trio of draft-only releases at the their taproom, including a Mint Chocolate Cookie Imperial Stout, Spring Fling, a Berliner Weisse with melon-infused black tea, and (I Like It When You Call Me) Big Hoppa, a hazy 5.4% East Coast IPA brewed with wheat and oats, as well as Cascade, El Dorado, Jaryllo and Galaxy hops.

The brewery has also launched a new mug club – open to 50 members. The club costs $75 (plus tax) and you can sign-up online or in the taproom. Perks include discounts on draft beer, 16oz. ceramic mug, extended hours, discounts on packaged beer, spirits, and wine, Mug Club Party invitation, special club renewal price and more. The Mug Club will kick off on May 28.

Brian Campbell is co-founder and Brand Manager of the Buffalo Beer League, and writes the weekly Buffalo Beer Buzz column. If you have beer news that should be included in the Beer Buzz, Brian can be reached at brian@buffalobeerleague.com, on X (@buffbeerleague), Instagram, Threads and Untappd (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

The post Buffalo Beer Buzz: EBC Bemus Point to Open, CollaBEERation VI, Cabin Fever Fest, Zwanze Day, New Five & 20 Beers, Thin Man Blue Raspberry Minkey Boodle appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Steelbound to Open Niagara Falls Location on May 12

Steelbound Brewery & Distillery are expanding their Western New York footprint with a new location in Niagara Falls at the Sheraton Niagara Falls on Old Falls Street, which is set to open May 12. The brewery and distillery will take over the former TGIFridays space with indoor seating for more than 120 and patio seating for 80 outside on Old Falls Street. Steelbound plans to hire 80-100 employees for the new space. While they will feature wings, burgers and other handhelds, on-site brewing isn’t expected to begin in time for its first season. Steelbound has locations in Ellicottville, Dunkirk, Springville, Williamsville and Las Vegas.

Buffalo Beer League CollaBEERation Ticket Giveaway

The Buffalo Beer League has teamed up with the Buffalo Beer Geeks to give away a pair of general admission tickets (a $140 value) to the sixth annual CollaBEERation Festival, which takes place April 25 at the Powerhouse. To enter, simply watch or listen to the latest WNY Brews podcast, a CollaBEERation preview episode hosted by Buffalo Beer Geek Scott Panfil, and answer this question – what two breweries did Paul and Scott collaBEERate with for 2026? Post your answer in the comments to the contest post on BBL’s social pages and a random winner will be chosen on Monday, April 20. The deadline to enter is noon. If you don’t win, general admission tickets ($70, including unlimited pours and a commemorative glass) can be purchased here.

Farmcraft Brewery Releases First Beer

Strykersville’s Farmcraft Brewery has finally released their first beer – Ripe IPA. This 6% hazy IPA features notes of fresh-squeezed citrus, ripe peach, melon, and tropical fruit. It’s brewed with oats and wheat for a soft mouthfeel, then double dry-hopped with Citra Cryo, Mosaic, Riwaka, and Simcoe hops. Ripe IPA is available in 16oz. 4-packs cans to go and on draft at the taproom.

Flying Bison Homecoming at Mr. Goodbar

After a successful relaunch at Hamburg Brewing, Flying Bison is bringing their Homecoming Tour to Mr. Goodbar on April 23 (4pm). Flying Bison’s Buffalo Lager and Rusty Chain Vienna Lager will be available on draft, there will be an exclusive cask feature, a limited, brewery-exclusive pour, at 4 pm, free pint glasses to everyone who orders a Flying Bison draft beer (while supplies last) and a prize raffle for a Flying Bison Prize Pack, which includes a Flying Bison cooler, 5 Buffalo Bisons flex tickets, gift card, t-shirts, pint glasses, koozies, and stickers. The event is free to attend and open to the public.

Brickyard Brewing Brews IPA, Lager for Wingnutz

The next time you stop into Wingnutz Bar & Grill (1402 Millersport Hwy., Williamsville) for a few orders of chicken wings, make sure you grab pints of Wingnutz IPA and Lager, both brewed by Brickyard Brewing, to go with them. Wingnutz IPA is a hazy IPA that features big notes of juicy tropical fruit and sweet citrus and Wingnutz Lager is crisp and bready with herbal, citrusy hop notes. Both beers are brewed to pair with wings. Wingnutz IPA and Lager are available on draft and in cans to go.

Perry’s, Southern Tier Sip & Scoop Cheat Day Giveaway

Perry’s Ice Cream and Southern Tier Brewing are joining forces on the Sip & Scoop Cheat Day Giveaway, which features prizes such as six pints of Perry’s Cheat Day Ice Cream, Perry’s ice cream scoop, two Perry’s pilsner glasses, $50 Southern Tier gift card and Southern Tier merchandise ($100 value). Entering is free and all you have to do is follow Perry’s and Southern Tier on Instagram, like the contest post and tag a friend. The contest ruins through April 21 and the winners will be notified on or after April 22 via the official Perry’s Instagram account. Cheat Day is the latest collaboration between Perry’s and Southern Tier – an 8.6% dessert beer that features notes of vanilla, brownie batter, cookie dough and brown sugar.

New Thin Man Lager Benefits New York Waterways

Thin Man Brewery has teamed up with Trout Unlimited-Northeast on River Bank Lager, a collaborative new beer brewed with New Zealand-grown Waimea and Motueka hops, to “raise awareness and encourage action in making our water cleaner, our communities healthier and our fisheries stronger.” The beer will be released April 18 (3 pm) at Chandler Street Breweries with raffles for fishing gear, guided trips, books and more, and proceeds supporting the conservation efforts of WNY Trout Unlimited. River Bank Lager is “incredibly light and drinkable,” according to the brewery.

Brian Campbell is co-founder and Brand Manager of the Buffalo Beer League, and writes the weekly Buffalo Beer Buzz column. If you have beer news that should be included in the Beer Buzz, Brian can be reached at brian@buffalobeerleague.com, on X (@buffbeerleague), Instagram, Threads and Untappd (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

The post Buffalo Beer Buzz: Steelbound Niagara Falls, CollaBEERation Giveaway, Brickyard x Wingnutz Beers, Farmcraft Beer, Flying Bison Homecoming, Thin Man Collab Lager, Cheat Day Contest appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Sour Power Returns to Pizza Plant Transit

Pizza Plant’s celebration of all things sour beer, Sour Power, returns to their Transit Road location on April 12 (12pm). The event will feature more than 20 sour beers on draft and in bottles and cans, including Oude Quetsche Tilquin (2019), Prairie Tropical Esses, The Referend Bier Blendery The Name of the Rose, Foam Brewers #1 Hit Jam, Lodgson Farmhouse Ales Peach ‘n Brett, Cantillon Kriek (2024), Mortalis Hydra Sangria, and more. There will be flight specials, 20% off all sour bottles and Tums antacids to all those who may need them. Sour Power is free and open to the public.

Tickets On Sale For New York State Craft Brewers Fest

The New York State Craft Brewers Festival: Buffalo returns to Canalside on June 13 and tickets are on sale. This year will feature craft beer from over 50 breweries, live music, artisan vendors, food truck rodeo, keg toss, games and more. GA tickets are $45 (souvenir tasting glass, all samplings), GA+ is $65 (1 hour early entry, access to exclusive VIP beers, souvenir tasting glass, all sampling, $5 NYSBA merch coupon) and VIP is $100, which includes an exclusive Beer & Wing Pairing at Southern Tier Buffalo before the fest and special perks including upgraded festival glassware and early entry (100 spots available). Get tickets online here or save $10 when you purchase tickets at Resurgence Brewing Company ($40 – cash only).

Dude Hates Cancer Homebrew Competition Set for August

The 12th annual The Dude’s Homebrew Competition, which raises money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, will take place Aug.9 at Resurgence Brewing, where homebrewers will serve samples of dozens of homebrews to attendees, who will then vote for their favorite beer, which will be judged by a panel of local brewers. The winning beer will be brewed at Resurgence Brewing.

5th Annual Fundraiser for Summit Center at Brazen Brewing

The 5th annual fundraiser for The Summit Center will take place on Saturday, April 11 (12 pm) at Brazen Brewing. The event will help to raise money for autism awareness. In honor of the event, WNY Beer Trail has partnered with Brazen on Breakaway Kölsch, which will be on tap and in 4-packs to go, with a portion of the sales going to The Summit Center. In addition to the beer release, there will be basket raffles, a silent auction and prizes, including autographed Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres jerseys, signed pucks and baskets from Tim Hortons, Sunmed CBD, Resurgence Brewing, Brazen, Wingnutz and more. The event is free to attend and open to the public.

Tap That Tap Room To Close At End of May

Tap That Tap Room is closing at the end of May, but, as they say, they are not going out quietly. They will be hosting a Tap Room Funeral, or as they call it, “one wild weekend to say goodbye,” May 29-31. There will be an “open casket viewing,” a Book of Regrets guest book to share your favorite memories of Tap That, beer specials, the coffin cooler and more. Black attire is encouraged, but not required. “It is with mild emotional confusion and very full kegs that we announce the untimely passing of our beloved taproom,” Tap That said. “Come raise a glass, say your goodbyes, and help give this place the sendoff it deserves.” Tap That Tap Room opened in April 2023 in Tonawanda at 363 Delaware Ave.

New York State Craft Beer Day at Eli Fish Brewing

In honor of New York Craft Beer Day on April 11, a day to celebrate and honor New York’s more than 500 independent craft breweries, which support 22,000 jobs and generate a $4.8 billion economic impact, Eli Fish Brewing wants you to drink everything on their draft board, literally. All day, they will be offering $6 flights (with an upcharge for barrel-aged beers) and the $40 24-beer massive flight (two people minimum, no substitutions). Beer-themed food specials will also be available throughout the day. The event is free and open to the public. Reservations are required for parties of more than six.

Brian Campbell is co-founder and Brand Manager of the Buffalo Beer League, and writes the weekly Buffalo Beer Buzz column. If you have beer news that should be included in the Beer Buzz, Brian can be reached at brian@buffalobeerleague.com, on X (@buffbeerleague), Instagram, Threads and Untappd (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

The post Buffalo Beer Buzz: Sour Power, NYS Craft Beer Day at Eli Fish, Tap That to Close, NYS Craft Brewers Fest Tickets, Dude Hates Cancer, Fundraiser for Summit Center appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

New York Craft Beer Day Returns on April 11

New York Craft Beer Day, a day to celebrate and honor New York’s more than 500 independent craft breweries who support 22,000 jobs and generate a $4.8 billion economic impact, returns on April 11. It is the perfect opportunity to head to your local brewery or visit a new spot on your bucket list and grab a pint and food and take home some beer. “From this year forward, April 11th will be New York Craft Beer Day, we are honored that the governor created the proclamation in support of the industry,” New York State Brewers Association Executive Director Paul Leone said. You can commemorate the special day with the 2026 Collector’s Glass, available at participating locations while supplies last. For every glass sold, $1 benefits the New York State Brewers Association.

CollaBEERation Announces New Round of Collab Beers

The latest batch of collaborations for the sixth annual CollaBEERation Festival, which takes place at the Powerhouse on Saturday, Apr. 25, has been announced. They include Mountain Roads Brewing Double Jump Juice (Double Dry Hopped IPA), Strangebird Ocarina of Time (Thyme Infused Barrel Aged Saison), Pearl Street Rumbana Rampage (Banana and Rum Pak Aged Dark Lager) and Mystic Hills Finish Him! (Cherry Lime Sour). General admission tickets ($70, including unlimited pours and a commemorative glass) can be purchased here.

Hofbrauhaus Royal Export Barrel Tapping With Buffalo Beer League

Hofbrauhaus is tapping their Royal Export Lager on Thursday, April 2 (6 pm) with the help of the Buffalo Beer League, who will serve as the honorary Burgermeisters. There will be a traditional parade, barrel tapping with members of the Buffalo Beer League and The Sabrehood, as well as live music from Die Haus Band. There will also be a $20.26 Game Day Buffet and Buffalo Sabres puck drop at 7 pm, followed by a viewing party at the brewery of the game against the Ottawa Senators. Royal Export is a golden lager with fruity hop notes and a light bitterness. Reservations are not required, but are recommended.

2026 Buffalo Flight Tour Now Available

The 2026 Flight Tour, which gives you a beer or cocktail flight at seven local breweries, distilleries and bars, is now available for purchase. Each purchase includes seven certificates, each valid for a flight of beer or cocktails (one certificate for each establishment) at Hamburg Brewing (Flying Bison Brewing), Brazen Brewing, Frequentem Brewing, Hamburg Tap Room, Buffalo Distilling, BriarBrothers Brewing and Resurgence Brewing. The cost is $45 (plus $3.50 processing, $48.50 total) and can be purchased here. The 2026 NY Buffalo Flight Tour is a $105 value and less than 200 are available.

Other Half Buffalo Drops New Sabres-Inspired Beer

In case you’ve been living under a rock, the Buffalo Sabres are good again and all in right once again in Western New York. Other Half Buffalo, one of the breweries in closest proximity to KeyBank Center, where the Sabres calls home, are celebrating the team’s resurgence with the release of Swords on Swords, a 6.5% hazy IPA brewed with Citra, Motueka, Krush Cryo, Enigma and Anchovy hops. “This hazy IPA is good, scary good, brewed with massive amount of hand-selected hops giving notes of bright sweet citrus juice, watermelon candy, lychee and tart red berries,” the beer description reads. Swords on Swords in available now on tap and in cans at the brewery.

Kleinhans Rhythm & Brews Fundraiser Returns May 8

Kleinhans Music Hall’s annual fundraiser Rhythm and Brews returns on Friday, May 8 (6 pm). Proceeds from the event will benefit Kleinhans programming, including the Global Grooves music series, as well as building upkeep. The event will feature tastings from local breweries and cideries, food from Schutte Hospitality Group eateries such as Oliver’s, Britesmith, Creekview Restaurant and Marcato by Oliver’s and live music from Dominic Missana & Friends. Tickets include music, all beer and cider tastings, food, commemorative glass and a donation to Kleinhans. General admission tickets ($65) are available online, at the Kleinhans box office, or by calling 715-885-5000.

Brian Campbell is co-founder and Brand Manager of the Buffalo Beer League, and writes the weekly Buffalo Beer Buzz column. If you have beer news that should be included in the Beer Buzz, Brian can be reached at brian@buffalobeerleague.com, on X (@buffbeerleague), Instagram, Threads and Untappd (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

The post Buffalo Beer Buzz: NYS Craft Beer Day, Other Half Sabres Beer, Rhythm & Brews, Hofbrauhaus Barrel Tapping, CollaBEERation, 2026 Buffalo Flight Tour appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Habitat for Humanity Buffalo’s Hammer & Ales at Barrel Factory

Habitat for Humanity Buffalo’s annual Hammer & Ales fundraiser returns to the Barrel Factory on March 26 (5:30pm) and will feature food & drink tastings of local craft beers, ciders, and non-alcoholic beverages, silent auctions, games, and more. Tickets for the event ($50) include admission and tastings and can be purchased here. If you spend $25 or more at either Buffalo ReStore location, you will receive a promo code at checkout for $10 off tickets. You can also bundle your ticket with a 2026 Craft Beer Tour Card, which is good for a free drink at 28 local breweries, distilleries and bars across Western New York, and get $10 off the Beer Tour Card.

New York Beer Project to Introduce Beer Project Lite

New York Beer Project is introducing Beer Project Lite, which the brewery calls “the freshest and most delicious lite beer to hit the taps (and coolers) since forever.” The new light lager will only be $4 a pint at New York Beer Project taprooms, and $12 per 4-pack cans to go.

CollaBEERation Announces First Round of Collab Beers

The first batch of collaborations for the sixth annual CollaBEERation Festival, which takes place at the Powerhouse on Saturday, Apr. 25, has been announced. They include 1927 Brew House Dunkle-Kong German Dunkleweizen, Brewery Ardennes Wumpa Fruit Sour (Tropical Fruit Sour), Bones & Barely Brewing Boom Shockalacka (Raspberry NBA Jam Sour), Bee Spit Meadery Galaxy Gumball (Lychee, Marshmallow & Bubblegum carbonated mead), Brazen Brewing Ms. Pacman Sour (Fruited & Pretzel Sour) and Buffalo Olde Qbert Quencher (Saison/Belgian Table Beer with Orange Peel). General admission tickets ($70, including unlimited pours and a commemorative glass) can be purchased here.

Hofbrauhaus Royal Export Barrel Tapping With Buffalo Beer League

Hofbrauhaus is tapping their Royal Export Lager on Thursday, April 2 (6 pm) with the help of the Buffalo Beer League, who will serve as the honorary Burgermeisters. There will be a traditional parade, barrel tapping with members of the Buffalo Beer League and The Sabrehood, as well as live music from Die Haus Band. There will also be a $20.26 Game Day Buffet and Buffalo Sabres puck drop at 7 pm, followed by a viewing party at the brewery of the game against the Ottawa Senators. Royal Export is a golden lager with fruity hop notes and a light bitterness. Reservations are not required, but are recommended.

7 WNY Breweries Win 10 Medals At 2026 NYS Craft Beer Competition

It was a banner year for Western New York breweries at the 2026 New York State Craft Beer Competition. New York Beer Project and Eli Fish Brewing led the way with three and two medals each, respectively. NYBP won gold for Hazy Train (Hazy IPA) and silver for Righteous Day Drinker (Hazy DIPA) and Hazy Crush (Experimental IPA). Eli Fish grabbed gold for The Red Ale (Strong Ales & Lagers) and a silver for Tiga Spon (Experimental). Rusty Nickel Brewing won gold for Pumpernickel Porter (Porters – Non-Imperial), Resurgence Brewing won silver for Bridge Pilsner (American Lager), Pearl Street Grill & Brewery won silver for Mangia, Mangia! Italian Pilsner (Light Lager – Modern and Contemporary), Brickyard Brewing won silver for Magnetic North (Belgian Farmhouse) and Griffon Brewing grabbed bronze for Oregon High Five (Pale Ale).

Resurgence Brewing Expands Citmo Family of Beers

Resurgence Brewing’s flagship hazy IPA, Citmo, is welcoming some new family members – Super Citmo, Lil Mo and Citmo Charged. Super Citmo is an 8.5% New England-style Double IPA that features notes of citrus, tropical fruit and stone fruit, Lil Mo is a 4.3% Mosaic hopped session IPA that features an earthly crispness, tropical fruit flavors and subtle bitterness and Citmo Charged is a 9% hazy imperial IPA that features bright flavors and aromas of fresh citrus, fruit salad and sweet malt. Super Citmo (16oz. cans, 4-packs), Lil Mo (12oz. cans, 6-packs) and Citmo Charged (19.2oz. cans) can be found at Resurgence’s taproom and wherever great craft beer is sold.

Brian Campbell is co-founder and Brand Manager of the Buffalo Beer League, and writes the weekly Buffalo Beer Buzz column. If you have beer news that should be included in the Beer Buzz, Brian can be reached at brian@buffalobeerleague.com, on X (@buffbeerleague), Instagram, Threads and Untappd (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

The post Buffalo Beer Buzz: Hammer & Ales, NYBP Lite, Hofbrauahus Royal Export, CollaBEERation, 2026 NYS Craft Beer Competition, Resurgence Citmo Family of Beers appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.