Local Hollow Brewing’s Boo & Brews at the Hollow

Local Hollow Brewing and WNY Beer Trail are hosting the inaugural Boos & Brews at the Hollow on Saturday, Oct. 17 (12-4 pm) at the Clarence Hollow brewery, a fall-themed market with seasonal beers from Local Hollow, including Boos & Brews beer flights, fall cocktails and local vendors such as WNY Beer Trail, Norah’s Resin, Fox Tail Bakery, Tiffiney’s Trinkets, Drew’s Woodworking, IA of WNY, Oh How Cool! Resin Arts, Crazy Wine Bottle Lady, Maria’s Bene Cibo – Food Truck and more. The event is free to attend and open to the public.

Tap & Craft Festival Returns to Buffalo Riverworks Oct. 23

The Tap & Craft Festival returns to Buffalo Riverworks on Friday, Oct. 23, featuring more than 30 craft breweries, cideries, wineries and distilleries. There will also be craft vendors and live music from The Brass Machine. Tickets are on sale now – Tap Tier ($75, early entry, admission to both sessions, three 16oz. cans to go, pretzel necklace, festival sticker), VIP ($60, early entry, exclusive VIP-only pours), General Admission ($50) and Designated Driver ($12, includes bottled water). You can purchase tickets at Tapandcraft.com (no Eventbrite fees). There will be a limited number of tickets available at the door as well on the day of.

CollaBEERation 7 Festival Sets for April 2027

The date has been set for the seventh annual CollaBEERation Festival – April 3, 2027. The event will return to the Powerhouse (140 Lee St, Buffalo). Participating breweries, meaderies and cideries, as well as ticket information, will be announced at a later date. If you don’t know how CollaBEERation works, here’s the premise – the event features craft beer, cider and mead created by members of the Buffalo Beer Geeks community, who team up with over 50 Western New York craft venues to create one-off, small batch creations, many created exclusively for this event. They are involved in every step of the creative process. There will also be food and craft vendors on hand. For more information, click here.

42 North Brewing Celebrates 11th Anniversary

42 North Brewing is planning a full weekend of music and special beer releases from Friday, Oct. 16 to Sunday, Oct. 18 to celebrate its 11th anniversary. The celebration features live music all weekend long from AJ & The Woods, Marty Peters (with Sue Kincaid, Tracey Richter, Kirsten Brady and Jon Hoy and The Brother’s Blue, Buffalo Bills game with gameday food and beer specials, and a trio of new beers – Strawberry Rhubarb Kolsch, Raspberry/Cherry American Sour and Hazy Double IPA featuring a 2026 fresh hop harvest. All events during 42 North’s Anniversary weekend are free and open to the public.

New Pumpkin Beer From Butera’s Village Brew House and First Line

Butera’s Village Brew House and First Line Brewing have teamed up with Urbanowicz Acres Farm and Battle Rattle for this year’s release of Raf’s Great Pumpkin Ale. The beer is brewed with locally grown Western New York pie pumpkins from Urbanowicz Acres soaked in Battle Rattle whiskey, then roasted in Butera’s brick oven. The beer, brewed at First Line, features oats, Munich and Vienna malts, German noble hops and pumpkin seeds. Raf’s Great Pumpkin Ale will be available on draft at both Butera’s and First Line soon.

Buffalo Brewing’s Raffle To Purchase Special Simon Pure 12-Pack

Buffalo Brewing Company is raffling off the chance to purchase a special 12-pack of 16oz. bottles of Simon Pure lager. To enter, visit Buffalo Brewing’s Instagram page, follow Buffalo Brewing Company and Simon Pure Beer, then comment and tag 3 people you’d share your 12-pack with. Entries close Sunday, October 18 at 8 pm and the winner will be announced Monday, October 19. This is a chance to purchase one 12-pack of 16oz. Simon Pure bottles at the regular retail price (beer is not being given away).

BriarBrothers Brewing Drops New Sabres-Themed Beer

BriarBrothers Brewing’s newest haze pays homage to a homegrown Buffalo Sabres talent – Zach Benson. Benson Burner is a juicy and hazy 7% New England IPA brewed with Citra and El Dorado hops. The can art takes inspiration from West Coast Amusements, the traveling carnival owned by the Benson Family. “We’re dropping a brand new beer just in time for hockey season, and this one is built for Buffalo,” the brewery said. “Juicy, hazy, and ready to bring some heat to your next game day.” Benson Burner is available on draft and in cans at BriarBrothers Brewing.

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).

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New York Beer Project Wins 3 Medals at World Beer Cup

New York Beer Project has won another three medals at the 2026 World Beer Cup. The brewery took home a pair of silver medals for their Peche Spon 2024, a Lambic-style wild ale fermented in NYBP Beer Lodge’s Koelschip that was aged in Red Zinfandel barrels for 12 months and conditioned on locally grown peaches for 6 months, and West Coast Pils, as well as a bronze medal for Hazy Crush IPA. These are three more reminders that you don’t have to go very far for great beer in Western New York.

Craft Beer Fundraiser Returns to National Wing Festival

The National Buffalo Wing Festival, August 29-30 at Sahlen Field, will once again play host to Craft Beer Fundraiser with tastings from Big Ditch, Resurgence, Community Beer Works, Thin Man, Hamburg Brewing, Flying Bison, Ellicottville Brewing, Southern Tier, 42 North Brewing and more. Tickets are $68 and include festival admission, tastings (Saturday 2-6 pm or Saturday, 1-5 pm). Tickets also include $15 in wing/food tickets, a souvenir cup and donations to Mafia Babes Charities and Hope Rises, which supports pediatric cancer initiatives. The tastings are held at the Pub at the Park located at Sahlen Field. You can purchase tickets at https://buffalowing.com.

German-Polish Celebration at Spring Garden Park

The German-Polish Celebration at Spring Garden Park in East Aurora, Saturday, August 15, will feature a specially brewed Polish pilsner from Buffalo Brewing Company, dance performances from the Polish Heritages Dancers of Western New York and SGTV Edelweiss Dancers and live music from Captain Tom and the Hooligans (4 pm). Gates open at 3 pm and food will be available beginning at 3:30 pm. Admission is $6 – you can save $1 by clicking here. For more information, visit SpringGarden.com.

Magic Bear Beer Cellar Introduces OktoBEARfest Offering

Magic Bear Beer Cellar has introduced a new curated Oktoberfest beer pack just in time for the upcoming fall beer season. The OktoBEARfest Offering is essentially a fall beer advent calendar, featuring a mixed 12-pack assortment of Oktoberfests, Marzens, and Festbiers to enjoy throughout the Oktoberfest season, which takes place from September 19 to October 4. Pre-sale for the OktoBEARfest Offering begins August 14 at https://www.magicbearbeer.com. Beer boxes cost $39 plus tax. There is a limited quantity available.

Pours & Plates Summer Beer Pairing Dinner at Brazen Brewing

Brazen Brewing is pairing seven courses with seven unique brews at their Pours & Plates Summer Beer Dinner on August 18 (6 pm). The menu consists of Ahi Tuna Nachos paired with Alt Bier, Drunken Chicken Wings, Goat Cheese Dip paired with Mesopotamian Ale, Leek Hash paired with Potato Rosti Ale, Scallop & Red Shrimp Ceviche paired with New Zealand Pils, Cuban Rillette paired with Lancaster Wild Ale, Steak Bao Bun paired with Rye IPA and Stracciatella paired with Sour Ale. Tickets are $100 and can be purchased here.

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).

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While we are conditioned to associate lagers with the summer season, the answer is both psychological and physiological. Lagers are light-bodied, highly carbonated, and clean, which makes them especially refreshing when you’re hot and sweaty. When your body’s craving hydration and relief, a crisp lager satisfies both your thirst and your taste.

Research says that the cool temperature of ice-cold lagers triggers thermoreceptors in your mouth and throat, thus giving you a cooling sensation. As your sense of taste and smell dull slightly due to dehydration and heat fatigue on hot days, lagers are easier to process. They are also typically highly carbonated, which contributes to a perception of refreshment due to the carbonic acid stimulating your trigeminal nerve. Lagers rely less on aroma complexity and more on texture, carbonation, crispness, and finish, attributes that remain highly perceptible even when olfactory sensitivity declines during the summer. Because trigeminal sensation remains robust during heat stress, carbonation continues to provide a vivid sensory experience even when aroma perception is reduced.

After reading way too much medical research online to support my theory, something I never thought I’d be doing when I started writing about craft beer, I wanted to gather some real-world thoughts on why lagers taste better during summer, so I turned to the experts. And by experts, I mean the people behind my current favorite local lagers – Smoldered Society (Strike Anywhere), Resurgence Brewing (Bridge Pilsner), Buffalo Olde Brewery (Lovejoy Lager), Buffalo Brewing (Simon Pure), First Line Brewing (Everyday Lager) and 42 North Brewing (Solshine).

Illumination Pilsner was one of the very first beers I drank when 42 North Brewing opened, and while no offense is meant towards it or their Craftsman Lager, my current favorite crispy from the East Aurora brewery is Solshine, a helles lager brewed with sweet orange peel and tangerine, one of my absolute favorite beers to consume while floating around in the pool.

“I tend to think lagers taste great all year round,” 42 North owner John Cimperman said. “That said, I do tend to drink more of them in the summer. And the beauty of a lager coming in around 5% is, you can toss back a few. Crisp, refreshing and a perfect way to beat the heat. Before, of course, you throw back a few IPA’s.”

I’ve long posited that Buffalo Olde’s Lovejoy Lager is one of the most slept-on lagers in all of Western New York. It’s also one of my favorite beers to drink at a beer festival because, not only is it thoroughly refreshing, it’s a well-built beer. When I asked Buffalo Olde head brewer Tom Dargen for his thoughts on my lager theory, he offered something of an interesting take.

“I did recently hear an NPR story about how to manage extreme heat where the expert interviewed said drinking light beer was as hydrating as water, and by that he meant lighter lager, which I assume you are referring to as well,” Dargen said. “I love that clean, crisp, beer-flavored beer is having a bit of a renaissance. Who wants to drink another enormous IPA that tastes like bong water on a hot summer day?”

Resurgence Brewing’s owner Jeff Ware has a bit more of a straightforward take.

“Nothing better than a cold refreshing beer on a hot day. Match made in heaven. Like a beer and hot dog at a baseball game!” Ware said.

Russ Haentges, head brewer at Orchard Park’s First Line Brewing, said that it is lager’s simple nature that makes them a go-to choice for summer when you’re reaching into your cooler.

“I suppose I should start by asking you: in which season does a lager not taste delicious?” he said. “Because lagers are straightforward nearly 99% of the time, they are especially attractive during the summer. The light, refreshing, crisp, and simple nature of the style makes it a natural go-to in the heat. I also feel we are finally turning a corner, with lagers becoming the preferred choice as the hazy IPA craze begins to settle.”

Buffalo Brewing Company is making some of the best lagers in Western New York right now, and it is largely due to their successful revival of the Simon Pure line and Schreiber Brewing’s Manru line. As owner and head brewer John Domres told me recently, BBC makes “old man beers,” and they are doing it pretty damn well in my opinion. While he says part of the reason why lagers are so closely associated with summer is psychological, there is science behind it, which I found out during my research for this article. The science does actually exist.

“Lagers simply taste different during the summer,” he said. “They are cold, crisp, clean, refreshing, and usually not too heavy. When the weather is hot, you don’t want something overly sweet, boozy, or filling. Instead, you prefer something cold with good carbonation and a clean finish. Part of the reason for this preference is likely psychological. Cookouts, patios, baseball games, yard work, and ice-cold cans all evoke a sense of lager season. In essence, lager embodies the essence of summer in a glass.”

According to Smoldered Society’s Cameron Frank, lagers are built for summer because they can be full-flavored, but not overly heavy. Plus, they are pretty much untouchable when it comes to day drinking.

“Summer offers a special opportunity for these beers to fucking rip. Built for longer sessions, the (traditionally) lower-ABV, crisp, refreshing characteristics of lager complement the warmer months all too well,” Frank says. “Lagers offer the craft beer drinker an opportunity to enjoy something full-flavored, without the filling nature of hop-saturated and/or high-gravity beer. In addition, you can drink 4 or 5 pints without getting annihilated.”

In conclusion, hot weather changes human sensory perception. Lagers are uniquely engineered, through high attenuation, elevated carbonation, clean fermentation, moderate alcohol, and cold service, to match the physiological state of someone experiencing heat stress. While lagers are psychologically associated with summer, they are biologically optimized to feel more refreshing.

So, why do lagers taste better during the summer? It’s just science.

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).

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Thin Man Drops New Summer Crusher – Mafia Light Lime

Thin Man Brewery has dropped a new version of their Mafia Light – Mafia Light Lime, an ultra-light and crushable lager that clocks in at 3.5% and only 80 calories with a subtle and refreshing lime note. “Mafia Light Lime (aka summer water?) is here and ready to be crushed by your preferred body of water,” Thin Man says of the new beer. Mafia Light Lime is available now wherever great craft beer is sold, including Chandler Street Breweries, Wegmans and Consumer’s Beverages.

Ellicottville Brewing The Charge Returns With Fresh Look

Just in time for Buffalo Bills training camp, Ellicottville Brewing’s The Charge American Lager has returned with a fresh, updated look. According to the brewery, the new Tailgate Edition design is inspired by the “hardworking communities across the Rust Belt. It belongs at neighborhood bars, game-day gatherings, backyard grills and kitchen tables.” “At 4.8%, The Charge is made for cooler doors and tap handle pours — crushable by the can, crisp by the pint and priced just right to keep in your regular rotation. It’s the kind of beer that shows up, fits in, and keeps good company.” The Charge is available at all EBC taprooms and wherever great craft beer is sold.

Resurgence Brewing Kickoff to Football Beer Release

Resurgence Brewing is celebrating the return of their Buffalo Bills-themed beers – Circle the Wagons IPA and Pilsner and BUF IPA – at a special Kickoff to Football release party on July 30 (5-8 pm). BUF IPA is a hazy IPA brewed with Citra and Cashmere hops and features notes of berries and tropical fruit, Circle the Wagons IPA is dry-hopped with Citra, Galaxy and German Amarillo hops and CTW Pils is a light and crisp American Pilsner. If you wear your favorite Bills gear, you can get $1 off all draft beer, Blackbird Cider, and Brightside Vibes Vodka Seltzers all night long. There will also be beer samples throughout the evening. This event is free and open to the public.

Armstrong’s Beer Co. Eyes Taproom in West Seneca

Armstrong’s Beer Co., a new venture from Alexander Armstrong, whose family owns and operates Armstrong’s Barber Shop and Armstrong’s Armory, has filed plans with the Town of West Seneca to open a new taproom at the former Country Peddler’s building (1340 Orchard Park Road), Buffalo Business First reports. Tentative plans call for a taproom space that serves a rotating beer and wine selection plus a limited food menu of burgers, fries and light snacks. According to Armstrong, Armstrong’s Beer plans to operate a “family-friendly” site open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. with outdoor seating, weather-permitting.

Southern Tier Introduces Pumqueen Imperial Pumpkin Cider

Southern Tier Brewing has teamed up with Bold Rock Cider on Pumqueen, an 8.6% Imperial Pumpkin Cider. Pumqueen “begins with Bold Rock’s signature crisp apple character before unfolding into the familiar magic of pumpkin pie spice.” Southern Tier says it’s rich, aromatic, and smooth. “It’s autumn royalty in every sip. At 8.6% ABV, Pumqueen rules with the strength of an Imperial and the confidence of a Queen. Raise your glass… and bend the knee.”  Pumqueen is available now at all Southern Tier taproom, as well as wherever great craft cider is sold.

Massive Collab, Open Bags, Returns For Eighth Time

Open Bags, a massive collaboration between dozens of breweries across the state, is back for an eighth installment. Brewed at Brockport’s Stoneyard Brewing, Open Bags 8, a collab between Eli Fish, Nine Maidens, Solitude Brewing, Brazen Brewing, Keuka Brewing, Heritage Hill Brewery, Watershed Brewing Company, Spotted Octopus Brewing, Swiftwater Brewing, Irondequoit Beer Company, Runaway Blue Brewing, Noble Shepherd Craft Brewery, Mountain King Brewing, Lake Drum Brewing, Buffalo Brewing, Stumblin’ Monkey Brewing, Talking Cursive Brewing, and Drumlins Brewing. This year’s collaboration features 12 different fruits – watermelon, banana, pink guava, lemon, prickly pear, pineapple, dragon fruit, grapefruit, boysenberry, coconut, Niagara grapes, and apples, as well as marshmallow and vanilla. A limited quantity of Open Bags 8 will be available on draft and in cans at each participating brewery while supplies last.

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).

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13th Annual Bricks & Brews at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House

Enjoy craft brews, food trucks, and live music on the grounds of the Martin House estate at the 13th annual Bricks & Brews, which returns July 24 (6-9 pm). The event will feature samplings from more than 25 Western New York breweries and cideries, live music from Public Water Supply, and food trucks. Proceeds from the event will go to support tours and programs at the Martin House. You can purchase tickets ($75 for non-members / $60 for members) at http://martinhouse.org. This is a rain-or-shine event.

Buffalo Brewing Company 10^th Anniversary Party

Buffalo Brewing is celebrating their 10^th anniversary on July 25, 12-8 pm, with beer and live music (3-6 pm) at their Myrtle Avenue taproom. As they celebrate a decade, Buffalo Brewing has filled a limited number of Simon Beer 16oz. bottle 12-pack boxes, but you can only win a chance to purchase one. Purchase any Simon product to receive an entry into the lottery at the anniversary party and lucky winners will earn the opportunity to purchase a 12-pack. Tickets will be available only on July 25 and the drawing will take place that day. Winners will pick up their 12-packs at the historic Simon Brewery Bottling Hall. The event is free and open to the public.

Beer Justice Brewing 4^th Anniversary Party

Celebrate four years of Beer Justice in Arcade on Aug. 1 with beer and live music all day with Muddy Rivers Blues Band (3-6 pm) outside in the beer garden and Taven (7-9 pm) inside the taproom. “Four years of great beer, great music, and an amazing community—we couldn’t have done it without you. Come raise a pint with us and celebrate another year of Beer Justice!” Beer Justice said. The event is free and open to the public.

Halfway to Cask Fest at Mr. Goodbar

Mr. Goodbar is marking the halfway mark to their annual Cask Fest with Halfway to Cask Fest on Friday, July 24. They will be tapping four local casks – Flying Bison Brewing Rusty Chain with Coconut, Brickyard Brewing Just One Before I Die IPA, Britesmith Brewing Kolsch and Gene McCarthy’s/Old First Ward Brewing German Pilsner with Tettnang hops. Halfway to Cask Fest is free to attend and you pay as you go.

Dude Hates Cancer Homebrew Competition Returns to Resurgence

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. Entry is a  $30 donation, which includes a free tasting glass.

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).

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Thin Man’s Minkey Day Is Back This Year

Minkey Day, a celebration of Thin Man Brewery’s flagship raspberry sour, Minkey Boodle, is back this year at Chandler Street Breweries on July 18 (12 pm). There will be four special Minkey collaborations with Frequentem Brewing (Tiki Boodle – Painkiller-inspired sour with raspberry), Prairie Artisan Ales (Minkey Stardust – Raspberry sour with pink Starburst candies), Bellwoods (Jelly Boodle – Raspberry  and Sicilian Lemon Sour) and Atrium Brewing (Banana Boodle Boy – Frozen chocolate raspberry and banana sour), as well as special Minkey Day merchandise, giveaways, food specials and more. This year, the event is free and open to the public.

Hofbrauhaus Buffalo To Tap Barrel Of Pils

On July 2, Hofbrauhaus Buffalo will hold a keg tapping of their HB Pils with a ceremonial parade throughout the beer hall, followed by a tapping of the barrel at 6 pm. According to the brewery, “this Bohemian-style pilsner is golden in color with a kicked-up presence of both malt and hops. The malt profile is slightly sweet and toasted, with a biscuit-like, bread character, balanced with crisp and clean noble hops. Refreshing and satisfying…perfect for summer.” Die Haus Band will perform following the parade. You can make reservations at www.hofbrauhausbuffalo.com.

Celebrate the Fourth of July With Fresh, Local Beer

The Fourth of July falls on a Saturday this year, which means there’s no better time to properly raise a toast to our country with fresh, local beer. And there are several patriotic brews to choose from. Resurgence Brewing’s Citmo IPA got a red, white, and blue makeover to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary (cans available at the brewery), Brickyard Brewing has brought back their fan-favorite blueberry ale, Red, White & Blueberry (limited quantity of cans available at the brewery, select Wegmans locations and DiMino’s Lewiston Tops), and First Line Brewing not only has their Star & Stripes IPA, they have also brought back Freedom Hard Seltzer: Bomb Pop and debuted America 250 Lager (cans and draft available at the brewery). Happy Independence Day to one and all!

Buffalo Brewing Simon Pure Case Sale This Week

If you’re looking to stock up for the holiday weekend, look no further than Buffalo Brewing Company. The brewery has launched a special case sale for all of their Simon Pure products – Simon Pure, Simon Light, Simon Bock and Old Abbey Ale. This week only, all Simon cans are just $25 per case (plus tax and deposit). “Raise a can to America’s 250th birthday! Stock up for the holiday, fire up the grill, and keep your cookout going strong with the perfect beers for summer,” the brewery says. The case sale is only available at the taproom.

Other Half Buffalo Rolls Out 2026 Green City Collabs

While Other Half’s Green City Festival has come and gone this year, you can still get your hands on three special collaboration beers at their Buffalo taproom. Starting July 2, a trio of collabs – Buckle Down Imperial IPA (Parish Brewing & Pinthouse Brewing), brewed with Riwaka, Peacharine and Dolcita hops, Dankest Days Imperial IPA (Finback, Fidens & Hop Butcher), brewed with Columbus Cryo, Nectaron Cryo, Nectaron, Strata and Nelson Sauvin hops, and Pacific Power Imperial IPA (Great Notion, Monkish & Uchu Brewing), brewed with Nelson Sauvin, Peacharine, Citra, Citra Cryo, Amarillo and NZH109 hops – will be available on draft and in cans at the taproom.

BriarBrothers Brewing Fourth of July Case Sale

BriarBrothers Brewing is holding a case sale to make sure all of our fridges are stocked for the long holiday weekend with a special can sale – 24 mix-and-match BB cans for $100. “Whether you’re firing up the grill, spending the day on the water, heading to a family gathering, or relaxing with friends, make sure your cooler is stocked with BriarBrothers,” the brewery said. “Build your own case with all your favorites and keep the beer flowing all weekend long. It’s the perfect chance to stock up before the celebrations begin.” This special is available Wednesday through Sunday.

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).

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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).

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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).

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Pizza Plant Transit to Host Imperial March of Stouts

On Sunday, March 8 (12 pm), Pizza Plant Transit will host a bevy of heavy-hitting stouts for their annual Imperial March of Stouts. The event will feature Founders KBS 2019 and 2019 CBS, Goose Island Bourbon County (various vintages), Angry Chair Adjunct Trail, Grimm Onement (Basil Hayden), Old First Ward Brewing Ten Years After Imperial Stout and Other Half 9^th Anniversary Barrel Aged Imperial Stout (collaboration with Homes Brewing), and more. The North Ridge Fanforce will be on hand in full Star Wars costumes, flights will be available and anyone who wears Star Wars gear receives $5 off a flight. The event is free to attend and open to the public.

Hofbrauhaus to Host Marzen Barrel Tapping

Hofbrauhaus will release their seasonal offering, Marzen, on March 5 (6 pm), with a special keg tapping. WNY Heroes will serve as the honorary barrel tappers and from March 5–8, the brewery is hosting a Round Up Campaign – when you close your tab, round up your bill to support WNY Heroes. All guests 21+ will receive a complimentary pour. This springtime Märzen, 5.9%, brewed with Herkules and Select hops, pours burnt orange with aromas of toasted bread, floral spiciness and finishes clean and crisp. For reservations, visit www.hofbrauhausbuffalo.com or call (716) 939-BEER (2337).

First Annual Mead Share at Bee Spit Meadery

On Friday, March 13, Bee Spit Meadery in South Wales will host the First Annual Mead Share, an event supported by Bee Spit customers who will supply meads from around the country. In addition to Bee Spit, several other local meaderies will be represented, including Mead People 716, Three Bear Meadery and Queen City Meadery. Tickets are $45 and include a commemorative tasting tray to hold 10 1oz. tasters, custom 5oz. glass, taco bar, bottomless chili, access to nearly 100 different mead bottles and more. You can purchase tickets here. Event space is limited.

Big Ditch Brewing Lockport First Anniversary Party

Big Ditch’s Lockport taproom is already turning one (they grow up so fast, don’t they?) and the brewery is celebrating on Thursday, March 12 (5-8 pm). The event will feature a limited run of cans of Hoodledasher, a hazy IPA brewed with Mosaic and Calypso hops (available in Lockport on March 12 and Buffalo on March 13), free limited edition t-shirts (first 75 guests), raffles (receive one entry with every beer (or any other menu item), free anniversary cake and live music from Welcome Distraction. The event is free and open to the public.

Buffalo Brewing March Madness Beer Deals

In honor of March Madness, all this month Buffalo Brewing Company is hosting happy hours full of beer deals at their Myrtle Avenue taproom. Throughout March, on every Wednesday and Thursday, 4-6 pm, and Sunday, 12-6 pm, you can visit the taproom and receive $4 pints and $15 pitchers of several fan favorite beers, including 1890 Loganberry Ale, 1789 ESB and Sunday Sauce Dry Hopped Cream Ale.

Vote for the Next Thin Man Minkey Boodle Variant

In the spirit of March Madness, Thin Man is hosting a tournament to choose the next variant of their popular Minkey Boodle fruited sour. Sixteen possible flavor combinations will do battle in a bracket-style tournament – new polls will be published each week and the winning flavor will be brewed after the tournament ends. Contenders include Blue Raspberry, 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. You can vote for your favorites via the link in the bio on Thin Man’s social media channels.

Sip & Solve: A Beer Investigation at Tap That Tap Room

Sip, solve and crack the case at Tap That Tap Room on March 6 (7 pm) at Sip & Solve: A Beer Investigation. Step into investigator mode for a self-paced mystery night where every solved clue earns your next beer. Each guest receives a personal case packet and works through a series of mystery challenges — earning a beer after each solved clue. Decode hidden messages, analyze evidence, rebuild timelines, and crack the final mystery as you sip and solve at your own pace. A limited amount of tickets can be purchased here (4 beers and 4 bites and puzzle booklet are included with each ticket).

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: Imperial March of Stouts, First Annual Mead Share, Hofbrauhaus Marzen, Sip & Solve, Big Ditch Lockport Anniversary, Minkey Madness, March Madness at Buffalo Brewing appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Big Ditch Brewing Launches New Inflation Buster

Big Ditch Brewing is looking to make things a little easier on your wallet with $4 pints of their No Punts Intended Pilsner all day, every day, at both their Buffalo and Lockport taprooms. “We know things are tight right now, and we believe great beer shouldn’t be out of reach. So we’re doing what we can to keep your tab down when you visit – without cutting corners where it matters,” the brewery said on social media. “Same quality. Same freshness. Less strain on your wallet.” This easy-drinking American pilsner is brewed with Cascade hops.

Brewer’s Invitational Returns to NYBP Beer Lodge

The seventh annual Brewer’s Invitational will take place at the NYBP Beer Lodge in Orchard Park on Feb. 28, 2026 (2-5 pm). Tickets are $50 and include a commemorative tasting glass, a $5 food voucher, and access to over 50 brews from 30 local breweries, cideries and meaderies. Designated driver tickets are also available. An exclusive beer list, as well as a list of participating breweries, will be released closer to the event. You can purchase tickets here.

New York State Craft Brewers Fest To Canalside June 13

The New York State Craft Brewers Festival: Buffalo returns to Canalside on June 13, 2026. The New York State Brewers Association and Western New York Brewers Guild produce the annual event. This year, the event will feature fresh craft beer from over 50 breweries from every corner of the state. Attendees can meet the people who make the beer they love while enjoying live music, local food trucks, artisan vendors, and more. Information regarding tickets, participating breweries and more will be released in the coming weeks. You can find more information here.

Lilly Belle Meads Taproom To Close December 20

As part of their new partnership with Rusty Nickel Brewing, Lilly Belle will close their taproom on December 20 and will move all mead production to West Seneca at Rusty Nickel. Lilly Belle owner Joe Marshall says that while they might not produce as many different meads as they once did, moving forward, he hopes to make Lilly Belle meads available in more locations. While timing is fluid, both sides hope to begin in 2026. There is no official start date or timeline right now. Lilly Belle first opened in September 2017. The meadery will host a final goodbye celebration on Saturday, 12 – 11 pm, with Christmas Carol-Oke at 7 pm.

Buffalo Brewing Extends Beer Sale Through Year’s End

Buffalo Brewing Company wants to make your holidays a little more merry and bright with a case sale through the end of the year. For $30, you can get a mixed pack case – 4 12oz. 6-pack cans of Simon Pure, Manru Lager, Schreiber’s Porter, Extra Fine Ale, Old Abbey Ale, Manru Dark Lager, Bellweiser and Half & Half. “It would be my distinct pleasure and honor to have our beers at your holiday table this year,” BBC owner John Domres Jr. said. The brewery is also bringing back magnum bottles of Bellweiser and Simon Pure for the holidays, which will be available next week.

The Blue Monk Is Coming Back, For Night Only

The Terrace at Delaware Park is bringing back iconic Elmwood Avenue watering hole The Blue Monk, Buffalo’s long-beloved Belgian beer bar, for one night only, on January 19, 2026 (6 pm), with a special event, Blue Monk Revival. Tickets 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 from DJ Cutler 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.

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).

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