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.

Buy a Nickel City Brewz Gift Card For 50% Off

If you’ve yet to check out Nickel City Brewz in Depew, or are just looking for a great reason to stop back in for a few pints, Daytime Buffalo is giving you the chance to do so by offering a $50 gift certificate to the craft beer bar for only $25 (you will receive two $25 certificates). “Nickel City BrewZ combines the best traits of a craft-beer bottle shop, a neighborhood bar, and a social hangout,” the offer says. “Their rotating taps and to-go options make it flexible and fun to experience the best of the Buffalo brewing community.” You can purchase yours here while supplies last.

Buffalo Barrels & Brews at Butera’s With Buffalo Distilling

Butera’s, Buffalo Distilling and the Village Brew House are teaming up to host a special night of craft beer, food and whiskey – Buffalo Barrel & Brews – on June 30 (6 pm). There will be complimentary bourbon tastings from Buffalo Distilling and beer samplings from Village Brew House, as well as a presentation exploring the history of bourbon and brewing in Buffalo. Throughout the evening, there will be featured bourbon cocktails, draft beer specials and more. The event is free and open to the public – reservations are encouraged as seating is limited.

Wines in the Wild Returns to the Buffalo Zoo

Wines in the Wild returns to the Buffalo Zoo on June 18 (5-8 pm). The special event features beverage and food sampling from local wineries, cideries, meaderies and breweries, as well as live music, special appearances from the Zoo’s animal ambassadors and more, all spread throughout the grounds of the Buffalo Zoo. The event will feature Brazen Brewing, Mortalis Brewing, Lilly Belle Meads, Rusty Nickel, OSB Ciderworks, and more. Funds raised from Wines in the Wild will go directly to supporting the Buffalo Zoo. General admission tickets are $55, designated drivers tickets are $25 and VIP are $75 (early entry). You can purchase tickets here.

Flying Bison Night at the Ballpark at Sahlen Field

Flying Bison Brewing is hitting the field on June 18 for Flying Bison Night at the Ballpark at Sahlen Field on Thursday, June 18. The festivities start at 5:30 pm with a beer sampling with Flying Bison founder and Godfather of Buffalo craft beer, Tim Herzog, at the Fattey Craft Beer Corner before he throws out the ceremonial first pitch. Then, as the Buffalo Bisons take on the Charlotte Knights at 6:35 pm, fans can purchase 16oz. Buffalo Lager cans at Concessions 116, 100, and 111 throughout the game. Tickets for the game are $10 and can be purchased here.

The Pickle Party at The Lock Tender

The Lock Tender is celebrating all things pickle at The Pickle Party on June 20. The event will feature more than 30 sour, pastry sour, fruited beer and cider tastings from Mortalis, Drekker, Prairie Artisan Ales, Other Half, Urban Artifact, Spyglass, Heavy Reel, Dewey, Beer Tree, Rising Storm, Prison City, Big Ditch and more. Tickets are $30 and include 12 4-ounce tasting samples, commemorative tasting glass, one $5 draft beer and 15% off food and to-go beer purchases. There will also be a special pickle-themed menu, tapping of The Lock Pickler, a new collaboration with Talking Cursive Brewing, and live music from the FAR Trio. Tickets can be purchased at www.thelocktender.com/events.

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: Waldfest, Nickel City Brewz Deal, Buffalo Barrels & Brews, Wines in the Wild, Flying Bison Night at the Ballpark, The Pickle Party appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Other Half Brewing Introduces Non-Alcoholic IPA

Other Half Brewing has released a new non-alcoholic IPA, All In, brewed with Citra, Simcoe, and Centennial, to drink like a real Other Half IPA. “You asked for it, we answered: All In Hazy Non-Alcoholic IPA. No shortcuts. No compromises. It’s not like any NA IPA you’ve tried before. Because it actually tastes good,” the brewery said. All In is available in 6-pack 12oz. cans at all Other Half taprooms, select retailers, and online for at-home delivery.

Buy a Nickel City Brewz Gift Certificate For Half Off

If you’ve yet to check out Nickel City Brewz in Depew, or are just looking for a great reason to stop back in for a few pints, Daytime Buffalo is giving you the chance to do so by offering a $50 gift certificate to the craft beer bar for only $25 (you will receive two $25 certificates). “Nickel City BrewZ combines the best traits of a craft-beer bottle shop, a neighborhood bar, and a social hangout,” the offer says. “Their rotating taps and to-go options make it flexible and fun to experience the best of the Buffalo brewing community.” You can purchase yours here while supplies last.

Donovan Orchards Estate Ciders Taproom Closes For Season

Donovan Orchards Estate Ciders taproom in Barker, located on a 38-acre Lakeside apple orchard, is closed for the winter season. The cidery was founded in 2006 by Scott Donovan and Margaret Glover. In addition to commercial fruit growing operations and cider production capabilities, Donovan Orchards has fruit pressing services. Click here for more information.

The Art of Beer Returns to Niagara Arts & Cultural Center

The 2026 Art of Beer will return to the Niagara Arts & Cultural Center on March 6, 2026. The 18th annual event will feature beer, wine, and cider tastings, along with culinary pairings, live entertainment on multiple stages, and more. Tickets include a commemorative beer glass, all beer, wine, and cider samplings, food, and more. The Art of Beer also serves as a fundraiser to support the Niagara Arts and Cultural Center. Ticket information will be released soon. You can find more information here.

Schwarzbier Barrel Tapping at Hofbrauhaus Buffalo

Get your New Year started right with Hofbrauhaus on Jan. 8 as they hold their first keg tapping of 2026, Schwarzbier. A parade and barrel tapping will be held at 6 pm with celebrity keg tapper, Anthony from 103.3 The Edge’s “Cass & Anthony.”  This is a dark German lager that balances roasted, yet smooth, malt flavors with moderate hop bitterness. The lighter body, dryness and lack of a heavy aftertaste help to make this beer quite drinkable. All guests will receive a complimentary pour of Schwarzbier after the barrel is tapped. For reservations, call (716) 939-2337 or visit www.hofbrauhausbuffalo.com.

Ring in the New Year Twice At Hofbrauhaus Buffalo

Hofbrauhaus is celebrating a pair of New Year’s, taking part in both the German and American New Year’s. Die Haus Band takes the stage early at 4 pm to begin the family-friendly German celebration, which will feature German beer, German food, live music and ball drop at 6 pm. The event is free and open to the public.

Then at 9 pm, Hofbrauhaus sets its sights on the American New Year’s with a party that includes live music from Nerds Gone Wild, a champagne toast, a New Year’s Eve Grab Bag (includes party accessories such as hats and noisemakers), and more. Tickets for the event are $20 and can be purchased here or at the door.

Ring in the New Year the Right Way at a Brewery

If you want to end your 2025 in style and start your 2026 out on a high note, grab an Uber or Lyft and head to a party at a local brewery. New York Beer Project in Lockport will host the New Beer’s Eve Party (8:30 pm, $30.80), which brings New Year’s Eve in Time Square to Western New York, ring in 2026 at Resurgence Brewing’s New Year’s Eve Bash (9 pm, $89) with an open bar and more, The Best Year’s Eve Party Ever at Buffalo RiverWorks (8 pm, $80) features live music from XOXO Pop Band, 4-hour open bar, illuminated dance floor and more, New Year’s Eve Bash at Steel Leaf Brewing (8 pm, $90) features a confetti cannon blast at midnight, food, open bar and more, Jam in the New Year at 42 North Brewing (8 pm, free) with a family-friendly event and Big Ditch’s New Year’s Eve party (8 pm, $90) features open bar with exclusive beer releases, live DJ, view of Electric Tower ball drop, fireworks at midnight and more.

William Mattar Offers $20 Uber Ride Discount Vouchers

The Law Offices of William Mattar are offering Uber vouchers for New Year’s Eve through the 2025 William Mattar Safe Ride Home 4 the Holidays program. The initiative provides community members with a safer alternative to impaired driving by offering free $20 Uber ride discount vouchers for eligible registrants. Vouchers are redeemable Dec. 31 at 8 pm through Jan. 1 at 8 am. To register for a voucher and learn more about the program, visit WilliamMattar.com. Only 1,000 vouches are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

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 Year’s Eve, Other Half NA IPA, Art of Beer 2026, Donovan Estate Closes For Season, Nickel City Brewz Deal, Uber Vouchers, Hofbrauhaus NYE & Barrel Tapping appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

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 25
• When: Chestnut Hill Country Club
• 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 $150 per person ($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: Second Annual NYS Craft Beer Open Golf Tournament

• Where: Midvale Country Club in Penfield
• When: August 11
• Tickets: https://nys-craft-beer-open.perfectgolfevent.com/

K2 Brothers Brewing and Mortalis Brewing have come together once again to host the second 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 1st Annual Golf Tournament

• Where: Elma Meadows Golf Course
• When: August 15
• https://www.nickelcitybrewz.com/

Nickel City Brewz will host their first annual golf tournament at Elma Meadows Golf Course. The cost to participate is $100 per golfer and features a tee gift, 18-hole scramble, closest to the pin and longest drive contests and open bar with burgers, hot dogs and salads at Nickel City Brewz following the event (2-4 pm). A portion of the proceeds from the event will go to benefit the Tri-County Food Pantry.

What: 7th Annual Charity Craft Beer Outing

• Where: Fox Valley Country Club
• When: August 18
• https://www.murphybrownscraftbeer.com/

Murphy Brown’s Craft Beer Emporium will host the 7th Annual Charity Craft Beer Outing for the Breast Cancer Network of WNY at the Fox Valley Country Club. Cost is $175 per golfer ($75 for dinner only) with a 10 am check-in and 11:30 am shotgun start. The event will feature beverages from Fiddlehead, Jack’s Abby, Wayland Brewing, Downeast Cider and more. There will also be basket raffles, a 50/50 raffle, a silent auction, putting contest and more.

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).

The post From Buffalo to Batavia: 4 Craft Beer Golf Tournaments You Can’t Miss appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Southern Tier Brewing’s Overpack’d to Feature 15 IPAs

The latest version of Southern Tier Brewing’s Overpack’d mixed 15-pack features all IPAs. This time around, the pack features Lake Shore Fog (6.5% Hazy IPA), Smooth Rider (Overpack’d-exclusive, 4.8% Session IPA), IPA (7% IPA), Citra Fog (6% Hazy IPA) and 2XIPA (8.2% Double IPA). “We’re bringing back a long-time favorite and introducing an easy-sipper Session IPA to the new Overpack’d!” the brewery says. “We’ve got a cool new mix of 15 unique beers ranging from 4.8% to 8.0% ABV so there’s something for everyone!” You can find Southern Tier’s new Overpack’d wherever great craft beer is sold.

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 2 undated game tickets (excludes specially-priced games) and 4 craft beer vouchers for $60. 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. You can purchase your Craft Beer Pack here. The Bisons kick off their 2025 season on March 28 against the Rochester Red Wings.

Pizza Plant Transit to Host Imperial March of Stouts

On Sunday, March 9 (12pm), Pizza Plant Transit will host a number of heavy-hitting stouts for their annual Imperial March of Stouts. The event will feature Founders KBS 2019 and 2019 CBS, Mortalis Aphrodite: Chocolate Strawberry (Imperial Milk stout with chocolate and fresh strawberries), Goose Island Bourbon County (2019-2023), Old First Ward Brewing Ten Years After Imperial Stout, Other Half Quiet Space (blend of 24 month aged imperial stout barrels) and 9^th Anniversary Barrel Aged Imperial Stout (collaboration with Homes Brewing), and more. The North Ridge Fanforce will be on hand in full Star Wars costumes. Flights will be available. Anyone who wears Star Wars gear will receive $5 off a flight.

Windy Brew 8^th Anniversary Party

Windy Brew will celebrate their 8^th anniversary on Saturday, March 8 (6pm) in Strykersville. The special event will feature food and drink specials, live music from Savannah Swatland (6-9pm) and the 8 Weeks to 8 Years drawings for prizes such as gift cards, drink chips, mug club memberships, merchandise and more. If you have been involved in the 8 Weeks to 8 Years drawing, winners will be announced throughout the evening and then a grand prize winner will be announced (ask your bartender for details). The event is free and open to the public.

Smoldered Society Tasting at Nickel City Brewz

Nickel City Brewz will welcome in Smoldered Society on March 8 (6-8pm) for their latest Meet the Brewer Night. The Smoldered Society team will be on hand to sample their beer, including Illusion of Society Imperial NEIPA (Bru-One, Mosaic Cryo, Cashmere and Alora hops), Simulated Reality (fruited sour with blueberry and lemon), Strike Anywhere Czech Pilsner and Simulated King (collaboration with Bellwoods, Mountain Dew-inspired sour with kiwi, orange, lime, and citrus soda). Nickel City Brewz will also welcome Meier’s Creek Brewing on Friday night for a sampling event.

OP Shamrock Bar Crawl With Wayland Brewing, First Line Brewing

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day a week early in the Village of Orchard Park with the Shamrock Bar Crawl on March 8 (2-8pm), which includes a number of local venues such as Wayland Brewing, First Line Brewing, Fattey Beer OP, Mangia, Lunar Rei, Cork & Vine, and Byrd House. Each stop will host a unique experience with prizes and giveaways when you get your card stamped at each spot. All participants are encouraged to dress in costumes and wear green. You can visit as many, or as few, venues as you’d like. It is free to participate and the event is open to the public.

Falls Brewery To Open In Town of Niagara March 14

Falls Brewery will officially open their doors at 2408 Military Road in Military Square Plaza in the Town of Niagara on March 14 (11am). Falls Brewery will feature a five-tank brewing system along with a taproom, banquet area and restaurant featuring wood-fired pizzas, wings, bar food and burgers. The night before, on March 13, they will hold a soft opening, 5pm – 9pm, where they plan to demo their golf simulators, mini bowling lanes and other games, including darts, indoor cornhole and more. You can find more information at https://fallsbreweryusa.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, Threads and Untappd (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

The post Buffalo Beer Buzz: New Beers at Southern Tier, Bisons Tickets, Stouts at Pizza Plant, Falls Brewery, Smoldered Society at Nickel City Brewz, Shamrock Crawl, Windy Brew Anniversary appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Big Ditch Extends Inflation Buster Menu to Fall

Big Ditch Brewing has extended their Inflation Buster Menu, which features daily specials at relatively affordable prices into the fall. “Based on the overwhelming response and the positive customer feedback, it’s safe to say that we were successful in doing that,” the brewery said on social media. “Join us and enjoy the same great experience at a great price, all season long.” Monday is $0.75 wings (orders of 10), Tuesday is $10 pizzas, Wednesday is $12 burgers, Thursday is $5 drafts and $10 appetizers, Monday-Friday (11am-3pm) features a $10 sandwich/salad combo, and Sunday is $5 mimosas.

CollaBEERation Festival V Set For April 5, 2025

The date has been set for the fifth annual CollaBEERation Festival – April 5, 2025. Participating venues and ticket information will be announced at a later date. If you don’t know, here’s the premise – the event features craft beer, cider and mead created by members of the Buffalo Beer Geeks community, who team up with over 50 Western New York craft venues to create one-off, small batch creations, many created exclusively for this event. They are involved in every step of the creative process. Festival goers vote for their top collaborations, with the winners taking home the Buffalo Beer Geek Championship Belt.

Mystic Hills Brewing One Year Anniversary Celebration

East Concord’s Mystic Hills Brewing is turning one and they are celebrating the special occasion on Sept. 7. There will be food from Under Fire Pizza (3pm-6pm), live music from with Anthony DeRosa (3pm-6pm), tarot readings with Reborne Healing (2-5pm, 15 min/$25) and beer releases, including their Anniversary SMASH beer, brewed with Nugget hops, as well as an aged Wild Ale Lemon Lime 8 Down and a pilot batch of Tropical Stout. Mystic Hills is located at 10959 Allen Road in East Concord.

Clarksburg Cider Drops New Vanilla Spice Hard Cider

Clarksburg Cider has released a new fall seasonal, Vanilla Spice Hard Cider. The new brew features notes of vanilla, fall spice and crisp apples. “No disrespect to pumpkin spice, but it’s time you made room for one more familiar fall flavor. Our Vanilla Spice Hard Cider blends the warmth of vanilla and spices with our crisp hard cider to add coziness to your home, hayride, or wherever you celebrate the season,” the cidery said. Vanilla Spice Hard Cider is available on draft and in 12oz. 6-pack cans at the taproom and wherever great craft cider is sold.

Western New York Beer Week Returns For 2024

The 2024 Western New York Beer Week, presented at the WNY Brewers Guild, will take place Sept. 19-28. The weeklong event will feature a number of special beer releases, specials and events, which will be announced in the coming weeks. “Our breweries and taprooms have positively impacted our community through job creation, tourism, economic impact, and support for non-profits. Show your support for our local brewers by visiting participating breweries and retailers September 19th – 28th, and remember to ask “What’s Local?” wherever you enjoy craft beer,” the Brewers Guild said. Find more new beers, events, and specials at wnybeerweek.com.

Allen Burger Venture Introduces Beer & Burger Flight

Allentown’s ABV has introduced a new craft beer and burger flight, the Sip & Slider Sampler. On Mondays, they will offer three 3oz. burger sliders paired with three 5oz. drafts of your choosing, all for $25. For the Sip & Slider Sampler you can choose sliders from numbers 1-11 and The Candied Garlic Burger and any three options from their draft beer selection. This promotion is Mondays only and items on burgers cannot be changed or substituted.

Nickel City Brewz 1^st Annual Golf Tournament

Nickel City Brewz will host their first annual golf tournament on Sept. 7 at Elma Meadows Golf Course. The cost to participate is $400 per foursome and features a 4-man scramble, beer on the 1st and 10th tees, closest to the pin and longest drive contests and open bar with burgers, hot dogs and salads at Nickel City Brewz following the event (2-5pm). A portion of proceeds from the event will go to benefit the Tri-County Food Pantry. You can register your team for the event here.

Beer Kind Brewing Now Available in Cans

Beer Kind Brewing’s beer is now available in cans, either in single 16oz. cans or 4-packs. The current selection features American Beam, Naked Pig Brown Ale, Smile Be Hoppy IPA, Your Brain on Hops NEIPA, Patrick, the Pal Pale Ale, Bananakin Hefeweizen, Right in the Kisser Strawberry IPA, Miss Peaches Peach Sour and Salted Watermelon Hard Seltzer. “Since we opened, customers have been asking for to-go options and we want people to be able to take our beers home to enjoy as well,” the brewery said. Plans call for cans to be available at the brewery moving forward.

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: Big Ditch Inflation Buster, CollaBEERation V, Mystic Hills Anniversary, WNY Beer Week, New Clarksburg Cider, ABV Sip & Slider Sampler, Nickel City Golf Tourney, Beer Kind Cans appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Grand Opening of The Meading Room in Hamburg

The Meading Room, a new space located in Hamburg at 106 Evans St. brought to you by Mead People 716, is holding their official ribbon cutting and grand opening celebration Aug. 16 at 4pm. After the ribbon cutting concludes, The Meading Room will be open until 10pm. In addition to a full selection of their own house made meads, The Meading Room also offers dry wine, beer and a and select menu of specialty drinks (Mead-ology). The space features bar seating, table seating and lounge seating, as well as a dartboard and pool table. You can find more information at https://mead-people.com.

Buffalo Craft Invades Rochester’s Flour City Brewers Fest

A number of Buffalo-area breweries and cideries are set to invade the Flour City Brewers Fest in Rochester, including 42 North, Big Ditch, Ellicottville Brewing, Lilly Belle Meads, Hamburg Brewing, Rusty Nickel, Eli Fish, Resurgence, Southern Tier and Thin Man. The event, hosted by Rohrbach Brewing Company, takes place Friday, August 16 at the Rochester Public Market. There will also be food, craft vendors and more. A limited amount of general admission ($55) tickets are still available, which include samplings, tasting glassware and $5 food voucher. For more information, visit https://www.flourcitybrewersfest.com.

42 North Brewing Launches Special Borderland Can

For the fifth year, 42 North has launched a special Borderland IPA can in honor of the Borderland Music & Arts Festival. The new limited edition cans feature artwork by Buffalo artist Ryan Besch, which pay tribute to the annual festival. Each can features a QR code, which can be scanned to enter a giveaway for two VIP weekend festival passes, a 42 North brewery tour for six, $200 in Borderland merch, $150 gift card to 42 North and a special edition of the 2024 Borderland Festival poster. You can find these limited edition cans wherever great craft beer is sold.

Pumking Family Reunion at Southern Tier, USA Today Vote

The Empty Pint at Southern Tier Brewing in Lakewood will host the Pumking Family Reunion on Aug. 24, featuring live music from Polleywood Nights (1-4pm) and Queen Mary (Queen Tribute Band) (6-9pm), along with the annual release of the full Pumking family of beers, including Pumking, Warlock, Caramel Pumking, Rumking and more. The event is free and open to the public. You can also vote for Pumking for Best Fall Seasonal Beer in the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. The beer currently sits at number two overall. You can vote here. Voting runs through early September.

Monthly Beer Club at Mr. Goodbar

Mr. Goodbar on Elmwood Ave. will host their August Beer Club on Aug. 14 at 7:30pm. For $25, you will receiving a curated sampling of 10 beers, including Meier’s Creek Boppin’ Kitty Rice Lager, Schenker Che Si Dice Italian Pilsner, Froth Brewing Unforgiven Wheat Ale, Schenker Dunkelbier, KCBC Yacht Zombie Fruited Sour, Equilibrium MMM…Osa IPA, Drowned Lands Silent Stars IPA, Threes Capacity For Wonder IPA, Fatheads Benjamin Danklin IPA and Allagash Gatherwell Bourbon Barrel Aged Stout. You will also receive food (Buffalo Clam Chowder Fairy Cakes Buffalo cupcakes (Lemon and Devil’s Food). The guys from the Buffalo Beer League will be on hand to host.

Nickel City Brewz Olympic Games

From Aug. 20-24, Nickel City Brewz is hosting their own version of the Olympic Games. Teams of 4-6 will compete in a number of drinking related events, including cornhole, steinholding, cup stacking, can crushing, beer pong, keg curcling and keg rolling. There will even be a closing ceremony. Each team is required to have a minimum of 1 competitor per event, cheering is encouraged and event officials’ decisions are final on all events. You can sign up at the shop with the bartender. Click here for more information.

First Annual NYS Craft Beer Open Golf Tournament

The first annual NYS Craft Beer Open will take place Aug. 26 at Midvale Country Club in Penfield, New York. K2 Brothers Brewing and Mortalis Brewing have come together to host the 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. Proper golf attire is required. You can register 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 Twitter (@buffbeerleague), Instagram (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

The post Buffalo Beer Buzz: The Meading Room, Buffalo Invades Flour City, Pumking Family Reunion, 42 North Borderland Can, Goodbar Beer Club, NYS Craft Beer Open, Nickel City Brewz Olympics appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Tickets on Sale for New York State Craft Brewers Fest

Tickets are on sale now for the New York State Craft Brewers Festival: Buffalo, which returns to Canalside on June 22. This year will feature craft beer from over 50 breweries from across the state, and attendees can meet the people who make the beer while enjoying live music, a food truck rodeo, vendors, and live wrestling by Grapple Pro. New this year is GA+ tickets, which include 1-hour early access, souvenir tasting glass, and $5 merch voucher. You can purchase tickets here. You can also purchase hard copy tickets at Resurgence Brewing, Big Ditch, Wayland Brewing, and Britesmith. $1 per ticket benefits P.U.N.T Pediatric Cancer Collaborative.

One-Eyed Cat Brewing to Celebrate Second Anniversary

Williamsville’s One-Eyed Cat Brewing is turning two years old on June 1 and is celebrating all day long. There will be live music all day long from Whiskey Trick (2-5pm) and Ransom Road (6-9pm), local vendors, BBQ sundaes from Pork Bellies BBQ, a special anniversary beer release, and more. What’s in a BBQ sundae? BBQ beans, potato salad, pulled-pork, coleslaw, brisket, sausage, topped with burnt ends. The family-friendly event is free and open to the public.

Buffalo Beer Geeks Summer Scavenger Hunt Kickoff

On June 27 (5-9pm) at Nickel City Brewz, the Buffalo Beer Geeks will hold the official launch party for their 4^th annual Scavenger Hunt. The event will feature a quadruple tap takeover from Strangebird Beer, Noble Shephard Craft Brewery, Old First Ward Brewing and Buffalo Brewing Company, who brewed a special collaboration for the event. Music will be provided by Mike West, there will be food available from Molly’s Wood Fired Pizza, and more. You can currently sign up for the hunt via the BBG Facebook group. Prizes for the Scavenger Hunt will be announced soon.

Hamburg Brewing Creates Beer for Village Anniversary

The Village of Hamburg is turning 150 years old and Hamburg brewing has created a special beer to commemorate the achievement. The beer, called ‘1874,’ is modeled after the original recipe for White Corner Wheat, the first beer ever brewed at Hamburg Brewing. 1874 American Wheat Ale is a 5.3% clean and simple Wheat Ale, named after White’s Corners, which is now known as Main and Buffalo Streets. It’s brewed with Pilsner and Wheat malts and Herkules, Perle and Citra hops. The beer will be available on draft and in 12oz. 6-pack cans for $10.99 and $39.99 for a case.

The Nickel Plate at the Niagara Food Terminal Grand Opening

The Nickel Plate, an artisan market featuring more than 120 vendors offering all locally made and produced products, as well as a restaurant and bar, located inside the Niagara Frontier Food Terminal, will hold their grand opening on May 18. This weekend, draft beers will be $1 off, and every 10th person through the door gets a $10 gift card. They offer all 10 rotating taps of NYS beer, wine, cider, seltzer, and mead from 42 North Brewing, Community Beer Works, 12 Gates Brewing, Belt Line, Big Ditch, Buffalo Brewing, Eli Fish, Clarksburg Cider, Ellicottville Brewing, Flying Bison, Four Mile, Froth, and more (beer menus here). Visit https://www.tnpbuffalo.com/.

Erie County Pints in the Park Returns with Resurgence & 42 North

Resurgence Brewing and 42 North Brewing will once again take part in the Erie County Parks Department Pints in the Park Program, which features pop-up beer gardens across the Erie County Park System throughout the summer and fall. The 2024 program includes stops at Chestnut Ridge (June 7, 4-9pm, June 8, 12-9pm, July 26, 4-9pm, July 27, 12-9pm), Ellicott Creek (June 14, 4-9pm, June 15, 12-9pm), Como Lake (June 21, 4-9pm, June 22, 12-9pm) and Emery Park (August 17, 12-9pm). Learn more by visiting  https://www3.erie.gov/parks/events.

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: NYS Craft Brewers Festival, One-Eyed Cat Anniversary, The Nickel Plate Grand Opening, BBG Scavenger Hunt Kickoff, New Hamburg Beer, Pints in the Park appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Resurgence Brewing Expanding to Canalside

Resurgence Brewing is taking their talents to the waterfront as they plan to take over concessions at the former Clinton’s Dish at Canalside. The new space will feature an expanded food and drink menu, one similar to what the brewery offered in Delaware Park the past years at their Resurgence in the Park location, which will not open this year as Resurgence sets their focus on Canalside. In addition to Resurgence craft beer, Blackbird Cider and canned cocktails will be available. Tentative plans call for the new space to open in early May with limited hours, with plans to expand to seven days a week from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.

Don’t Call It A Comeback at Southern Tier Brewing

If you’ve been missing any retired Southern Tier Brewing beer, make sure you’re in attendance at The Empty Pint in Lakewood as they open up their beer vault for Don’t Call It A Comeback on April 27 (11am). They will be tapping rare releases and forgotten favorites for a one-day-only celebration of epic beers, including Unearthly Imperial IPA, Steve Farmhouse Ale, Tripel, 2xIPA, Pale (OG version), Krampus Helles Lager, Porter, Phin & Matt’s Extraordinary Ale and Razz Wheat. There will also be live music from The Derek Davis Trio (5-8pm).

Nickel City Brewz Hosting First Ever Meadfest

On May 25, the best of the best in local mead will descend upon Depew as Nickel City Brewz hosts the first ever Meadfest (3pm). The event will feature meads from Lilly Belle Meads, Queen City Meadery, Bee Spit Meadery, Wildflower Beverages, Three Bear Meadery and Illumination Meadery. Each will be pouring samples of their products and bottles and cans of the products will be available for purchase, along with crowlers of draft mead. Stay tuned to the event page for more information.

Cabin Fever, Beer & Wine Festival at Buffalo Ski Center

The 7th annual Cabin Fever, Beer and Wine Festival returns to the Buffalo Ski Center/Tamarack Lodge in Colden on April 27 (4pm). Tickets for the event are $40 presale ($50 day of) and include tastings from local and national breweries, wineries, and distilleries, including Rusty Nickel Brewing, Thin Man, Resurgence Brewing, Hamburg Brewing, 12 Gates, Big Ditch, Spotted Octopus, Johnson’s Landing, Mystic Hills, Bee Spit Meadery, 42 North, Southern Tier, Community Beer Works, and more, a free commemorative tasting glass, live music, door prizes, raffles, auction items, and more. There will also be food available. You can purchase tickets here.

Tickets Remain for Thawfest at Buffalo Riverworks

A limited amount of tickets are still available for Thawfest, Buffalo Riverworks’ annual celebration of all things spring, April 26 (6pm). Participating craft vendors include 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.

5 Year Anniversary Party at Belt Line Brewery

Belt Line Brewery is celebrating their fifth anniversary all day long on April 27 (12pm) with BBQ food specials, free cupcakes for patrons while supplies last, the release of Blueberry Spring, a heavily fruited sour ale, a tapping of an exclusive Double Brunch fruited sour ale variant, and more. Blueberry Spring is tart and refreshing, with notes of blueberries, lemon, and lavender. Stay tuned to their events page for more details.

Hofbrauhaus to Tap Krystalweizen on May 2

Hofbrauhaus is tapping their new Krystalweizen, a German style filtered wheat ale, on May 2 (6pm). Similar to a traditional hefeweizen, Krystalweizen is 5.7% and features aromas of bubblegum and banana, with notes of wheat, clove and spice. Die Haus Band will provide live music for the beer tapping. For reservations, please visit www.hofbrauhausbuffalo.com or call (716) 939-BEER (2337).

Big Ditch Brewing to Release Sport Jorts Double IPA

On April 26, Big Ditch Brewing will release Sport Jorts, a new Double IPA brewed using two experimental hops (HBC 586 & HBC 1019). This 8.3% DIPA features notes of tropical fruit, citrus, stone fruit and hops. Sport Jorts DIPA will be available on draft and 16oz. 4-pack cans at the taproom Friday, and wherever great craft beer is sold the following week. It will also be available online for shipping across New York and Pennsylvania.

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: Resurgence at Canalside, Southern Tier Comeback, New Beer at Big Ditch & Hofbrauhaus, Meadfest, Thawfest, Cabin Fever, Beer & Wine Fest, Belt Line Anniversary appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

On May 25, the best of the best in local mead will descend upon Depew as Nickel City Brewz hosts the first ever Meadfest (3pm).

The event will feature meads from Lilly Belle Meads, Queen City Meadery, Bee Spit Meadery, Wildflower Beverages, Three Bear Meadery and Illumination Meadery. Each will be pouring samples of their products and bottles and cans of the products will be available for purchase, along with crowlers of draft mead.

If you’re new to mead, its production is relatively simple, with three main ingredients: honey, water, and yeast, which are then fermented together. It can be crafted to suit a variety of tastes, from bone-dry and crisp to sweet and dessert-like. Additionally, the use of local honey, fruits, and spices allows for a connection to regional flavors and traditions.

There’s Traditional Mead, made solely from honey, water, and yeast, Metheglin (mead infused with herbs and spices), Melomel (mead that incorporates fruit), Cyser (made by fermenting a mixture of honey and apple juice or cider), and Pyment (a blend of mead and grape juice or wine).

Stay tuned to the event page 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 (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

The post Nickel City Brewz Hosting First Ever Meadfest appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Featured Guest

Brian Campbell

Buffalo Beer League

We’re going through Brian Campbell’s Buffalo Beer Buzz found on StepOutBuffalo.com and BuffaloBeerLeague.com. We discuss:

• 12 Gates Brewing to Open New Taproom in Ellicottville
• 12 Gates New Fruited Sour Release
• Watch the Bills-Rams Season Opener at These Fine Establishments
• Hamburg Brewing to Throw 9th Anniversary Party
• Eli Fish Brewing to Hold 4th Annual Oktoberfest in Batavia
• Nickel City Brewz Cask Event with Resurgence, Buffalo Barrel Project

 

To see The Buffalo Beer Buzz every week, check out StepOutBuffalo.com or BuffaloBeerLeague.com

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