SPCA Wine, Wags & Brews Fundraiser Slated for June 10

The SPCA Serving Erie County will host Wine, Wags & Brews, a fundraising event, on June 01 (5-8 pm) at the SPCA (300 Harlem Rd., West Seneca). The event will feature beer and cider, food samples, bakeries, food trucks, pet-themed vendors, raffles and more. Music will be provided by Buffalo’s own Nicholas Picholas. All proceeds will benefit the SPCA. GA tickets are $50, VIP tickets (includes early entrance, admission to VIP tent, appetizers, and premier seating) are $80, and DD tickets are $30. Purchase tickets here. Dogs are welcome, but not required and guests must be 21 or older to attend

Belt Line Brewery Releases Two New West Coast-Style Beers

Belt Line has tapped a pair of new beers representing the West Coast – Belt Line Pale Ale and West Coast Flashes. The former is a 5.6% hoppy Pale Ale brewed with Nelson and Cascade hops with notes of white grape and citrus and a clean finish, and the latter is a 7.3% West Coast IPA dry hopped with Citra Cryo, Cascade, Mosaic and El Dorado hops to create notes of malt sweetness and hop bitterness. Both beers are on tap at Belt Line.

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.

Tickets Still Available For New York State Craft Brewers Fest

Tickets are still available for the New York State Craft Brewers Festival: Buffalo at Canalside on June 13. 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).

BriarBrothers Brewing Throwing It Back For 4^th Anniversary

BriarBrothers Brewing is throwing it back to the early days of craft beer with their 4th anniversary on June 20. Starting bright and early at 11 am, the brewery is hosting an old school line share in the patio area – Autark will be on site pouring special offerings, beers from Ontario’s Nomxd Brewing will be available, along with special pours from Mortalis and OFW Brewing, including a new collab between Briar and OFW, Line Share, as well as three new special collabs between BriarBrothers and Nomxd. You can also bring bottles of your own to share. 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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Picture this – the sun is shining, there’s an ice-cold local lager in your hand, you walk up to the tee box, rip a swig, pull out your driver and blast a drive right down the middle of the fairway. Or in my case, you slice your drive to the right and immediately get upset. But I digress.

What says summer in Western New York more than local craft beer and golf?

There is so much great beer and so many great golf courses right here in our backyard. That’s no secret. And there are so many opportunities to do both this summer – that’s where craft beer golf tournaments come in. It’s a standard round of golf, usually in a scramble format, with craft beer tasting stations at various holes. Players sample beer from local breweries. It’s as lovely as it sounds.

Why should you join a craft beer golf tournament soon, you ask? I’ll tell you.

Breweries set up tasting stations at multiple holes, there are long drive contests, closest-to-the-pin and putting challenges, more beer than you could ask for, food, awards, prizes and more. And best yet – it’s perfect for casual golfers and craft beer aficionados alike.

Here are a few upcoming craft beer golf tournaments you can still get a foursome together for.

What: WNY Brewers Guild Annual Charity Golf Tournament

Where: August 24

When: Chestnut Hill Country Club

Tickets: www.WNYBrewersGuild.com

The WNY Brewers Guild Charity Golf Tournament is an annual event that offers golfers and craft beer enthusiasts an opportunity to play a round of golf, in addition to enjoying food, local beer, hole challenges, raffles and more. You’ll get a chance to meet and play with brewers and raise money for local charities. The cost to participate is $1275 per twosome ($525 per foursome) and includes golf, breakfast, lunch, steak dinner and food and drinks on the course. The 4-person scramble tournament will start at 10 am with a light breakfast and registration at 9 am.

What: 3rd Annual NYS Craft Beer Open Golf Tournament

Where: Midvale Country Club in Penfield

When: August 10

Tickets: https://nys-craft-beer-open.perfectgolfevent.com/

Mortalis Brewing and the New York State Brewers Association have come together to host the third annual New York State Craft Beer Open tournament, with 100% of the proceeds benefiting the NYS Brewers Association. The cost to enter is $200 per person ($800 per foursome), which includes access to the driving range, greens fees, golf cart, lunch, tee gift, reception and awards ceremony, craft beer and refreshments on the course and more.

What: Nickel City Brewz 2nd Annual Golf Tournament

Where: Elma Meadows Golf Course

When: September 19

Tickets: https://www.nickelcitybrewz.com/

Nickel City Brewz will host their second annual golf tournament at Elma Meadows Golf Course. The cost to participate is $120 per golfer ($480 per foursome) and features a tee gift, 18-hole scramble, on course contests, prizes, open bar with burgers, hot dogs and salads at Nickel City Brewz following the event (2-4 pm). A portion of the proceeds will go to benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention – Western NY Chapter.

What: Pars & Pints Tournament

Where: Spruce Ridge Golf Course

When: August 22

Tickets: https://spruceridgegolfcourse.com/

Tee off with Beer Justice Brewing at Spruce Ridge for the 3rd Annual Pars & Pints Golf Tournament on Saturday, August 22, which features an 18-hole, 4-person scramble, 12 beer tastings throughout the course, free pint at Beer Justice Brewing and lunch.

So grab your clubs, crack a few cold ones and remember – a bad day of golf is better than a good day at work.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to Expect:

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

Ticket Options:

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

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

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

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

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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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New York Craft Beer Day Returns on April 11

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

CollaBEERation Announces New Round of Collab Beers

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

Hofbrauhaus Royal Export Barrel Tapping With Buffalo Beer League

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

2026 Buffalo Flight Tour Now Available

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

Other Half Buffalo Drops New Sabres-Inspired Beer

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

Kleinhans Rhythm & Brews Fundraiser Returns May 8

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

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

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

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

New York Beer Project to Introduce Beer Project Lite

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

CollaBEERation Announces First Round of Collab Beers

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

Hofbrauhaus Royal Export Barrel Tapping With Buffalo Beer League

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

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

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

Resurgence Brewing Expands Citmo Family of Beers

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

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

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

 

It was a truly banner year – one of the best ever – for Western New York breweries at the 2026 New York State Craft Beer Competition as craft beer from the region once again showed up and showed out at this year’s awards, which took place Friday night (March 20) at the Albany Capital Center as part of the New York State Brewers Conference.

In total, 1,142 beers were entered by 178 breweries across 32 categories and 101 medals were awarded.

New York Beer Project and Eli Fish Brewing led the way with three and two medals each, respectively. NYBP won gold for Hazy Train (Hazy IPA) and silver for Righteous Day Drinker (Hazy DIPA) and Hazy Crush (Experimental IPA). Eli Fish grabbed gold for The Red Ale (Strong Ales & Lagers) and a silver for Tiga Spon (Experimental).

Rusty Nickel Brewing won gold for Pumpernickel Porter (Porters – Non-Imperial), Resurgence Brewing won silver for Bridge Pilsner (American Lager), Pearl Street Grill & Brewery won silver for Mangia, Mangia! Italian Pilsner (Light Lager – Modern and Contemporary), Brickyard Brewing won silver for Magnetic North (Belgian Farmhouse) and Griffon Brewing grabbed bronze for Oregon High Five (Pale Ale).

In what has become quite the common occurrence over the last handful of years, the NYS Brewery of the Year Award was presented to Grimm Artisanal Ales (Brooklyn, NY), marking their fifth win of the title (2021, 2022, 2024, 2025, 2026).

The 2025 Governor’s Craft Beer Cup given out each year to the beer that is deemed the best in the state, was awarded to Wild East Brewing out of Brooklyn for their Hexenkessel in the Dark Lager Category.

Last year, Resurgence Brewing won a silver medal for their White Ale (Wheat Beers), Pearl Street Grill & Brewery won gold for Saber’s Edge DIPA (one of my all-time favorite local beers) in the American DIPA category, Hamburg Brewing scored gold for OMS in Stout (Non-Imperial) and New York Beer Project Irish Coffee Stout took bronze in Specialty Beers (Stouts & Porters). WNY breweries swept the Experimental category, with Eli Fish Brewing scoring bronze for Chateau Tropicale, Resurgence’s Another Caucasian, Gary nabbing silver and Big Ditch Brewing going gold with their Carrot Cake Winter Ale.

There is remarkable beer being brewed on the daily right here in our backyard – all you have to do is look. These awards are simply further proof of that.

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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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.

New York Craft Beer Day Returns on April 11

The second annual New York Craft Beer Day will take place April 11, a day to celebrate and honor New York’s more than 500 independent craft breweries that support 22,000 jobs and generate a $4.8 billion economic impact. It is the perfect opportunity to head to your local brewery or visit a new spot on your bucket list and grab a pint and food and take home some beer. The New York State Brewers Association will release a limited edition commemorate pint glass in honor of the event, available at participating breweries, which will be announced soon. Visit https://thinknydrinkny.com/ for more information.

Buffalo Bisons Offering New Craft Beer Game Ticket Pack

The Buffalo Bisons and Southern Tier Brewing are once again teaming up for the Southern Tier Craft Beer Pack. This ticket pack features two undated game tickets (excludes specially-priced games) and four craft beer vouchers for $64. Sahlen’s Field regularly features a number of local craft beer options from the likes of Resurgence Brewing, Southern Tier Brewing, Hamburg Brewing, Big Ditch Brewing and more throughout the ballpark. You can purchase your STBC Craft Beer Pack here. The Bisons will kick off their 2026 season on March 27 against the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Rail Riders.

Wildflower Meadery Celebrates First Anniversary

Wildflower Meadery, located inside the Niagara Frontier Food Terminal (1500 Clinton Street, Unit 167), will celebrate their first anniversary on Feb. 28 (4 – 10 pm). The anniversary party will features two new taproom exclusive meads on tap and will serve as the launch of their all new Buzz Club. The taproom features a full selection of meads on tap, as well as in cans and bottles, non-alcoholic offerings like NA meads and mocktails, a limited food menu and packaged mead to go.

Brewery Owner To Open New Venture at Former Froth Taproom

Shamsher “Elvis” Singh, who also owns Everest Brewery in Niagara Falls, is planning to open a new nightclub, Peppers, at the former Froth Brewing taproom, located at 700 Military Road. Singh says that he envisions a bar with live bands, a DJ, dancing, full bar and dinner service, including American and continental cuisine during dinner hours, and drinks, dancing and other food options in the later hours, according to Buffalo Business First. A tentative spring opening is planned. Froth Brewing closed their taproom on Feb. 1 after 7 years.

Pizza Plant’s Belgian Beer & Chocolate Event Is Back

Pizza Plant’s annual Belgian Beer and Chocolate Festival returns on Feb. 11 (6 pm) to their Transit Road location. The event will feature a fine selection of Belgian beers, including Scaldis Noel, Ommegang Nitro Three Philosophers and Manhattan Shine, Brewery Ardennes Single and Oak Aged Triple, Delirium Tremens and more. Representatives from Ommegang will be on hand as well for the event with sweets and swag to giveaway. All flights will include samples of Belgian chocolates and there will be Valentine’s Day chocolates from Sweets by Em available to take home. 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).

The post Buffalo Beer Buzz: Golf Buffalo Expo, N.Y. Craft Beer Day, Bisons Craft Beer Ticket Pack, Wildflower Mead Anniversary, New Venture at Former Froth Taproom, Belgian Beer & Chocolate at Pizza Plant appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

The second annual New York Craft Beer Day will take place 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. New York is one of the top craft beer destinations in the country, ranking as the #2 state in the U.S. for the number of craft breweries.

NYS Brewers Association Executive Director Leone says that NYS Craft Beer Day was created for craft beer drinkers, a way to increase awareness for small businesses, breweries and craft beer. Leone hopes that all fans of craft will visit their local brewery for a pint or two, or drink something local at the very least. In short, New York State Craft Beer Day is a day to celebrate how far the New York state craft beer scene has come over the years.

“New York State Craft Beer Day was created to bring consumer awareness to the incredible beer that small craft breweries (also small and local businesses) are producing throughout the state,” Leone said. “It’s a day we hope every craft beer drinker will visit their local NYS brewery, many of which will be offering special events and discounts to commemorate the day.”

It is the perfect opportunity to head to your local brewery or visit a new spot on your bucket list and grab a pint and food and take home some beer. Given the current business climate and state of the scene, a day like this has never been more important, given all of the brewery and beer bar closures that have been happening as of late.

“[This is] the perfect day to show love and support to your local craft brewery by bringing your friends and family out to enjoy not only great food, but all of the incredible,
award-winning craft beer being produced throughout the state,” Leone said. “With so much economic uncertainty lately, there couldn’t be a more perfect time to support these small businesses and help them stay in business.”

By empowering small producers, strong local supply chains and a community that values creativity and diversity, New York is setting a new standard for what craft brewing can be. Whether you’re a hophead, lager lover, or casual sipper, there’s never been a better time to explore what New York breweries have to offer.

To commemorate the day, a special New York Craft Beer Day Collector’s Glass will be available at participating breweries while supplies last. Each limited-edition glass not only serves as a keepsake, but also gives back. $1 from every glass sold benefits the New York State Brewers Association, supporting its work in advocacy, education, and promotion on behalf of New York’s independent craft breweries.

A list of participating locations selling the 2026 Collector’s Glass and retail events can be found at www.thinkNYdrinkNY.com/new-york-craft-beer-day.

“New York Craft Beer Day highlights the passion, creativity, and resilience that define New York’s craft brewing industry. From small towns to major cities, breweries continue to bring people together and strengthen their communities,” Dawn Schulz, New York State Brewers Association board president and co-owner, Prison City Brewing, said.

Additionally a special badge can be unlocked on The Official New York Craft Beer App. The app is the first of its kind, offering a map of every brewery in the state and a passport rewards program. Click here 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).

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Buffalo On Tap Returns This Weekend

The 2026 edition of Buffalo on Tap will return to the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center this Saturday, Feb. 7. A participating brewery list is available here. The event will also feature live music, craft vendors and food. VIP tickets (12-4 pm, $63, including taxes and fees) include 4 hours of craft beer sampling, access to VIP area with exclusive beer, souvenir sampling glass and more, and General Admission tickets (1 – 4 pm, 5:30 – 8:30 pm, $43, including taxes and fees) include 3 hours of craft beer sampling and souvenir sampling glass. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased here.

Erie County Fair Homebrew & Cider Making Competition Returns

The 2026 Erie County Fair Homebrew and Cider Making Competition will begin accepting entries on April 1, with a deadline of May 4. The 2026 Erie County Fair Home Brew Competition winner will be based on “creativity of a quintessential summertime brew” and the Cider Making Competition winner will be based on “creativity of a summertime refresher.” The winning beer will be brewed at Hamburg Brewing, while the winning cider will be brewed by BlackBird Cider Works. Both will be available on tap at the fair, Hamburg Brewing and Resurgence Brewing, as well as in cans. Entries are $25 entries can be dropped off at Hamburg Brewing, Erie County Fairgrounds Main Offices or Resurgence Brewing.

NYS Craft Brewers Fest Nominated For National Award

The New York State Craft Brewers Festival at Canalside has been nominated for USA TODAY‘s Top 10 Beer Festivals. “Since 2013, the New York State Craft Brewers Festival in Buffalo has been dedicated to showcasing the diverse range of breweries that operate all across the Empire State,” the event listing reads. “In recent years, this summer event has provided attendees with access to more than 45 different New York businesses and award-winning beer, each one relying on brewery employees and representatives to pour rather than just volunteers. The festival travels throughout the state during the year, visiting four other locations.” You can vote daily through Feb. 23. The event is currently in fourth place.

Hofbrauhaus to Tap Doppelbock for Hunter’s Hope

Hofbrauhaus is tapping their Doppelbock on Feb. 5 (6 pm), brewed with Hallertau Magnum and Perle hops, along with Pilsner, Munich II, Caramunich III and Aromatic malts, to create a bready, toasted malt-forward body with subtle notes of cherry, plum, raisin and toasted bread. The release will benefit Hunter’s Hope, with Steven from Hunter’s Hope serving as the honorary Burgermeister. From Feb. 5 – 9, guests can round up their checks to support Hunter’s Hope. All guests in attendance will receive a complimentary pour of Doppelbock. For reservations, call (716) 939-BEER (2337) or visit www.hofbrauhausbuffalo.com.

Pearl Street Drops New West Coast IPA

There is a new West Coast IPA on tap at Pearl Street Grill & Brewery – Resin Runner. This 6% West Coast IPA is brewed with Simcoe and Centennial hops, with resinous notes, grapefruit, light malt, hoppy profile and vibrant red color. Resin Runner is available on tap right now at Pearl Street. Additionally, Old City Pizza is moving into the former Brawler’s Deli in the basement on Pearl Street. Old City Pizza will feature a massive brick oven, specializing in Neapolitan-style pizza, as well as a homemade pasta machine, and a new glass door entrance on Seneca Street.

Win VIP Tickets to Kenan Wine & Beer Bash

The Lock Tender is giving away a pair of VIP tickets to the Kenan Wine & Beer Bash, Feb. 21 at the Kenan Center Arena. The prize includes two VIP admission tickets and two commemorative tasting glasses. To enter, follow the Kenan Center and The Lock Tender on Instagram and then add a comment to the contest post. The giveaway ends Feb. 10 at 6 pm and the winner will be messaged directly.

The event will feature samplings from local craft breweries, wineries, distilleries, cideries and restaurants, along with live music from The Uptown Groove, food and more. This year’s event is being held in partnership with the Tap & Craft Festival, with a wine garden presented by The Lock Tender. General admission tickets are $45 and VIP is $65, and includes premier parking, an extra hour of tasting, exclusive wine and beer samples, free Blaster Ball and more. You can purchase tickets here.

Steel Leaf to Launch New “Epic” Small Batch Beer Series

Steel Leaf Brewing is set to introduce a new small-batch beer series at its Hertel Avenue taproom. The brewery plans to release a new beer every Tuesday in limited quantities – one weekly keg tapping featuring a unique beer flavor and style, or a “never flavor,” as brewery and owner Jeff Pitts puts it. “An epic story is about to unfold,” the brewery posted to social media. “We’ve traveled the world looking for legendary flavors. New epic never flavors. Super limited drops. Every. Single. Week. One keg at a time.” According to Pitts, each release will feature a unique fantasy-driven story. “I’m pretty excited about it,” Pitts said. “We are throwing tradition on its head. It’s kinda fun, fresh, and interesting.” Stay tuned to Steel Leaf’s social channels for release details.

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: Buffalo on Tap, New Beer at Steel Leaf, Hofbrauhaus & Pearl Street, NYS Craft Brewers Fest, Erie County Fair Homebrew Competition, Kenan Wine & Beer Bash Giveaway appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.