Fall Beer Fest at Rusty Nickel Brewing

Fall Beer Fest will take place this weekend at Rusty Nickel Brewing as part of Western New York Beer Week, presented at the WNY Brewers Guild, on Oct. 3 (3-5 pm). The event will feature samplings of local seasonal beers, including Oktoberfests, Pumpkin Ales, Stouts, Lagers and more, from 15 area breweries, including 42 North, Big Ditch, Brazen Brewing, Brickyard Brewing, Britesmith Brewing, First Line Brewing, Lilly Belle Meads, New York Beer Project, Resurgence Brewing, Rusty Nickel and Santora’s 1927 Brew House. The event, part of Rusty Nickel’s Harvest Fest, is $20 to attend. Tickets can be purchased here. You can find more information at WNYBeerWeek.com.

Consumer’s Beverages Hamburg Location Closed After Fire

Consumer’s Beverages Hamburg location, 5755 Maelou Drive, is indefinitely closed after a fire. No one was hurt, but the location will be closed until further notice. “Thank you to the first responders for bravely jumping into action and to our loyal customers as we navigate this situation,” Consumer’s said. “We hope to see you at our other locations, and Let’s Go Buffalo!” Consumer’s says that the closure is only temporary and they plan to reopen the location in the future. The next closest locations are 6161 West Quaker Street in Orchard Park and 1280 Abbott Road in Lackawanna.

First Line Seeks Veterans to Take Part in Special Brew Day

First Line Brewing is looking for veterans to take part in their annual Veterans Day brew day for their I Got Your 6 Pale Ale. To take part in making the beer this year, RSVP at firstlinebrewing@gmail.com. If you can’t make it for the brew day or your loved one is no longer here, First Line will be featuring the names of any and all vets on the beer as part of the can art. If you know someone and want their names printed on the cans, DM the brewery on social media or email them the veterans first and last name, branch and title served and a picture of them in uniform. I Got Your 6 Pale Ale is brewed with the Veterans hop blend from Yakima Chief hops and features notes of citrus, floral hops and berry.

Exclusive Wildflower Mead at 42 North at the Flats

There is a new Wildflower Beverages mead that only be found on tap at 42N at the Flats – Blackberry Sage Session. The mead features bright and herbaceous aromas of fresh crushed sage and tart wild blackberry, followed by notes of ripe berries and a dry, resinous finish. “We infused fresh blackberries and sage in one of our “Blank” session mead kegs,” Wildflower explained, “which allows us to experiment with fun flavors.” Blackberry Sage Session can be found on tap at 42N at the Flats in the Theatre District while supplies last.

Annual Cask Fest at Mr. Goodbar Returns Dec. 3

Mr. Goodbar’s annual Cask Fest returns on Thursday, Dec. 3 (7 pm). The ticketed event features cask beers, including special one-off variants and straight cask presentations of brewery favorites, most of which cannot be found anywhere else, from local breweries upstairs in the Attic at Mr. Goodbar. Tickets include unlimited cask samplings, commemorative glass, food and more. The brewery and cask beer list will be announced in the coming weeks. Tickets can be purchased in person at Mr. Goodbar.

Resurgence’s Kegs & Eggs Returns Oct. 24

Kegs & Eggs, one of Resurgence Brewing’s signature events, returns on Oct. 24 (10 am – 1 pm). The event features breakfast food (Brewer’s Breakfast Burrito and Proscuitto and Egg Muffins) and small batch beers (Blackberry Lime Mule Blonde Ale, Espresso Martini Stout, Paloma-Inspired Ale and Gummy Worm Pilsner) and ciders (Pickleback Cider, Long Island Iced Team Cider, Dragonfruit Cider and Cranberry Christmas Cider). The event is free to attend, but those who RSVP at the link on the brewery’s social channels ahead of time will be entered to win a Brewer’s Select Basket (2 crowlers selected by Resurgence’s head brewer and cider maker). The winner will be chosen at noon on Oct. 24 (winner must be present at time of drawing).

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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Waldfest: Festival in the Woods Returns to East Aurora

It’s that time of year again – time to gather together in the woods and toast giant mugs of traditional German beer. Yes, you guessed it – it’s once again time for Waldfest, the annual Festival in the Woods, which takes place on July 19, 12-7 pm, at Spring Garden Park (3838 Two Rod Road, East Aurora). The German American Musicians and the Polka Boyz will provide authentic German music and food will be available on-site as will plenty of authentic German beers. There is also free parking. Tickets are $15 in advance or $30 at the gate. For tickets and more information, visit SpringGarden.com. This is a rain-or-shine event. You can purchase tickets online this year here.

Sample Erie County Fair Home Brew, Cider at Hamburg Gaming

The Home Brew and Hard Cider Best of Show winners of the Erie County Fair Home Brew and Cider competitions will be on display at Hamburg Gaming for the 2026 Tap That Barrel event. The Best in Show Cider is Black Cherry Vanilla Cider from Chuck Privitera and the Best in Show Home Brew is Wish You Were Here, Red IPA from James Krell. Guests can enjoy samples, as well as light snacks, live music from Brother James, and meet the beer and cider makers. Both the winning beer and cider will be available on draft throughout the fair, as well as in cans at Hamburg Brewing and BlackBird Cider Works.

Elmwood’s The Beer Keep To Close July 28

After five years in business, Elmwood beer bar The Beer Keep has announced plans to close on July 28 with a final party planned for July 25. “What started as a little neighborhood craft beer bar became so much more for us: “The Keep” has been a place to celebrate, bring your dog for a patio visit, grab a glizzy and an ice-cold lager, laugh at one too many ridiculous videos, and catch up with old friends while making new ones. We’re so lucky to have been a beat in the rhythm of the Elmwood Village – it’s an experience that we’ll always carry with us,” The Beer Keep said. “Thank you to the Elmwood Village for five unforgettable years. It’s been an absolute honor to be your neighborhood beer bar.” More details on the “final rager” will be released soon.

Resurgence Brewing, Consumer’s Team on New Promotion

Consumer’s Beverages and Resurgence Brewing have teamed up on a new promotion and all you have to do is buy beer and receive free beer in return. If you visit any participating Consumer’s location and purchase a Resurgence Fridge Filler mixed 12-pack (Bridge Pilsner, Citmo IPA, Lil Mo Session IPA, Flats & Drums Pale Ale) or Summer Pack (Summer Ale, Summer Shandy, Loganberry Wit), you will receive a $15 gift card to the brewery. Each 12-packs cost $20.99. You can also purchase two 6-packs or two 4-packs of Resurgence beer to receive the free gift card as part of the promotion, which runs while supplies last.

Ellicottville Brewing Releases Fall-Themed Lager Pack

It may only be July, but Ellicottville Brewing is already thinking about fall with the release of their Lager Pack, a mixed 12-pack featuring three cans each of Pretzel Bender Dunkel, Monroe Street Pilsner, Fall Festival, and Ellicottville Bock. The Lager Pack is available now at the brewery, as well as wherever great craft beer is sold.

Ten Lives Club Announces Partnership with BriarBrothers Brewing

Ten Lives Club Cat Rescue is partnering with BriarBrothers Brewing to release the first-ever Ten Lives Club beer. On Friday, August 7, BriarBrothers will release “Mission Pawsible,” a beer inspired by Ten Lives Club’s campaign for its new state-of-the-art cat shelter. “Mission Pawsible” is a light beer brewed to purr-fection, and as guests enjoy the new pint, they’ll also be helping cats in need. Proceeds from beer sales will benefit Ten Lives Club. Guests can also enjoy live music, basket raffles, a 50/50 raffle, Ten Lives Club merchandise, and the opportunity to meet adoptable Ten Lives Club cats. The event is free and open to the public.

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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Buffalo Olde Brewery Announces Oktoberfest Weekend

Buffalo Olde Brewery will celebrate Oktoberfest in Lovejoy, Thursday, September 25 through Sunday, September 28. The weekend will feature traditional German food specials, including bratwurst and schnitzel, Oktoberfest apparel and beer giveaways, live music from Tsavo Highway (Thursday, September 25, 6 pm), Grosh (Friday, September 26, at 6 pm), Jon Fohl Band (Saturday, September 27, 6 pm) and more. The brewery will be showcasing their BOBFest all weekend long, a slightly sweet, malty and toasty Vienna lager brewed for the season. Oktoberfest weekend is free and open to the public.

Giveaways From Ellicottville Brewing, Resurgence, Consumer’s Beverages

If you’re looking for some great craft beer prizes, there is a pair of new giveaways to enter. Consumer’s Beverages and Resurgence Brewing are hosting a giveaway for brewery and sampling tour, two drinks and appetizers for 10 people. You can enter for free at Consumer’s Instagram page here. The contest runs through September 30. Additionally, Ellicottville Brewing is giving away four tickets to EBC Fall Fest (four wristbands and four souvenir beer steins). You can enter for free on their Instagram page. Winners will be announced on October 3.

Clarksburg Cider Drops Winter Cider, Spruced Up

While fall has officially just began in Western New York, Clarksburg Cider is getting a jump on winter with the release of their new seasonal cider, Spruced Up. Infused with spruce tips and a dusting of sugar, this cider features pine and citrus at first sip, rounded with apple and a semi-dry finish. Look for cans of Spruced Up wherever craft cider is sold around Western New York. It can also be ordered online for shipping at https://clarksburgcider.com.

Western New York Beer Week Starts September 25

The 2025 Western New York Beer Week, presented at the WNY Brewers Guild, will take place Sept. 25 – Oct. 5. The weeklong event celebrates our local craft beer scene and is headlined by the release of a new collaborative hazy IPA featuring all Guild member breweries. WNY Beer Week IPA, a hazy 7% New England IPA brewed with Mosaic, Nelson Cryo, Amarillo T45, Cascade and El Dorado hops, features notes of tropical fruit, citrus and stone fruit. The beer will be available on draft at all participating breweries throughout WNY Beer Week. You can find more information at wnybeerweek.com.

The Arc of Erie County Ale Trail Returns for 2025

The 5th annual Arc Erie County Ale Trail, a fundraising event benefitting The Arc Erie County New York, a local non-profit that serves children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, will take place on Sept. 25 (4:30 pm) at 30 Wilson Road in Williamsville. The Ale Trail will feature local beer, wine, cider and craft spirits on The Arc Erie County’s wooded walking trail in Williamsville from Community Beer Works, Smoldered Society, Belt Line, Big Ditch, Thin Man, Other Half, Eli Fish, Hamburg Brewing, Beer Kind Brewing, Bee Spit Meadery, Clarksburg Cider and more. There will also be food, live from XOXO Pop Band, a campfire, yard games, raffles and more. You can purchase tickets here for $40. Buffalo Beer Buzz readers can get 10% off tickets with our special code BBLEAGUE10 at checkout.

Buffalo Beer Goddesses 13^th Anniversary Party

The Buffalo Beer Goddesses are turning lucky number 13 and are celebrating on Wednesday, October 1 (6-9 pm) in the Attic at Mr. Goodbar. The event will feature chicken wings, snacks, drink samples from local vendors and a free beer for the first 50 guests. Tickets are $5 for members and $10 for nonmembers (cash only). As always, this event is open to members and nonmembers of all genders.

Harvest Fest at Rusty Nickel Brewing

The 11th Annual Harvest Fest at Rusty Nickel Brewing is set to take place on Saturday, September 27 (1-11 pm). The event will feature live music all day long from Wacko Fest (1-2:30 pm), Jeff & Joe from Funktional Flow (3-4:30 pm), UnderCover (5-7 pm) and Nineties by Nature (7:30-10:30 pm), local vendors, fall-inspired food specials, seasonal beer releases such as Apple Fritter Amber Ale, stein hoisting competition, apple cider slushies, autumn-themed cocktails and more. Harvest Fest is free and open to the public.

The Cider Project Official Launch Party

There’s a new cidermaker on the block in Western New York as The Cider Project will officially launch on September 30 at Groundwork Market Garden (4-7 pm). Led by cidermaker and pommelier Katie Campos, who, if her name sound familiar, has collaborated with Clarksburg Cider in the past, The Cider Project makes “dry, funky and delicious cider made from local spitters (the apples you’d never want to eat), and fermented to dryness in oak wine barrels over 15 months.” There will be draft pours of The Cider Project’s Wild Apple cider from the Wild Tap Wagon, cider 4-packs and t-shirts for sale, wood-fired pizza and Hanzlians sausages, live music by Olmsted Dub System, cold beer from Ed’s No Name Beer and more.

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: Rusty Nickel Harvest Fest, Beer Giveaways, New Cider From Clarksburg & Cider Project, WNY Beer Week, Arc Erie County Ale Trail, Beer Goddesses Anniversary appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Big Ditch Deep Cut DIPA Is Coming Back

Big Ditch Brewing’s Deep Cut Double IPA is making a comeback and will be available at both taproom, on draft and in 4-packs to-go, on Friday, May 23. Deep Cut was originally brewed in 2017, it’s been a few years since the brewery brought back this fan favorite, an 8.2% double IPA with notes of citrus, tropical fruit and wild berry, along with punchy hops, a moderate bitterness and a smooth, dry finish. A reference to, what else, the Erie Canal, Deep Cut is named for a hand dug 7 mile section of the canal 40 feet deep between the Flight of Five in Lockport and Lake Erie.

Other Half Buffalo Introduces New Happy Hour

Other Half has launched a new happy hour at their Buffalo taproom, every Tuesday-Friday, 4-6pm, in the taproom or the beer garden. There will be $6 select draft beers, $8 signature cocktails and pours of Annuelle wine, 6 chicken wings for $6 and $7 smash burgers. If you didn’t know, Other Half has moved into a new taproom at Seneca One, which features more seating and televisions, including a massive projection screen, pinball, foosball, darts, 18 taps and a food menu featuring vegan and vegetarian options.

Resurgence Brewing The Surge on Sale at Consumers

Resurgence’s The Surge IPA is now available at all Consumer’s Beverages for $8.99 per 4-pack. The Surge is a 6.5% New England style IPA is smooth and creamy with big citrus and tropical fruit notes. Resurgence president Jeff Ware says that the brewery was looking for a way to offer ‘a great beer at a great price in this time of prices being crazy.’ “Great, fresh beer at inflation buster pricing!” Ware said. The Surge is available in limited quantity at all Consumers locations now.

Rusty Nickel to Officially Open Beer Garden May 28

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 28, when the beer garden opens for the season. Rusty Nickel will have season brews and cocktails, there will be yard games like cornhole to place, and there will be fire pits and s’mores to enjoy. In the event of severe weather, a rain date will be announced.

Hoppy Hour Free Tasting Event at Bev Depot

Bev Depot in Cheektowaga is hosting a special Hoppy Hour tasting even ton May 24 (12-3pm). The event will feature 15 beer samples from craft breweries, exclusive in-store deals and more. Bev Depot is located at 2190 Walden Avenue and features more than 2,000 SKUs of beer, including a large selection of local options and a create-your-own 4-pack section for $15.99. In addition to beer, cider and mead, Bev Depot offers some food and snacks, mixers and soda as well. Bev Depot is open Monday – Sunday, 9 am – 10 pm.

Smoldered Society Tap Takeover at Magic Bar Beer Cellar

Smoldered Society is teaming up with Magic Bear Beer Cellar for a tasting on May 23 (6-8pm). The Smoldered Society team will be on hand sampling their wares, including their flagship Czech Pilsner, Strike Anywhere, Mass Delusion IPA (Nelson Sauvin, Motueka, Nelson Sauvin Hop Kief, Motueka Kief), Automotive Sentience (West Coast-style IPA brewed with Ekuanot, Amarillo and El Dorado hops and dry hopped with Nectaron, Mosaic Cryo and Simcoe Cryo), and more. The event is free and open to the public.

Rails & Ales at Rochester & Genesee Valley Railroad Museum

Rails & Ales is back at the Rochester & Genesee Valley Railroad Museum on Saturday, May 24 (12–3pm). At this unique event, guests can ride vintage trains to visit two craft beer stations on the museum’s grounds with tastings from more than a dozen breweries, including Sager Beer Works, Stoneyard Brewing, Watershed Brewing, Talking Cursive, Irondequoit Brewing and more. Tickets include unlimited train rides between stations, souvenir glass and full access to the museum. Tickets are $35 ($40 at the door) and can be purchased here. Refreshments will also be available for purchase (free soft drinks for Designated Drivers).

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: New Beer at Big Ditch & Resurgence, Rails & Ales, Rusty Nickel Beer Garden, Other Half Happy Hour, Bev Depot Tasting, Smoldered Society x Magic Bar appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Tickets Remain for 2025 Brewer’s Invitational

There are still tickets left for the 2025 Brewers Invitational. The sixth annual event will take place in Orchard Park for the first time ever on Feb. 23 (2-5pm). Tickets can be purchased here. Tickets are $60.03 (includes taxes and fees) and include a commemorative tasting glass, $5 food voucher to NYBP, and access to over 50 innovative brews from 30 local breweries, cideries and meaderies. Designated driver tickets are also available for the event. This year will feature the most craft vendors yet, according to New York Beer Project. A beer list will be announced soon. For more information, click here.

New York State Craft Brewers Fest Returns to Canalside June 21

The New York State Craft Brewers Festival: Buffalo returns to Canalside on June 21. The annual event is produced by the New York State Brewers Association and Western New York Brewers Guild. This year will feature fresh craft beer from over 50 breweries from every corner of the state, and 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.

Southern Tier Brewing Downshift NA IPA Now in Cans

Southern Tier Brewing’s first non-alcoholic beer, Downshift IPA, is now available in cans. This beer features all of the hallmarks of a traditional American IPA, just without the alcohol. “Shift gears into Southern Tier’s first non-alcoholic IPA,” the brewery says. “Downshift has all the big, hoppy flavor of a classic American IPA, with none of the alcohol. With less than 0.5% ABV, Downshift brings the flavor and lets you bring the party.” Downshift N/A IPA is on draft at all of Southern Tier’s taprooms, as well as in 6-pack 12oz. cans wherever great beer is sold.

Magic Bear Teams With Talking Cursive on New Collab

Syracuse’s Talking Cursive Brewing is next up on Magic Bear Beer Cellar’s collaboration list, with the team set to release RaspBeary Porter on Feb. 28 (5-7pm). The beer is a dry and roasty Irish-style porter brewed with a touch of raspberry. Derek from Talking Cursive will be on hand for the release to chat about the beer and sample a selection of the brewery’s other beers. There will also be food available from Brisket Love BBQ. Talking Cursive is a woman and veteran-owned brewery.

Wayland Brewing Introduces Beer in 16oz. Cans

After having their beer available in 12oz. cans since before their Orchard Park taproom even opened, Wayland Brewing is making the jump to 16oz. cans. The first beers to appear in the new can size is Super Deluxe IPA (a hoppy and citrus forward hazy IPA), Waylander German Pilsner (crisp and a touch dry with notes of malt and bread crust), and a new West Coast IPA, Case Study (a 6.5% modern West Coast IPA with Centennial, Strata and Mosaic hops), which will have wider availability at bars, restaurants, and select retailers starting this week.

Consumer’s Beverages, Community Beer Works Giveaway

Consumer’s Beverages and Community Beer Works have teamed up for a new giveaway in honor of CBW serving as Consumer’s Beer of the Month for February. The giveaway is for a CBW brewery jacket (size XL) and a $50 Consumer’s gift card. To enter, visit Consumer’s Facebook  or Instagram pages. One winner will be selected on March 8. All February long at Consumer’s, you can save $1 on all CBW 4-packs, 6-packs & 12-packs. Visit Consumer’s social media pages for more information.

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 Twitter (@buffbeerleague), Instagram, Threads and Untappd (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

The post Buffalo Beer Buzz: Brewer’s Invitational, NYS Craft Brewers Fest, New Beers at Southern Tier, Magic Bear x Talking Cursive, Wayland 16oz. Cans, CBW Giveaway appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Seneca Brewtopia Beer Festival at Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino

The first ever Seneca Brewtopia Beer Festival at Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino will take place on Nov. 23. Breweries scheduled to attend include Resurgence Brewing, BlackBird Cider Works, Founders Brewing, Great Lakes Brewing, 42 North Brewing, Labatt, Wicked Weed and Kona Brewing with more to be announced. Tickets are $40 (if purchased before Oct. 1) and $55 (if purchased Oct. 2 or after) and include commemorative sampling glass, $15 ticket exchange voucher and a soft pretzel. Tickets for the event can be purchased here.

Fifth Annual NYS Pint Days Returns May 2025

The 5th annual New York State Pint Days, a statewide event where $1 per pint glass sold at participating breweries directly supports the New York State Brewers Association, returns May 1-5, 2025. Each year the NYS Pint Days Glass features a unique design that celebrates NYS craft beer. This year’s commemorative glass will be designed by Em Sauter, an award-winning cartoonist and founder of Pints and Panels, a site dedicated to visual beer education. Participating breweries will be announced in the coming weeks and months.

Habitat for Humanity 2025 Craft Brew Tour Cards on Sale

The 2025 Habitat for Humanity’s Craft Brew Tour Card is available for pre-sale now. For $40, you’ll get a free drink at 33 of Western New York’s best breweries, distilleries, and bars, including 12 Gates, 42 North, Beer Kind Brewing, Big Ditch, Brazen Brewing, Buffalo Olde Brewery, Flying Bison, Hamburg Brewing, Hofbrauhaus, New York Beer Project, Pod City Beer Labs, Prosper, Resurgence,  Southern Tier Buffalo, Steelbound Brewery, Windy Brew, First Line, The Ridge West Seneca, Mystic Hills, and Woodcock Brothers, cider from Blackbird Cider, mead from Lilly Belle Meads and Queen City Meadery, and more. Only 3,000 will be available. All proceeds support Habitat Buffalo in building a home for a family in need. You can purchase online here.

Advent Beer Boxes on Sale Around Western New York

If you want to ring in the holiday season in style, consider picking up an Advent Calendar Beer Box. Each box includes 24 craft beers in a variety of styles, such as lagers, ambers, stouts, IPAs, sours and more. Cans and bottles are individually numbered and are meant to be enjoyed on each of the 24 days leading up to Christmas Day, beginning Dec. 1. You can purchase Advent Beer Boxes right now at Magic Bear Beer Cellar ($119), Consumer’s Beverages ($89.99), Fattey Beer Co. ($139.99), New York State Brewers Association ($149) and Bottle Rocket Beer Reserve ($120).

Enter to Win a $100 Bar Tab From Beer Kind Brewing

Step Out Buffalo and Beer Kind Brewing are teaming up to give away a $100 bar tab to the brewery and their self-pour tap wall. All you need to do to enter is click here and enter your name and email address. The giveaway runs through Nov. 25. In addition to their self-pour tap wall full of their own beer and some guest taps, Beer Kind offers hard seltzers, non-alcoholic beverages and more. Beer Kind’s beer is also now available in cans, either in single 16oz. cans or 4-packs, to purchase to go.

42 North Brewing Announces Barrel Jam V

42 North Brewing will host the fifth annual Barrel Jam on Saturday, Jan. 25 (2-5pm), which celebrates the art of barrel-aging beers with live music and winter sports. Participating breweries include Brewery Ardennes, Eli Fish Brewing, Meier’s Creek Brewing, Jack’s Abby, Drowned Lands, Ommegang, Strangebir, Prison City, Ellicottville Brewing, 1927 BrewHouse, 1911, and 42 North. The event also includes a Rail Jam ski/snowboard competition, live music from Olmsted Dub System and more. VIP tickets ($50) include all samplings, commemorative tasting glass and early entry and general admission tickets ($40) include samplings and tasting glass. Tickets are available at the 42 North taproom and at https://bit.ly/4fHwZ6A.

Big Ditch Brewing Drops Non-Alcoholic Beer, NA Burner

Big Ditch Brewing has released NA Burner, the first non-alcoholic brew canned in Buffalo in nearly a century. NA Burner packs all the hoppy aroma and flavor of Hayburner into a non-alcoholic IPA – a 12oz. can contains less than 0.5% alcohol by volume and contains only 50 calories. NA Burner is available now in 6-packs of 12oz. cans at Big Ditch’s taproom. The beer will also be available wherever great craft beer is sold and supermarkets across Western New York, including Wegmans, Consumer’s Beverages, Tops, Dash’s, and more.

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 Twitter (@buffbeerleague), Instagram, Threads and Untappd (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

The post Buffalo Beer Buzz: Brewtopia, NYS Pint Days, Craft Brew Tour Cards, Barrel Jam, NA Burner, Beer Kind Giveaway, Beer Advent Calendars appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Lilly Belle Meads, Magic Bear Beer Cellar Collab Release

Lilly Belle and Magic Bear have once again teamed up on a new mead – Melon Magic, a Traditional Honey Mead with Cantaloupe, Watermelon, Honeydew & a pinch of salt, which will be released at Magic Bear July 26 (5pm). Lilly Belle will also be sampling a number of their other meads for the release. The two first teamed up last year on a special mead – BEARy Peach Sangria, a white peach sangria style mead with apricot, pear, strawberry, and blueberry, with a hint of mint.

Big Ditch to Release New Sour This Weekend

Big Ditch Brewing will release Funhouse Mirrors, a 6.3% peanut butter and blackberry jam sour, on July 26. This pastry sour ale features roasty peanut butter and jammy blackberry notes, brewed “to evoke the joy you feel walking the fairgrounds, deciding which crazy food to eat or which insane ride to get on next.” Funhouse Mirrors will be available on tap and in 4-pack 16oz. cans this Friday at Big Ditch’s taproom. The beer will then see some limited distribution beginning next week.

Tickets Available for Wingfest VIP Craft Beer Fundraiser

Tickets to the Wingfest VIP Craft Beer Fundraiser on Saturday, August 31 at Highmark Stadium are on sale now. Tickets include all day admission to the Wingfest (12-9pm), access to the Buffalo Bills field, $15 in wing/food tickets, craft beer tastings, souvenir plate and tasting cup, free bottle Dan-O’s Spicy Seasoning, TUMS Wingfest Survival Kit and a charitable donation to Mafia Babes Charities and Hope Rises which supports pediatric cancer initiatives. Tickets are $75 and can be purchased here. Parking for the Wingfest is free.

Buffalo Spree Best of WNY 2024 Winners

Congratulations to all of the winners of Buffalo Spree’s Best of WNY 2024! Resurgence Brewing and Big Ditch Brewing tied for Best Brewery, Fattey Beer won for Best Beer Selection, Johnson’s Landing and Wayland Brewing tied for Best New Building, Britesmith Brewing and Hamburg Brewing tied for Best Patio, Southern Tier Brewing Buffalo won Best Spot to Watch the Game and Griffon Brewing won for Best View for Dining. Cheers to all – this is your sign you should pay a visit to these fine establishments soon. You can see all of the winners here.

12 Gates Closes Ellicottville Location, 12 Gates of EVL

Williamsville’s 12 Gates Brewing has closed their Ellicottville location, 12 Gates of EVL (14 Washington St.). In a statement posted to social media, 12 Gates said that they will not be renewing the lease. They add that any unused 12 Gates of EVL gift cards will be honored at their Williamsville taproom. “Effective immediately, 12 Gates of EVL will not be renewing the lease and is closing its doors. We thank you for two years of incredible memories and support. Please visit us at our Williamsville taproom for the same great brews and some friendly faces.” 12 Gates of EVL opened in November 2022.

Consumer’s Beverages Ballpark Brewbash Not Happening

Consumer’s Beverages has announced their Ballpark Brewbash, their annual beer festival at Sahlen Field, will not take place this year. They made the announcement on social media saying, “Due to scheduling conflicts, the 2024 Ballpark Brewbash will not happen this year. We hope to see you soon.” The unique beer festival takes place all around the home of the Buffalo Bisons, from down on the field to the concourse and concession area, and features more than 50 breweries, including some from across the globe, local favorites and New York institutions.

Resurgence to the Rescue Beer Can Release Party

Buffalo’s top dog and coolest cat will be celebrated at the annual Resurgence to the Rescue pet-friendly beer can release party on July 28 (12pm) at Resurgence Brewing. Top dog K9 Eci and cat Tarzan, winners of this year’s Resurgence to the Rescue Pet Photo Contest, are featured on the Resurgence summer beer cans. The release party will feature adoptable dogs and cats from Ten Lives Club and City of Buffalo Animal Shelter, pet photos, food, a basket raffle, vendors and more. Proceeds from the event will go towards saving cats and dogs.

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 Twitter (@buffbeerleague), Instagram (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

The post Buffalo Beer Buzz: Lilly Belle x Magic Bear, Ballpark Brewbash, Wingfest VIP Craft Beer Fundraiser, New Big Ditch Sour, Buffalo Spree Best of WNY 2024, 12 Gates of EVL, Resurgence to the Rescue appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Tickets Remain for CollaBEERation IV at The Powerhouse

Limited general admission tickets are still available for the fourth annual CollaBEERation Festival at the Powerhouse, April 13 (1-5pm). The unique event brings together members of the Buffalo Beer Geeks community to partner with 48 Western New York breweries, cideries, and meaderies to brew never-before-made libations. There will also be vendors, food trucks, and more. Attendees can vote on their top 3 collabs, with the winner taking home the BBG Championship Belt. This year features a pro wrestling theme. Guests are encouraged to dress up as their favorite wrestler and step into the ring for a photo with the belt. GA tickets ($70) can be purchased here. DD tickets are also available.

Pressure Drop to Release New Super Silver Haze IPA

Pressure Drop Brewing is adding another arrow to their quiver of IPAs on April 13 with the release of Super Silver Haze, an easy-drinking hazy IPA featuring a bright bouquet of orange blossom and mandarin orange. This 6% IPA is easy drinking and soft bodied, brewed to be enjoyed on 4/20, Pressure Drop’s most cherished day on the calendar.  Super Silver Haze will be available on draft and in 16oz. 4-pack cans to go.

Breweries, Cideries to Participate in Buffalo Restaurant Week

A number of local breweries, beer bars, bottle shops and cideries will take part in the spring edition of Buffalo Restaurant Week, which runs April 15-21. The weeklong event will feature signature lunch and dinner dishes from many of Buffalo’s best restaurants, all with special deals and offerings during this week only. Big Ditch Brewing, 42 North Brewing, Clarksburg Cider, Magic Bear Beer Cellar, New York Beer Project, RationAles and Wayland Brewing will all take part. Buffalo Restaurant Week is presented in partnership with the Western New York Chapter of the New York State Restaurant Association.

Resurgence, OnCore Golf, PGA Hope WNY Collab Returns

Resurgence Brewing has once again teamed up with OnCore Golf and PGA Hope WNY on Smash Factor, a sessionable 5.5% IPA that is light, soft, and easy drinking. The beer returns to Resurgence on April 13 (12pm) and the release party will feature putting and chipping games, giveaways (earn tickets with each beer purchased), and more. $1 per pint and $2 per 4-pack of Smash Factor sold will go towards WNY PGA Hope, a golf charity for veterans. Smash Factor will be available on draft and 4-pack cans all summer.

Steel Leaf Brewing to Open New Location on Hertel

Steel Leaf Brewing has announced plans to open a brewery and taproom on Hertel Avenue, located at 1488 Hertel Ave. The taproom will feature seating for 75 guests and will feature a large bar, main dining area, outdoor patio, and small event space, as well as a small production brewery for making R&D experimental beers. It is anticipated that the new Steel Leaf taproom will open by mid-2024. Steel Leaf will shortly begin hiring staff for the new space. Visit www.steelleafbrewing.com for job listings and application instructions.

Participating Breweries Announced for Thawfest at Riverworks

Buffalo Riverworks’ annual celebration of all things spring, Thawfest, which takes place April 26 (6pm), has announced their list of participating breweries, meaderies, and cideries, including Pearl Street, Lafayette Brewing, RiverWorks Brewing, Three Bear Meadery, Belt Line Brewery, Southern Tier, Flying Bison, 12 Gates, Big Ditch, Hamburg Brewing, Resurgence Brewing, Shalooby Loofer, Sad Boys, Buffalo Brewing, Marquee Brewing, BlackBird Cider, Clarksburg Cider, and more. Tickets are $60 and a portion of proceeds will benefit Hope Rises and The Firefighter Arno Memorial Foundation. Tickets include all tastings, finger foods, music from DJ Sike, and free parking.

Free Resurgence Brewing Glasses at Consumers Beverages

While supplies last, all participating Consumers Beverages are giving away a free Resurgence Brewing 391 IPA Ryan Miller pint glass with the purchase of (2) 4-pks of Resurgence’s 391 IPA. A portion of all proceeds from the release of 391 IPA will be donated to raise support for Ryan’s Fund; The Ryan Miller Legacy Fund in conjunction with the Courage of Carly Fund at Roswell Park. 391 IPA, a hazy IPA that celebrates Miller’s record 391 wins, and part of Resurgence’s Buffalo Legend Series, is a light bodied with notes of citrus and melon.

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 Twitter (@buffbeerleague), Instagram (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

The post Buffalo Beer Buzz: CollaBEERation, Thawfest, New Beers at Pressure Drop & Resurgence, Free Pint Glasses, Buffalo Restaurant Week, Steel Leaf Moving appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

I’ve written it in articles and mentioned it many times on my podcasts; I was bummed when I missed out on grabbing an Advent Beer Calendar in 2022. I vowed to not let that happen in 2023, so I didn’t, thanks to Consumer’s Beverages and their Advent Beer Calendar – twenty four expertly curated craft beers, each one a mystery, enjoyed daily throughout the holiday season.

The way it works is, each Advent Beer Box includes a variety of beer styles, including lagers, ambers, stouts, IPAs, sours and more. Cans are individually numbered and are meant to be enjoyed on each of the 24 days leading up to Christmas, beginning on December 1. Each beer itself is a mystery, meaning you never know what beer you are going to get on any given day.

Things started out well with a fresh Grimm Wavetable IPA, and then moved to one of my favorite dark lagers, Kostritzer Schwarzbier. The beer box featured a lot of beer new to me, which was the best part of the experience. From Bell’s Oberon Eclipse, a citrus wheat ale, to Foam’s Built to Spill Double IPA, Brewdog’s It’s a Beaut Clark, a pecan and toffee stout that turned out to be one of my favorite beers of the entire box, and so on and so forth. Having Pills Mafia on Sunday, Dec. 10 was a nice touch, though I would have liked another Bills-themed beers the following Sunday for game day, or even Dec. 23 for the Bills-Chargers game, but I ain’t mad at Troegs Mad Elf. It was tremendous to revisit beers like Unibroue La Fin Du Monde, Rohrbach Scotch Ale and Sierra Nevada Celebration as well. My only gripe was the inclusion of Boddington’s, a macro beer. It’s a fine enough beer, but still. I would have also preferred more local beers – the box was only 25% local. Again, I know that’s not the end all be all, but still.

Here’s what the 2023 Consumer’s Advent Beer Calendar featured:

• Dec. 1 – Grimm Wavetable IPA
• Dec. 2 – Kostritzer Schwarzbierbrauerei Schwarzbier
• Dec. 3 – Hamburg Brewing Blackberry Gose
• Dec. 4 – Lexington Brewing Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale
• Dec. 5 – Ellicottville Brewing Orange Chocolate Blonde Ale
• Dec. 6 – Bell’s Oberon Eclipse
• Dec. 7 – Foam Brewers Built to Spill
• Dec. 8 – Genesee Brewing Citrus Pils
• Dec. 9 – Boddington’s Pub Ale
• Dec. 10 – Thin Man Brewery Pills Mafia
• Dec. 11 – Brewdog It’s a Beaut Clark
• Dec. 12 – Fat Head’s Head Hunter IPA
• Dec. 13 – Rohrbach Brewing Scotch Ale
• Dec. 14 – Founder’s French Toast Bastard
• Dec. 15 – Thin Man Brewery Minkey Tango
• Dec. 16 – Ommegang Nitro Three Philosophers
• Dec. 17 – Unibroue La Fin Du Monde
• Dec. 18 – Brooklyn Black Chocolate Stout
• Dec. 19 – Sierra Nevada Celebration IPA
• Dec. 20 – Southern Tier Brewing Old Man Winter
• Dec. 21 – Big Ditch Brewing Kringle Juice IPA
• Dec. 22 – Victory Brewing Merry Monkey
• Dec. 23 – Troegs Mad Elf
• Dec. 24 – Breckenridge Brewery Christmas Ale

Overall, I quite enjoyed this experience. But then again, how could I not? Thank you to my friends at Consumer’s Beverages for the fun ride and all of the great beer. I’m already looking forward to doing this again next year.

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 Twitter (@buffbeerleague), Instagram (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

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Eli Fish Brewing to Hold Annual Oktoberfest in Batavia

Eli Fish Brewing will hold their annual Oktoberfest in Batavia on Sept. 16 (4pm). Eli Fish’s biggest celebration of the year features beer releases and a special Oktoberfest menu, including Oktoberfest and Festbier. Tickets are $15 at the brewery and at the door and include special Eli Fish trading cards. You can purchase a 2023 Oktoberfest t-shirt paired with your ticket for $30 or purchase an Oktoberfest mug for $10 (comes with one free pour, $5 refills through 9/15). There will be live music from The German American Musicians Association, stein hoisting contest, cornhole, keg racing, caricature artist, knoggle, and more.

Tickets on Sale for Second Annual Tap & Craft Festival

The second annual Tap & Craft Festival, coming to the Niagara Falls Convention Center on October 21, will feature craft brews from more than 40 craft breweries, wineries and cideries from Upstate New York, live music, food and a cornhole tournament. Tickets are $30 presale ($40 day of) and include admission, commemorative tasting glass and unlimited 3-ounce beer samples. Designated Driver tickets are $10. VIP tickets are $40 and include a special 1.5 hour tasting sessions curated by Brewed & Bottled and The Magic Bear Beer Cellar, commemorative pint glass and more. Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite via www.tapandcraft.com.

Hofbrauhaus Kickoff Oktoberfest With Eric Wood

Hofbrauhaus will officially kick off the Oktoberfest season on September 16 (6pm) with former Buffalo Bill Eric Wood. This full bodied beer is brewed with special Bavarian hops and malt variations to create notes of toasted malt sweetness, fruity hops and spice. Die Haus Band will lead the Barrel Tapping Parade at 6pm before a ceremonial barrel of Oktoberfestbier is tapped. The party will continue into the night with DJ BUCKW!LD. Reservations can be made online at www.hofbrauhausbuffalo.com or by calling 716-939-BEER.

Hamburg Brewing Company 10^th Anniversary Party

On September 16, Hamburg Brewing Company will celebrate 10 years. The event will feature food and drink specials, live music all day starting at 1:30pm from South City Band, Breakaway, and Uncle Ben’s Remedy, and more. The party runs from 1 – 8pm. The event is free and open to the public.

Queen City Meadery 5^th Anniversary Party

West Seneca’s Queen City Meadery is turning five and are celebrating on September 16 (2pm). The event will feature live music From Skinny G and the Meatballs (4-7pm), food from the Cheesy Chick food truck (3-6pm) and mead specials all day long. The event will also feature the release of their anniversary mead, Redrum, a 12% mead with honey, red currant and pomegranate aged of rum oak staves. Redrum will be available in bottles. The meadery also recently announced expansion plans at their current location at 290 Center Road in Wimbledon Plaza. Tentative plans call for the meadery to double the size of their tasting room and production area. The expansion should be done by the end of the year.

Ballpark BrewBash Takes Over Sahlen’s Field This Weekend

The 2023 Ballpark BrewBash returns to Sahlen’s Field this weekend on September 16. The unique beer festival, sponsored by Consumer’s Beverages, takes place all around the home of the Buffalo Bisons, from down on the field to the concourse and concession area, and features more than 50 breweries, including some from across the globe, local favorites and New York institutions. Tickets are on sale now at all Consumer’s Beverages locations. General admission tickets are $35 and VIP tickets are $75. For more information, visit https://www.consumersbeverages.com.

Borderland Festival Returns This Weekend

The 2023 Borderland Music & Arts Festival, which takes place September 15-17 at Knox Farm State Park in East Aurora, has announced its brewery lineup for this year, which is once again predominantly local. The lineup includes Community Beer Works, 42 North Brewing, Hamburg Brewing, Resurgence Brewing, Southern Tier and 12 Gates Brewing. This year’s festival features performances from Goose, Moe. and Trey Anastasio with Classic TAB. Purchase tickets at borderlandfestival.com.

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 Twitter (@buffbeerleague), Instagram (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

The post Buffalo Beer Buzz: Oktoberfest at Eli Fish & Hofbrauhaus, Anniversaries at Hamburg & Queen City Meadery, Tap & Craft Fest, Ballpark Brewbash, Borderland Fest appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.