Oktoberfest Celebrations in Full Swing This Weekend

This weekend is a big one for Oktoberfest celebrations and parties all across Western New York. Eli Fish’s Oktoberfest takes place Sept. 19 with steinholding, cornhole, Knoggle, a German Spelling Bee, musical chairs, pong, live German music, traditional food, beer, dancing, prizes and more. The event is free and open to the public. Also on Sept. 19, Belt Line will host their Oktoberfest, featuring the release of their Oktoberfest, a traditional German Marzen, and German food specials, Mystic Hills’ Oktoberfest event (11 am, free) features an Oktoberfest beer tapping (1 pm), stein hoisting competitions (3 pm, 6 pm), food (Snowy Brook Farm, Meet & Eat Charcuterie, Under Fire Pizza) and readings from Kristin Quattlebaum and Gowanda Brewing’s Oktoberfest (4 pm) features live music by Hocus Polkas, German food and beer, games, prizes, hair braiding and more ($6 entry or $16 with commemorative glass, kids enter free). Gene McCarthy’s Harvest March & Oktoberfest Celebration takes place Sept. 20 with a 4-block march to Gene’s, blessing of the beer, release of O-Fest, German food, live music from The Polka Boyz and more. The event is free and open to the public.

Local Hollow Brewing to Celebrate Grand Opening

Local Hollow Brewing will celebrate its grand opening Sept. 17–19 at 10737 Main Street in Clarence Hollow. Events begin Thursday, Sept. 17, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 5:30 p.m., followed by a Buffalo Bills watch party. On Friday, Sept. 18, the Clarence Youth Bureau will provide games and face painting during Family Night. An outdoor Family Movie Night begins at 8 p.m. The celebration continues Saturday, Sept. 19, from noon to 10 p.m., with outdoor activities, local food trucks, New York State winery and distillery tastings, and live music by Justin Rizzo from 6 to 9 p.m. Located in the former Shalooby Loofer Brewing space, Local Hollow opened under new local ownership this summer.

Oktoberfest Beers Hit Taps and Shelves Around Western New York

Fall and Oktoberfest-style beers are out in full force all across Western New York. Among the new beer to fill your steins with are New York Beer Project has tapped a new Coffee Cake Stout at all locations (draft only, brown sugar and spice aromas, notes of cinnamon), Eli Fish Brewing has released cans of Oktoberfest (5.6% Amber German Lager), Festbier (5.8% Blonde German Lager) and Schwarzenpumpernickelroggenhaus (5.3% Dark Rye Ale), Hamburg Brewing has released a Pumpkin Spice Cider on draft and in cans (notes of apples, warm spices and bright, fruit-forward flavor), and BriarBrothers has a trio of beers – AuktoBrofest 2026 (Märzen collaboration with Autark Brewhouse), Dandy (Munich Dunkel collab with Autark) and Trinity Festbier. Southern Tier has a new Nitro version of their Warlock Imperial Pumpkin Stout and BlackBird Cider Works has a new Ghost Lantern Variety Pack, featuring the original Ghost Lantern, Hawaiian Ghost Lantern and Hot Honey Mango Ghost Lantern.

Bottle Rocket Beer Mile Back For 2026

Bottle Rocket’s annual Beer Mile returns on Oct. 11. What is a beer mile? It’s pretty simple – drink 4 beers and run 4 laps in alternating fashion as quickly as you can. It’s a 1-mile drinking event that combines running and speed drinking. It will take place on a 1/4 mile course surrounding Bottle Rocket. Space is limited and participation costs $30.26 (tax and fees included). There are three heats – 10 am, 10:30 am and 11 am. Beer served during the event will be Genesee Cream Ale. You can sign up for the Beer Mile here. The event is limited to a total of 90 participants. The overall male and female winners will win new gear from Brooks Running.

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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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).

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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).

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Golf Buffalo Expo 2026 Comes to Pearl Street

The Golf Buffalo Expo is coming to Pearl Street Grill & Brewery (third and fourth floors) on March 14 (3-6 pm) with a beer and spirits tasting, a market of local golf brands and a Players Championship Viewing Party. Tickets are $35 and include beer and spirits tastings from 10 craft brands, commemorative tasting glass, Players Championship Watch Party, local golf market featuring small and independent golf brands and more. Tickets can be purchased here. Kids under 16 get in free.

William Mattar Offers $20 Rideshare Vouchers for St. Patrick’s Day

The law offices of William Mattar are offering free $20 rideshare discount vouchers to eligible registrants to ensure everyone makes it home safe for St. Patrick’s Day. Registration runs through March 12, or until all 1,500 vouchers are claimed, and individuals who complete the online registration form and meet eligibility requirements will receive a unique rideshare voucher redeemable on March 15 from 12 am through 7 pm. To claim a voucher, visit WilliamMattar.com.

First Line to Debut Collabs With No BS Brew, Eli Fish

First Line Brewing will debut a pair of new collaborations on Friday, March 13. Southern Diesel, a collab with Batavia’s Eli Fish Brewing, is a 6% southern New England IPA brewed with Nelson Sauvin and Riwaka hops, as well as lemon diesel terpenes, and A Cascade of Mosaic, a collab with No BS Brew Company, is a 5.5% dry hopped cream ale. Both beers will be available Friday on tap at First Line in Orchard Park, as well as at Eli Fish and No BS.

Frequentem Buffalo to Introduce Lager Wednesdays

Celebrate clear beer on Wednesdays in the Old First Ward at Frequentem Brewing Buffalo at Lager Wednesdays. Every Wednesday, the brewery will host lager specials, milk pours, liters and snacks. In honor of the inaugural event, the brewery is bringing back 12º Czech Pale Lager, a 12º single decoction Czech Pale Lager brewed with Saaz and lagered in horizontal lager tanks. 12º Czech Pale Lager is drinkable, approachable, crisp and lightly bready. Half liters of the beer will be $5 and they come with a free snack. The event is free and open to the public weekly.

Other Half Brewing Launches New Beer Series, Peak Season

Other Half Brewing is looking to get back to basics with the launch of a new beer line, Peak Season, beers inspired by the year-round styles. The first two beers up in the new line is a hefeweizen and dry Irish stout. Canary Feathers is a soft and slightly hoppy hefeweizen brewed with hand selected Motueka & Zumo hops and traditional hefeweizen yeast, which features notes of lemon citrus. Bang On is a bitro-infused dry Irish stout brewed with caramel and roasted malts for a smooth roastiness and notes of coffee and caramelized sugar. Look for both of these beers at Pother Half Buffalo this week.

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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Oktoberfest Celebration at Eli Fish Brewing

Eli Fish Brewing is celebrating Oktoberfest on Sept. 13 (5 pm) at their Batavia taproom with live music, dancing, German beers, food, games, activities, and more. The party will feature their annual Oktoberfest – a rich and bready lager brewed with New York Munich-style malt and noble German hops. Eli Fish will also have their Festbier, Klosterbock Weizendoppelbock, Norm! Kolsch, and more, on tap for the party. Tickets are $10 pre-sale and $15 at the door. You can purchase tickets here.

Smoldered Society Releases New Version of Illusion of Safety DIPA

Smoldered Society has released the fourth version of their flagship double IPA, Illusion of Safety. The beer features a base of flaked oat and flaked wheat, British Ale yeast with Amarillo Cryo, Amarillo HopBurst, Rakau, and Rakau Subzero Hop Kief hops. Illusion of Safety DIPA 4.0 features aromas of melon and notes of bright citrus, subtle pine and stone fruit. You can find Illusion of Safety right now wherever Smoldered Society beer is sold across Western New York, including Lexington Co-Op (both locations), The Beer Keep, Fatter Beer (Lancaster, Kenmore), and more.

Hamburg Brewing 12^th Anniversary Party

Make it a dozen years for Hamburg Brewing as they celebrate their 12^th anniversary on September 13 (12 pm). The event will feature live music from Breakaway (4 – 6:30 pm) and Nineties by Nature (7 – 9:30 pm), multiple bars, food specials, and more. The party will also feature the debut of Hamburg’s 12^th anniversary beer, Belgian Pale Ale with Peaches & Plums. The beer pours a bright orange haze with tart and fruity undertones. There will be a $10 cover at the door for the event, which can be paid via cash or Venmo. All attendees must be 21+ to drink beer, wine or liquor. Cover charge is also for those 21+. No dogs allowed.

Seneca Allegany Casino To Host Seneca Sips Beer & Wine Festival

On Sept. 13, Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino will host the Seneca Sips Beer & Wine Festival (2-6 pm). The festival will feature beer tasting from 42 North, Big Ditch, Buffalo Olde, Ellicottville Brewing, Founders, Hamburg Brewing, Resurgence, and Southern Tier Brewing, cider from 1911 Cider and BlackBird Cider, and more. There will also be live music from Uncle Bens Remedy and The Iron Eyes Experience and a pig roast. General Admission Sampler tickets are $50 (include tastings, food, and $20 in Free Slot Play) and Non-Sampler tickets are $35 (include food, two non-alcoholic drink tickets and $20 in Free Slot Play). Tickets are available at SenecaAlleganyCasino.com.

Clarksburg Cider Parking Lot Sale Returns

Stock up on cider at Clarksburg Cider’s latest parking lot sale on Sept. 17 (3-6 pm) at 4493 Walden Avenue in Lancaster. The sale includes BOGO mix and match 4-packs and cases of Summer Tea, Vanilla Spice, Cherry Lavender and Galaxy Grove ciders, special deals on barrel aged cider bottles and mystery prizes for anyone who buys a case of cider. Clarksburg will also have their Buffalo Bills-themed cider, Shout!, for sale.

German Beer Education Class at Magic Bear Beer Cellar

Magic Bear Beer Cellar and owner Craig Altabello, a certified Cicerone, are hosting a special German beer education class, Get The Most of Prost!, a guided beer class that celebrates the variety, culture, and evolution of German beer, on Sept. 17 (6:30 pm). Tickets are $35 and include curated beer samples, snack board with meats and cheeses, a guided tasting experience and more. Classes may be cancelled if minimum reservations are not met. In the event of cancellation, you’ll receive a full refund. Space is limited – reserve your spot 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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Genesee Country Village & Museum’s Hop Harvest Festival

Genesee Country Village & Museum will host the Hop Harvest Festival on Aug. 30, an event that allows guests to experience the journey of hops from field to foam. Festival goers will be able to join costumed historical interpreters for hands-on hop harvesting in the Hop Yard, tour the only working 19th-century brewery in the U.S., sip on historical craft beers, enjoy German food and dance and more. The event is free for museum members. Tickets are $23 and can be purchased here. Tickets can also be purchased day-of for an additional $2.

Prost! Fest 2025 at New York Beer Project

On August 31, New York Beer Project in Lockport and the NYBP Beer Lodge in Orchard Park will host Prost! Fest, a celebration of all things Oktoberfest that features the annual release of their Prost! Oktoberfest. The day will feature a NYC Brunch in the Biergarten (10am-2pm) followed by the tapping of Prost! There will also be German food specials, including NYBP’s Biergarten Bavarian Pretzel, as well as exclusive Prost! merch, and live music from 2-5 pm. Prost! is a copper colored marzen with notes of toasted bread and caramel.

Big Ditch Brewing to Release New Hazy IPA

Big Ditch Brewing is dropping a brand new hazy IPA this week – Drencher, a tribute to late summer storms – “those sudden, heavy downpours that soak the streets, clear the air, and vanish just as fast.” Brewed with Mosaic and Krush hops, this hazy IPA is bold, citrusy and dank with a soft body. Drencher will be available on draft and in cans (16oz. 4-packs) at both Big Ditch taprooms on Friday, August 29.

Thin Man Brewery, Other Half Collab on New IPA

Thin Man and Other Half are back again with another hazy IPA with a food-inspired name – Risotto Moon River, a 4.5% hazy dry hopped Session Pale Ale with Idaho 7, Idaho 7 Cryo, El Dorado, El Dorado Cryo, Moutere and Citra Hyperboost hops. Risotto Moon River will be available on tap at select bars and restaurants around Western New York and in cans wherever great craft beer is sold.

Magic Bear, Eli Fish Team Up on New Sour Ale

For their latest collaborative brew, Larkin’s Magic Bear Beer Cellar is turning to Batavia and Eli Fish Brewing Company. They have teamed up on El Guapo Spritzy Bear, an Aperol Spritz-inspired sour ale with bright, citrusy flavors, which will be released on August 29 (5-7 pm) at Magic Bear. The beer will be available on tap at the beer bar, there will be free tastings and food from Matt of HAPPY! Tacos. The event is free and open to the public.

Stuff Your Trunk Sale at Ellicottville Brewing Little Valley

Ellicottville Brewing is hosting another Stuff Your Trunk sale at their Little Valley location on August 29 (4 – 7 pm) featuring BOGO deals on EBC, Pressure Drop Brewing and limited edition beers, special merchandise and more. The brewery will also be offering free tours of their Little Valley production facility. Sundae Drive Ice Cream Truck will be on-site for the event. The Stuff Your Trunk sale is free and open to the public. EBC Little Valley is located at 202 2nd Street in Little Valley.

First Line Brewing to Celebrate Fifth Anniversary

Orchard Park’s First Line Brewing is celebrating their fifth anniversary this weekend on August 30. They will have new beers on tap, live music, craft vendors, food, bourbon, cocktails and more. “We can’t thank you all enough for the support and love over the years. We are extremely blessed to hit 5 years of business and cannot wait to see what the next 5 years bring!” brewery owners Shane Stewart and Michael Maiorana said. “We love you all so much and hope to see you at the 5 year party.”

Unique Beer Through the Ages at Buffalo Iron Works

Buffalo Iron Works is hosting a unique beer event on September 5 (6:30 pm), Beer Through the Ages: A Modern Country x Buffalo Beer Experience, a curated tasting event that pairs four Buffalo brews, each released in a different era of the city’s modern craft beer movement, with popular country songs from the same time period, performed by Dead End Highway. Featured breweries include Flying Bison, Community Beer Works, Thin Man Brewery, Big Ditch Brewing, and Resurgence Brewing. The event is hosted by The BuffaloBeerfluencer, Emily Sorokes. Tickets are $15 for general admission and $45 for admission and four beer tickets. You can purchase tickets here. Click here for more information on the event.

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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Eli Fish Brewing Company has been selected as the inaugural recipient of the New York State Brewers Association’s new Social Impact Grant, an initiative designed to foster equity, inclusion, and opportunity within the craft beer industry.

This $2,500 grant will fund the Cicerone® Certified Beer Server certification for all female staff at Eli Fish, giving them the tools and credentials to advance in a traditionally male-dominated field.

“We’re incredibly honored to be the first recipients of this grant,” said Adam Burnett, head brewer at Eli Fish. “It’s not just about professional development – it’s about confidence, credibility, and visibility. We believe this investment in our team will resonate throughout our brewery and our community.”

The NYSBA’s Social Impact Grant program will award $10,000 annually to support New York breweries that propose initiatives to promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and community impact.

“This is about putting our values into action,” said Paul Leone, executive director of the NYSBA. “Eli Fish’s proposal set a strong example of what this grant can do—providing lasting tools that empower the next generation of beer professionals.”

Eli Fish Brewing has long been a leader in the Western New York craft scene, known not only for its innovative beers but also for its commitment to community and culture. With this new initiative, the brewery continues to pave the way forward.

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Buffalo Olde Announces Community Bike Tour

Buffalo Olde Brewery, located at the intersection of East Lovejoy Street and North Ogden Street in Buffalo’s Lovejoy District, has announced the launch of a new pedal bike tour. Tours will be available Thursday – Sunday and customers can reserve for up to 13 people. On the two-hour excursion, groups will pedal through the Lovejoy neighborhood and surrounding area while enjoying Buffalo Olde beer and cocktails. In addition, Buffalo Olde announced a slate of live entertainment, including local and regional acts, every Thursday and Saturday through the end of May. For more information, visit thebuffalooldebrewery.com.

Cider Week New York Blooms This Spring

Cider Week New York returns from Saturday, May 3 through Sunday, May 11, 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. For a full event calendar and map of NY cideries, visit www.ciderweeknewyork.com. Clarksburg Cider will take part this year. The event is presented by the New York Cider Association.

Iron Cedar Brewing & Meadery Opens Across From Airport

Iron Cedar Brewing & Meadery is now open across from the airport at 4345 Genesee Street, attached to the Comfort Inn. The new taproom is currently open with food and a selection of house brewed mead. Due to a delay with their brewing equipment, they will not have beer on tap for a few weeks. Owner Nicholas DeMarco says that the taproom offers a “fun laid back drinking experience [that will] accommodate travelers coming into Buffalo from the airport, but also keep things light and cheerful for the people who live in the area.” You can find more information here.

Southern Tier to Re-Release Throwback Beers for One Night Only

Don’t Call It A Comeback, because for one night only, on May 3 (11pm), 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, Porter, Chautauqua Lager, Live Session, PMX, Raspberry Wheat and more. All of these beers will be available on draft for a limited time. There will be live music from Public Water Supply (1-4pm) and Dark Water Duo (6-9pm), special food features and more. The event is free and open to the public.

The Art of Beer Returns to Niagara Arts & Cultural Center

The 2025 Art of Beer will return to the Niagara Arts & Cultural Center on May 2. The 17th annual event will feature beer, wine and cider tastings, along with culinary pairings, live entertainment on multiple stages and more. Tickets are $40 and include a commemorative beer glass, all beer, wine and cider samplings, food from a number of Niagara restaurants, free parking, local hotel discounts and after-party access. The Art of Beer also serves as a fundraiser to support the Niagara Arts and Cultural Center. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased here.

Eli Fish Brewing 7^th Anniversary Party

Batavia’s Eli Fish Brewing are celebrating seven years on May 3 with a day-long party complete with indoor and outdoor activities, live music, giveaways, raffles and more. The first 200 people in the door (21 and over) will receive punch cards good for one free beer each week for a year, there will be a mug club membership giveaway at 11am, Guess That Beer game at noon, live music from DJ Scotty D and The Ohms Band, Eli Fish beer trailer in Jackson Square, ice cream truck with specialty beer floats, The Great Fish Race and more. The event is free and open to the public. You can find more information here.

Mortalis Brewing Drops Star Wars-Inspired Beers

Use the force at Mortalis Brewing and prepare yourself for May the Fourth with the release of a number of Star Wars-inspired beers. On Thursday, May 1, the brewery will drop Mangolorian, a Double IPA brewed with Citra, New Zealand Cascade and Mosaic hops and mango puree, Hydra: Blue Milk, a fruited smoothie sour with blue raspberry, strawberry, pineapple, cream, and coconut and Oldmanbearma: Citra, a DIPA with Citra, Simcoe, Cryo Citra, and Terp Sauce Citra hops. All three beers will be able in 4-pack cans to go and on draft at 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).

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Big Ditch and Theatre District Association Brew New Beer

Big Ditch Brewing and the Theatre District Association of Western New York have teamed up on a new kolsch, Open Curtain, which will serve as the official beer of the Theatre District Association’s new season. The beer is a 5.3% easy drinking, slightly fruity and bready, German-style lager/ale hybrid. Or as Big Ditch says, it’s a “beverage that pairs wonderfully with drama, comedy and everything in between.” Open Curtain will be available starting Friday, Sept. 13 at Curtain Up on Main St. It will also be available at theatres and restaurants in the Buffalo Theatre District all season long, as well as at the brewery.

Hamburg Brewing 11^th Anniversary Party

Hamburg Brewing is throwing it back to the 90s to celebrate their 11^th anniversary on Sept. 14 (12pm). The event will feature 90s fashion, live music from IOT Band (1pm), South City Band (4pm) and Nineties by Nature (7pm), multiple bars, food specials, and more, including Dunk the Brewer, a new carnival style dunking game features Hamburg Brewing’s brew staff. There will be a $10 cover at the door for the event.

Oktoberfest Celebration in Jackson Square with Eli Fish

Eli Fish Brewing is celebrating Oktoberfest on Sept. 14 in Batavia at Jackson Square. The brewery will have a beer trailer set up in the square pouring German beers, including Oktoberfest and Festbier, a traditional Bavarian food stand serving bratwursts, pretzels, schnitzels, and more, pizza from Matty’s Pizza, games including stein-holding, vendors, traditional German music by the German-American Musicians, traditional dance performances and more. Tickets are $18 in advance, $20 at the door, and can be purchased here.

Food & Beer Pairing at Butera’s / Village Brew House

Butera’s Craft Beer & Craft Pizza in Hamburg are hosting a Food & Beer Pairing on Sept. 19. The event will feature five courses, each paired with a different Village Brew House beer. The pairings include VBH ‘Merica Lite Lager and Tomato Bruschetta, VBH Pizza Cake Pilsner and Pear & Prosciutto Flatbread, VBH Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It and Orange Citrus Chicken Salad, VBH Use Your Illusion and Steak & Roasted Potatoes and VBH Pandemic Porter and Chocolate Raspberry Flourless Torte. Tickets are $75 per person, including gratuity. Reservations can be made at 716-648-5017.

Buffalo Beer Goddesses 12^th Anniversary Party

The Buffalo Beer Goddesses are celebrating a dozen years of supporting women and promoting diversity in the beer industry on Sept. 19 at Mr. Goodbar. Admission is $10 (cash) for non-members and $5 (cash) for members and includes Goodbar chicken wings, food provided by BBG members, and drink samples from local vendors. The first 50 attendees also get their first pint of beer on the BBGs. Anyone who identifies as a woman/NB person interested in joining as a member, speak with a BBG officer at the door to find out how to register. The party is also open to non-members.

New Buffalo Bills Beers at Mortalis, Other Half & Sad Boys

The new football season is in full swing and with it comes a plethora of Buffalo Bills-themed beers. There are so many to choose from locally, and that list continues to grow with new beers at Mortalis Brewing, Other Half and Sad Boys Brewing. Mortalis’ Gemini: Circle the Wagons is a fruited smoothie sour brewed with blueberry, raspberry, marshmallow, and walnut. Sad Boys Mafia Made Man American Ale features aromas of toasted bread and notes of caramel and nuts, and Other Half’s Brocpile Imperial IPA, brewed with Citra, Motueka, Comet, and Vic Secret hops, and Tables on Tables IPA, brewed with Citra, Strata and El Dorado hops, are back for the new season. All beers can be found at their respective taprooms on draft and in 16oz. 4-pack cans to go.

Smoldered Society Releases New Version of Illusion of Safety DIPA

Smoldered Society has released a new version of their flagship double IPA, Illusion of Safety. The beer features Cashmere and Sabro hops in the boil, dry hop additions of Cashmere, Citra Cryo, and Motueka hops, with additional Phantasm Powder added. It features notes of candied stone fruit, white grape, and citrus zest. You can find Illusion of Safety right now The Beer Keep, Mr. Goodbar, Colter Bay, Moor Room, Moor Pat, Allen Burger Venture and all Buffalo area Fattey Beer locations.

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: New Beer at Big Ditch & Smoldered Society, Eli Fish Oktoberfest, Butera’s Beer Dinner, Hamburg & Beer Goddess Anniversaries, New Bills Beers appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.