Pizza Plant Presents Annual Tim’s Beer Show Tasting Event

The man who helped usher in the modern day craft beer movement in Western New York, Buffalo beer’s godfather and Flying Bison Brewing brainchild, Tim Herzog, will once again host New York’s longest running beer event, Tim’s Beer Show, at Pizza Plant Transit on Oct. 22 (7pm). The curated tasting experience features Herzog hosting a unique journey through beer, from light to dark to extreme as you sample, discuss and learn. Tickets are $50 and include a tasting glass, Pizza Plant breadsticks and 12 4oz. beer samples. Tickets can be purchased at Pizza Plant.

Tap & Craft Festival Comes to Riverworks This Weekend

The Tap & Craft Festival is coming to Buffalo Riverworks this weekend on Saturday, October 4, featuring more than 30 craft breweries, cideries, wineries and distilleries. There will also be live music from Buffalo Dead Alliance. Tickets still remain – VIP ($45 pre-sale only) includes a tasting glass, four hours of sampling, VIP-only tastings, pretzel necklace, and more. General admission ($35 pre-sale, $50 day of) includes a tasting glass and sampling. Designated Driver tickets are also available for $10. You can purchase tickets at tapandcraft.com. There will be a limited amount of tickets available at the door day-of.

And if you’re still thirsty after the festival concludes, the official after party takes place at BriarBrothers Brewing. Your festival wristband gets you $6 draft pours.

Hofbrauhaus Buffalo to Release Festbier

Hofbrauhaus will tap their Festbier on Oct. 2 (6 pm) with a ceremonial keg tapping parade led by special barrel tappers The Mafia Babes. The event will benefit the P.U.N.T. Pediatric Cancer Collaborative with live music, raffles for prizes such as signed Josh Allen and Dawson Knox memorabilia, Hofbräuhaus Stein Club Memberships and more, craft vendors including Threaded & Laced, Buffalo Braid Co., Charmed at the Bar, and more. Hofbrauhaus’ Festbier closely resembles the Americanized version of Oktoberfestbiers with notes of toasted bread, caramel and fruit, and, according to the brewery, pairs well with rich foot such as pork and sweet desserts like apfel stuedel. For reservations, visit www.hofbrauhausbuffalo.com.

Buffalo Brewing Company Beer Sale

Buffalo Brewing Company is blowing out their beer inventory, both in cans and on draft, at their Myrtle Avenue taproom, with a huge beer sale this week. All draft beer is buy-one-get-one free this week and cans, both 16oz. 4-packs and 12oz. 6-packs, are $9.99, including Manru Lager, Sunday Sauce Cream Ale, 1976 Grodziskie, Refined Simplicity Czech Dark Lager, Pineapple Cream Ale, 1825 NEIPA, Blanc Kolsch, All Shored Up Cream Ale, 1789 ESB and Golden Snowbeer. The sale will run as long as supplies last.

Oktoberfest Celebrations in Full Swing This Weekend

This weekend is big one for Oktoberfest celebrations and parties all across Western New York. Oktoberfest at Steel Leaf Brewing (October 3-5) features the launch of their Festbier, German-inspired food specials, seasonal beers, contests, giveaways, games, stein-holding competitions  and more. Beer Kind Brewing Kindtoberfest (October 4) features new beer releases, food from Happy Tacos, cider donuts, kids’ activities, festive movies and more. At Oktoberfest at Gowanda Brewing (October 4), there will German beer such as Festbier, Oktoberfest, Schwartzbier and Pumpkin Ale, German food specials and live music, stein-hoisting competition, chicken dance contest and more. Woodcock Brothers’ annual Cocktoberfest (October 4, North Tonawanda) features German music, authentic German food, beer specials, and more. JL Fest 2025 at Johnson’s Landing is a two-day fall festival (October 3-4) filled with live music from Nineties By Nature, Crush Crush Crush and Hazzard County Band, food, vendors, photo booths, multiple bars, VIP section, axe throwing, mini petting zoo and more. Prost!

Hamburg Brewing to Release Special Stout Mix Pack

Colder weather is on the horizon and Hamburg Brewing is getting everyone ready with the release of a special mixed stout pack on October 8 (6-9 pm). The Nitro Stout Six Mix includes two cans each of Nitro OMS (oatmeal milk stout), Espresso Martini (milk stout with espresso) and S’Mores Stout (stout with marshmallow and graham cracker). There will be beer samplings, 6-packs available to go, live music from Maui Jim (7 pm), food specials and more. The release party 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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Hofbrauhaus Buffalo to Celebrate Five Year Anniversary

It’s been half a decade of all-things German beer, food and music at Hofbrauhaus Buffalo, and the brewery will celebrate the special milestone on Sunday, September 21 (4-7 pm). The party will feature live music from Die Haus Band, $10 Bavarian Buffet (pre-purchase here, free for Stein Club members and investors), all-ages Bavarian Bingo: PROST edition (5 pm), and plenty of authentic German beer and food to go around. Reservations are required and can be made here.

Pumkingfest 2025 Returns to Southern Tier Buffalo

Southern Tier Brewing Buffalo will celebrate Pumkingfest 2025 all day on September 20, starting at 11 am. There will be a number of specials during the event including a shot and beer combo (12oz. Pumking and shot of Pumking whiskey), Pumking flight, Pumking cocktails, games upstairs such as cornhole, giant Jenga and more, limited edition Pumking merchandise, giveaways, three ‘legendary’ Pumking releases and two variants and more. The event is free and open to the

3^rd Annual Oktoberfest at Wayland Brewing

Oktoberfest is coming to Wayland Brewing, September 19-21. All weekend long, beer steins are $30 (includes first fill) and $12 additional fills of Oktoberfest, Waylander and Especial. There will be live music by Frankturers (7-9 pm) Friday and a Stein Holding Contest, Pugtoberfest, face painting and live music by The Polka Boys: Die Haus Duo (6-9 pm) Saturday and an Artisan Market in Wayland Hall, Stein Holding Contest, axe throwing by Hachet & Hops, face painting and live music by VOYGR (2-4 pm) on Sunday. There will also be food specials. The event is free and open to the public.

Breweries Announced for Fourth Annual Tap & Craft Festival

Breweries have been announced for the fourth annual Tap & Craft Festival, Saturday, Oct. 4 at Buffalo Riverworks. Set to pour at the festival are Other Half, BriarBrothers, Brewery Ardennes, Mortalis, Eli Fish, Imprint Beer, Heavy Reel, Urban Artifact, Trillium, Drekker, Dancing Gnome, Resident Culture, Maine Beer, Strangebird, Rising Storm, The Drowned Lands, Evil Twin, Brazen, Spotted Octopus, Pearl Street and more. There will also be live music from Buffalo Dead Alliance. VIP tickets ($45, pre-sale only) include tasting glass, four hours of sampling, VIP-only tastings, pretzel necklace and more, and General Admission ($35, pre-sale, $50, day of) include tasting glass and samplings. Designated Driver tickets are available for $10. You can purchase tickets here.

Dude’s Homebrew Competition at Resurgence Brewing

The 11^th annual Dude’s Homebrew Competition, which raises money every year for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, will take place September 21 (12-3pm) at Resurgence Brewing. Homebrewers will serve samples of their beer to attendees, who will vote for their favorite beer, which will be judged by a panel of local brewers. For a $30 donation to blood cancer research, you can taste dozens of homebrewed beers and receive a free tasting glass. To purchase tickets, and to get more information, click here.

Big Ditch Tap Takeover at Nickel City Cigars

Big Ditch Brewing is taking their talents to Nickel City Cigars for a special tap takeover on Friday, September 19 (7-10 pm). There will be a meet & greet with Kate from Big Ditch, flight and pint specials on Big Ditch beers, raffles, free food , giveaways, including complimentary Big Ditch pint glasses, cigar deals, cigar/beer pairing menu, DJWho (9 pm-midnight) and more. The event is free for Nickel City Club members and $5 for non-members. Nickel City Cigars is located at 284 Franklin Street in Buffalo. You can find more information here.

Fattey Beer Co. Opens New Amherst Location

Fattey Beer Co. has opened a new location in Amherst, located at 1260 Sweet Home Road. The 2,200 square foot space, located in a building that also houses John Shaflucas Architects, features Fattey’s signature craft beer bar and bottle shop, as well as an outdoor patio. The new site is dog-friendly, and features a small food menu, including their signature chicken sandwiches and a new cheeseburger. Fattey Beer Amherst is open daily; 12-10:30 pm. Fattey Beer also operates locations in Buffalo, Hamburg, Kenmore, Lancaster, Orchard Park, Westerville, Ohio, Rochester, and North Tonawanda. You can find more information at https://fatteybeer.com.

Fall Tasting Event at Bev Depot

Bev Depot in Cheektowaga is hosting a Fall Tasting event on September 20 (12-3 pm). The event will feature samplings from Mortalis, Big Ditch, Hofbrauhaus, Thin Man, Eli Fish, 42 North and more. There will also be hard seltzers, malt beverages, non-alcoholic options and more. Bev Depot is located at 2190 Walden Avenue and features more than 2,000 SKUs of beer, including a large selection of local options and a create-your-own 4-pack section. Bev Depot also offers some food options, mixers and soda. Bev Depot is open Monday – Sunday, 9 am – 10 pm.

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 fourth annual festival has something for every drinker. There will be craft beer available from West Kill Brewing, Other Half Brewing, Talking Cursive Brewing, BriarBrothers Brewing, Brewery Ardennes, Nomxd Brew, Mortalis Brewing, Eli Fish, Imprint Beer, Heavy Reel Brewing, Urban Artifact, Trillium Brewing, Drekker Brewing, Dancing Gnome, Resident Culture Brewing, Maine Beer, Strangebird, Rising Storm Brewing, The Drowned Lands, Evil Twin Brewing, Brazen, Spotted Octopus, Pearl Street Brewing and more.

There will also be cider from Tree Hugger Cider, wine from Vieni Estates, spirits from Hartman’s Distilling, Shankys Whip and Lock One Distilling, canned cocktails from Lake Hour and Long Drink and mead from The Bull and Bee Meadery.

There will also be live music from Buffalo Dead Alliance (3-6:30 pm).

VIP tickets ($45, pre-sale only), include a tasting glass, four hours of sampling, VIP-only tastings, a pretzel necklace, a Lock Tender sticker, and more, and General admission tickets ($35 pre-sale, $50 day of) include a tasting glass and sampling. Designated Driver tickets are also available for $10.

Paper tickets can be purchased, without fees, at the Lock Tender in Lockport until October 3.

You can purchase tickets and find more information 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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Seneca Beer & Wine Festival Coming to Seneca Square in July

Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino is partnering with the Niagara Food & Wine Festival to host the Seneca Beer & Wine Festival on July 26 (12-6 pm) and 27 (12-4 pm) in Seneca Square, outside of the resort’s 4th Street entrance. The event will feature beer tastings from dozens of local, regional and national brewers, local wines, live music, food trucks, backyard games and more. Tickets are $40 pre-sale (includes 15 tastings) and day of ($45), VIP tickets are $55 (includes 15 tastings, swag bag and $10 in dining credit at Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino). DD tickets are also available ($35, includes $20 in Free Slot Play). Tickets are available at SenecaNiagaraCasino.com or Ticketmaster.com.

Tap & Craft Festival Moves To Buffalo Riverworks

This year’s Tap & Craft Festival will take place on Oct. 4 at Buffalo Riverworks featuring more than 30 craft breweries, cideries, wineries and distilleries. There will also be live music from Buffalo Dead Alliance. Tickets are on sale now – VIP ($45 pre-sale only), which includes a tasting glass, four hours of sampling, VIP-only tastings, a pretzel necklace, a Lock Tender sticker, and more. General admission ($35 pre-sale, $48 day of) includes a tasting glass and sampling. Designated Driver tickets are also available for $10. A tentative pour list will be released on August 1 at tapandcraft.com. You can purchase tickets here.

Ellicottville Brewing Releases Non-Alcoholic Blueberry Wheat

Ellicottville Brewing is the latest local brewery to jump on board the non-alcoholic train with the release of NA Blueberry Wheat, a non-alcoholic version of their flagship brew. This new version is light and refreshing with blueberry flavors, just minus the alcohol. “Skip the booze, not the flavor,” EBC said. “Our NA Blueberry Wheat is as clean as it is crisp.” NA Blueberry Wheat is now available in cans.

Wings & Beers Special Weekend at Belt Line Brewery

From Friday, July 11 at noon through Sunday, July 13, Belt Line Kitchen & Brewery is hosting a “taste of” weekend featuring wings and beer specials. For $25 you will receive four 7oz. pours of Belt Line ‘s craft beer and a 10-wing flight of their most popular wing flavors (Saucey Boy, 716 Medium, All Dressed). This special is only available this weekend in the taproom.

Clarksburg Cider Sale, New Summer Release

Stock up on cider at Clarksburg Cider’s summer sale on July 18 (3-6 pm) in Clarksburg’s parking lot, 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, free tin tackers or pennant with purchase of any case of cider and 10% off all non-sale items.

Clarksburg has also released a new summer cider, Clarksburg Lemongrass Rosé Hard Cider. This new summer seasonal features a crisp apple base with Isabella grapes and lemongrass with a semi-sweet finish. You can find Lemongrass Rose Hard Cider wherever great craft cider is sold, as well as online at https://clarksburgcider.com/shop.

Halfway to Cask Fest at Mr. Goodbar

We are officially halfway through the year, which means we are officially halfway to Mr. Goodbar’s annual Cask Fest, which takes place in December. And Goodbar is rolling out the casks to celebrate! On July 19 (3 pm), Mr. Goodbar’s Halfway to Cask Fest event will feature casks from Brickyard Brewing, Flying Bison Brewing, Old First Ward / Gene McCarthy’s, Pressure Drop Brewing and Wayland Brewing. A complete beer list will be released soon. The event is free and open to the public – cask beer can be purchased by the pour. Casks will be available all weekend while supplies last.

WNY Brewers Guild Annual Charity Golf Tournament

The WNY Brewers Guild Charity Golf Tournament returns Aug. 25 at Chestnut Hill Country Club, 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. Register at www.WNYBrewersGuild.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 X (@buffbeerleague), Instagram, Threads and Untappd (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

The post Buffalo Beer Buzz: Seneca Beer & Wine Fest, Tap & Craft, Belt Line Wing Special, Brewers Guild Golf Tournament, Halfway to Cask Fest, EBC NA Blueberry Wheat, Clarksburg Sale, New Cider appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Pressure Drop, Ellicottville Brewing Announce New Partnership

After closing their Elmwood Avenue taproom, along with their brew house at the Barrel Factory in the Old First Ward, Pressure Drop Brewing has entered into a new partnership with Ellicottville Brewing. According to EBC’s Head of Brewery Operations Dan Minner, both breweries have been working on recipe formulation and procuring ingredients Pressure Drop was using in the Old First Ward. They also sourced different grains, brought in new yeast strains, and altered operating procedures “to be faithful to Pressure Drop’s process.” As a result of the partnership, Pressure Drop beers will continue to be available at select retailers throughout Western New York.

Mortalis Brewing Buffalo First Anniversary Party

Mortalis Brewing Buffalo is turning one and are celebrating that fact on Oct. 5. The event will feature live music, specialty exclusive draft options including a selection of Mortalis barrel aged beers, specialty beer flights, and draft specials all day long. The event kicks off at 3pm and is free and open to the public. Mortalis Brewing Buffalo is located at 1250 Niagara St.

Breweries Announced for Third Annual Tap & Craft Festival

The third annual Tap & Craft Festival, coming to the Niagara Falls Convention Center on Oct. 5, will feature craft brews from more than 40 craft breweries, wineries and cideries, including Mortalis, Other Half, Trillium, Frequentem, Brewery Ardennes, Beer Tree, Prison City, BriarBrothers, Wild East, Blood Brothers, Eli Fish, Mystic Hills, Big Ditch, Resurgence, Community Beer Works and more. There will also be live music from The Far Trio, artisan market, food and more. Tickets are $35 and include admission, commemorative tasting glass and unlimited samples. VIP tickets include a special release from Mortalis Brewing, curated beverage selections and more. Purchase tickets at www.tapandcraft.com.

Woodcock Brothers Cocktoberfest Returns Oct. 5

This year’s Woodcock Brothers Brewing Cocktoberfest will be held at The Wurlitzer Building in North Tonawanda on Oct. 5. There will be authentic German food specials, live German music, the release of Woodcock’s Cocktoberfest Lager on draft and in 16oz. 4-pack cans, several other house beers and a few special seasonal beers on draft as well. Dress up in your finest Lederhosen or German garb for the event, which is free and open to the public. Cocktoberfest kicks off at 12pm.

Pizza Plant Presents Annual Tim’s Beer Show Tasting Event

Buffalo Beer Godfather Tim Herzog will once again host New York’s longest running beer event, Tim’s Beer Show, at Pizza Plant Transit on Oct. 16 (7pm). The curated tasting experience features Herzog hosting a unique journey through beer, from light to dark to extreme as you sample, discuss and learn about beer.  Tickets are $50 and include a tasting glass to keep, Pizza Plant breadsticks and 12 4oz. beer samples. Tickets can be purchased at Pizza Plant and at Eventbrite.

Big Ditch, YMCA Buffalo Niagara Team on Turkey Trot Beer

For the third straight year, Big Ditch Brewing has partnered with the YMCA on Turkey Trotter, a beer brewed to celebrate the annual Buffalo Turkey Trot race. Turkey Trotter is a blonde ale that features crackery malt and light, hoppy fruit notes. The beer will be available Oct. 3 on draft or to-go in 6-packs 12oz. cans at Big Ditch’s taproom and wherever great craft beer is sold. Turkey Trotter beer cans will also contain a QR code which can be scanned to register for the race. Registration for the YMCA Buffalo Turkey Trot is open and available at www.ymcaturkeytrot.org.

New this year is a contest, “SIP, SIP, HOORAY! IT’S A TURKEY TROTTER GIVEAWAY,” which features six stickers attached to the underside of Turkey Trotter 6-pack rings. The winning 6-packs will be distributed throughout the Western New York area. Winning stickers will receive one free Turkey Trot entry. Full details can be found at www.bigditchbrewing.com/turkeytrottergiveaway.

Hofbrauhaus Buffalo to Release Festbier

Hofbrauhaus will tap their Festbier on Oct. 3 with a ceremonial keg tapping parade and live music from Hops & Schnapps at 6pm. All guests will receive a complimentary pour of the beer. Hofbrauhaus’ Festbier closely resembles the Americanized version of Oktoberfestbiers with notes of toasted bread, caramel and fruit, and, according to the brewery, pairs well with rich foot such as pork and sweet desserts likes apfel stuedel. For reservations, call (716) 939-BEER (2337) or visit www.hofbrauhausbuffalo.com.

Cider Week New York 2024 Starts This Weekend

Cider Week New York takes place Oct. 5-13 and features tastings, tours and exclusive events throughout New York State at cideries, restaurants and bottle shops. Whether you’re looking for chef-curated cider pairings, orchard tours, cider festivals, or cider-based cocktails, there’s something for everyone during Cider Week New York. Visit www.ciderweeknewyork.com to view a full interactive calendar of events and updates. Cider Week New York has been celebrated for over 10 years and is produced by the New York Cider Association.

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: EBC x Pressure Drop Partnership, New Beers at Hofbrauhaus & Big Ditch, Tap & Craft Fest, Mortalis Buffalo Anniversary, Tim’s Beer Show, Cider Week, Cocktoberfest appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Tickets on Sale for Third Annual Tap & Craft Festival

The third annual Tap & Craft Festival, coming to the Niagara Falls Convention Center on Oct. 5, will feature craft brews from more than 40 craft breweries, wineries and cideries from Upstate New York, live music from The Far Trio, artisan market, food and more. Tickets are $35 and include admission, commemorative tasting glass and unlimited samples. Designated Driver tickets are $10. VIP tickets include a special release from Mortalis Brewing, exclusive beverage selections curated by Brewed & Bottled, Magic Bear Beer Cellar, The Lock Tender, One Stop Brew Shop and Alchemy Wine & Beer and more. Purchase tickets at www.tapandcraft.com.

Pressure Drop Brewing to Close Elmwood Avenue Taproom

Pressure Drop has announced that their taproom located at 1672 Elmwood Avenue will close at the end of the month. Their last day open will be Sunday, Sept. 29. The announcement was made on their social media channels. While no further details were announced, the brewery said that their beer will still be available at select retailers, beer stores, bottle shops, bars and restaurants around Western New York. Their beer also sees distribution in Rochester, Syracuse and Eastern Pennsylvania. Pressure Drop opened the location in March of 2022. The brewery announced in July of 2023 that they were for sale.

WNY Beer Week Returns Sept. 19-28

The 2024 Western New York Beer Week, presented by the WNY Brewers Guild, will take place Sept. 19-28. Things will get underway on Sept. 19 with an Opening Reception at Resurgence Brewing, then from there, featured events include Buffalo Beer Goddesses 12th Anniversary Party at Mr. Goodbar (Sept. 19), Brewer’s Cornhole Tournament at The Ridge West Seneca (Sept. 22), Nickel City BrewZ Cornhole Tournament hosted by Buffalo Beer Geeks (Sept. 24), WNY Real Beer Expo at Flying Bison (Sept. 27), Brewer’s Bottle Share at Magic Bear Beer Cellar (Sept. 27) and WNY Wet Hop Festival at Rusty Nickel (Sept. 28). Find more at wnybeerweek.com.

Lockport Brewpub Shuffle Becomes Twisted Locks Brewing

Lockport Brewpub Shuffle, a project at 13 W. Main St. in Lockport first proposed in 2021, will now continue under the name Twisted Locks Brewing. The proposed project from brothers CJ and Matt Martin will see the 22,490-square-foot former Kendzie’s Lanes building converted into a ground floor entertainment space, which will feature four regulation-size shuffleboards, bocce courts and cornhole boards, a microbrewery featuring a seven-barrel craft brewing system expected to be installed by November and restaurant, along with four apartments on the upper floors. The Martins bought the building in 2022.

Oktoberfest Celebrations in Full Swing This Weekend

It’s Oktoberfest season and there are plenty of venues celebrating the season, which traditionally runs Sept. 17 through Oct. 3. Wayland Brewing’s second annual Oktoberfest (Sept. 20-22) will feature stein specials, live music from Invisible Touch, German food, ax throwing and more, Rationales will host DEADtoberfest with WNY Dead (Sept. 21), Mystic Hills Brewing will host Oktoberfest (Sept. 21) featuring spent grain pretzels, stein holding competition and German beer flight specials, Pumkingfest at Southern Tier Brewing Buffalo (Sept. 21) will features live music from Interstate Daydream and Tiny Music, exclusive merch and a Pumkingfest Taste Off with Chai Pumking, Maple Pumking and Pecan Pumking (vote for your favorite) and live music (1pm, 5:30pm, 9pm) and a special beer tapping (6pm) at Hofbrauhaus Buffalo. Resurgence’s Oktoberfest (Sept. 21) will feature live music from the Polka Boys Band, stein hoisting & pretzel eating contests, beer samplings, German food and beer specials, and more.

Brickyard Brewing to Release Pair of New Lagers

On Sept. 20, Brickyard Brewing will release a pair of new lagers, Dusk Amber Lager and Dawn Pale Lager. Dawn is an unfiltered Czech Pale Lager brewed with SAAZ Shine hops for notes of citrus and lightly toasted malt and Dusk is a Czech Amber Lager, which features a soft mouthfeel, light roast, toasted nuts and dark fruits. Both beers are available on draft and in 4-pack cans to go. Both cans feature special, limited edition mirrored labels.

Seneca Brewtopia Beer Festival at Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino

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

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: Tap & Craft Fest, Seneca Brewtopia Beer Fest, Oktoberfest, Pressure Drop Elmwood to Close, Twisted Locks Brewing, WNY Beer Week, Brickyard Lagers appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Spring into Summer at Clarksburg Cider

Clarksburg Cider is celebrating the arrival of warmer weather here in Western New York at their Spring into Summer event on May 4 (12pm). The free event will feature their summer BBQ menu, hours cider raffles, pig roast, drink specials, tastings of their new summer seasonal cider, live music by Grizzwoode (3-6pm) and lawn games at the cidery. While the event is free, if you RSVP for the event here, you will be entered to win a prize pack that includes a case of cider, $50 gift card to the Tap Room, and a Clarksburg T-shirt.

‘Full Circle Festival’ Returns to 42 North Brewing on May 18

Full Circle Festival returns to 42 North Brewing in East Aurora on May 18. This year’s festival, which is supported by Taste NY’s Western NY Welcome Center, will be a free event that showcases a variety of New York state produced beverages. 42 North Brewing will be joined by Taste NY Welcome Center, Cornell Cooperative, Cole Road Farms, Wildflower Meadery, Spotted Octopus Brewing, Mystic Hills Brewery, Johnson Estates Winery, Koestner Farms, Clarksburg Cider, Lilly Belle Meads, 1911 Established, and more, who will be on hand showcasing and educating attendees on their products.  Brothers Blue will perform in the beer garden.

May the Fourth Be With You at 12 Gates Brewing

This year, be cautious because you will never find a more wretched hive of scum and villainy than at 12 Gates Brewing as the brewery transforms the taproom into Mos Eisley Cantina on May 4 (12pm) for their annual celebration of a galaxy far, far away. There will be drink specials, special cocktails such as Blue Milk, Millennium Falcon Mule and Wookie Whiskey Sour, the release of Yoda Lager, live music from Last Call (5pm), and a Star Wars costume contest with gift certificate prizes (1st $100, 2nd $50, 3rd $25). The event is free and open to the public.

Resurgence Brewing 10^th Anniversary Party This June

Resurgence Brewing is marking a decade in the local craft beer scene with a big blowout on June 29 (12pm). The all-day extravaganza will feature food such as clams and a pig roast, the re-release of throwback Resurgence beers, the release of their new Anniversary IPA, merch deals, raffles and giveaways, live music, mechanical chicken wing, 360 photo booth, retro beer pricing, and more. The event is free and open to the public.

Fall Tap & Craft Festival at Niagara Falls Convention Center

The Tap & Craft Festival returns to the Niagara Falls Convention Center this year on October 5 (4pm). VIP tickets are $45 and include early access (3pm), unlimited samples from more than 40 breweries, cideries and distilleries, commemorative glass, $15 free slot play credit from Seneca Niagara Casino, live music by The Far Trio, artisan market, local food, a special release from Mortalis Brewing and selections curated by Brewed & Bottled, Magic Bear Beer Cellar, Selections, One Stop Brew Shop and Alchemy Wine & Beer. General admission tickets are $35. Designated Driver tickets are $10. You can purchase tickets here.

Big Ditch Brewing is Turning 9!

For their ninth anniversary, Big Ditch is hosting a beer and food tasting experience from around the world on May 16 (5pm). The event will feature beer and small plates inspired by 5 different countries, including Japan (Yuzu Rice Lager), Venezuela (Roasted Plantain Brown Ale), India (Mango Pastry Sour), Jamaica (Tropical Stout), and Germany (Dunkelweiss). Stamp your taproom passport to be entered to win the grand prize – a custom YETI cooler. There will also be raffles every 30 minutes (each special food item or beer ordered earns raffle tickets), free anniversary shirts for the first (75) attendees, free birthday cupcakes for all attendees, and live music from Gravy. This is a free event.

One Year Anniversary Party at Buffalo Olde Brewery

Lovejoy’s Buffalo Olde Brewery is already one year old and will be blowing out the candles on May 4 (12pm). Their anniversary party will feature brunch for $25, bottomless mimosas until 3pm, featured shot deals starting at 4pm, BOGO beer specials all day long, balloon artists and face painters (12-4pm), and live music courtesy of The Bleeding Hearts Band (7-10pm). The event is free and open to the public. Call 716-464-3018 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).

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The Tap & Craft Festival is back for its second annual festival at the Niagara Falls Convention Center on Saturday, October 21. The event will feature over 40 craft brands, 35 local vendors and the live music of The Far Trio.

The Tap & Craft Festival is supported by Cornerstone CFCU (Glass Sponsor) and Presenting Sponsors Niagara Falls National Heritage Area, Niagara Hiking Company, Sheraton Niagara Falls USA, Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino, Niagara Falls Convention Center, Niagara Falls Firefighters Local 714, Timothy J. Hennessy, PLLC and LiveNF.

“At Cornerstone Community FCU, we believe in the power of community and the importance of supporting local businesses and events that bring us all together. The Tap & Craft Festival is a great representation of our community’s spirit, and we are delighted to be part of it,” Eric Hepkins, CEO, Cornerstone Community FCU, said.

Brewed & Bottled Craft Beer Shop and Magic Bear Beer Cellar also helped to curate special brand selections for the festival.

“This festival is becoming a staple for the downtown area. Every year, the Sheraton Niagara Falls USA looks forward to partnering with the Tap & Craft team. Events like this showcase how great the Western New York area is and what we have to offer,” Daniel Tighe, general manager, Sheraton Niagara Falls USA, said.

• What: The Tap & Craft Festival
• When: Saturday, October 21, 2023
• Time: VIP Session 3 – 4:30 pm (Sold Out)
• General Session 4:30 – 8 pm
• Location: The Niagara Falls Convention Center, 101 Old Falls Street, Niagara Falls

“The Niagara Falls National Heritage Area is proud to sponsor the Tap & Craft Festival and recognizes the hard work and dedication of those involved in building this positive event that gives locals and visitors a reason to enjoy live music and craft brews at the peak of fall foliage season in Western New York,” Sara Capen, executive director, Niagara Falls National Heritage Area, said.

• Ticket Prices: $30 online $40 day of event (if available)
• Designated Driver Ticket Price: $10 (includes bottle of water)
• Tickets can be purchased via www.tapandcraft.com.
• Your ticket includes: admission, commemorative tasting glass, unlimited 3-ounce beer samples, opportunity to meet craft brewers/makers and talk shop, $15 in free slot play from the Seneca Niagara Casino, live music from The Far Trio, cornhole tournament and yard games

For tickets, and to see the full pour list, visit www.tapandcraft.com.

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Eli Fish Brewing to Hold Annual Oktoberfest in Batavia

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

Tickets on Sale for Second Annual Tap & Craft Festival

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

Hofbrauhaus Kickoff Oktoberfest With Eric Wood

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

Hamburg Brewing Company 10^th Anniversary Party

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

Queen City Meadery 5^th Anniversary Party

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

Ballpark BrewBash Takes Over Sahlen’s Field This Weekend

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

Borderland Festival Returns This Weekend

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

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

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

Celebrate Halloween This Year With Local Beer

There are a number of options if you’re looking to don your best Halloween costume and grab a fresh locally brewed pint this year. Happening this weekend around Western New York is Halloween Candy Pairing at Magic Bear Beer Cellar, Spooky Brews & BBQ at One-Eyed Cat Brewing, Halloween Silent Disco at Resurgence Brewing, Halloween at Woodcock Brothers, King-o-Ween Costume Party at Southern Tier Brewing, Halloween Bash at 12 Gates Brewing, Nightmare On Chandler Street [Halloween Bash] at Thin Man Chandler, Halloween Party & Costume Contest at BTR Brews, Drink Or Treat at Community Beer Works, Hamburg Halloween Party – Under the Tent and more.

Limited Tickets Remain for Inaugural Tap & Craft Festival

The first ever Tap & Craft Festival, coming to the Niagara Falls Convention Center on October 29 (4-9pm), will feature craft brews from more than 30 craft breweries, wineries and cideries from Upstate New York, live music from Storm, food, cornhole and other yard games. There are a limited amount of tickets still remaining for $30 presale ($40 day of), which include admission, commemorative tasting glass and unlimited 3-ounce beer samples. Designated Driver tickets are $10. Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite via www.tapandcraft.com.

Big Ditch Brewing Teams with Clonakilty Distillery on New Spirit

Big Ditch has partnered with Clonakilty Distillery on a new, very limited collaboration. In November 2021, Big Ditch shipped freshly emptied bourbon barrels that held 2021 Towpath to the Irish distillery, who then filled them with a blend of their whiskey, where it aged for 9 months, adding roast and chocolate notes to the spirits. Representatives from Clonakilty Distillery will be at Big Ditch on October 29 (2-5pm) to preview the whiskey before it’s available in stores. The event is free and snacks and samples will be provided.

Aurora Brew Works Launches Beer Advent Calendar Box

While Christmas is still a few months away, Aurora Brew Works have launched their advent-style beer box filled with 24 16oz. cans. Each case includes a variety of styles, including lagers, ambers, stouts, IPAs, sours and more, with no cheap filler beers (their words). Cans are individually numbered and are meant to be enjoyed on each of the 24 days leading up to Christmas. Boxes cost $109 (plus tax) and are available for preorder right now www.aurorabrewworks.com. You can select in-store pickup or local delivery, for an additional fee. Boxes will be ready for pickup starting November 21.

Thin Man Brewery Put New Spin on Minkey Boodle

Thin Man Brewery is releasing a new version of their beloved Minkey Boodle sour on November 4. The new take, Minkey Sunrise, is brewed with raspberry, mango and passionfruit, putting a new spin on Buffalo’s favorite sour. Minkey Sunrise will be available on draft and in 16oz. 4-pack cans at both Thin Man locations.

42 North to Release Apple Cider Donut Pastry Gose

42 North Brewing is set to release Unparalleled Universe, the latest beer in their “The Brewery at the End of the Universe” line, on October 29. This 6% apple cider donut pastry gose features juice made from 100% Blackbird Cider Works estate grown apples as well as barley, oat and wheat malts for body and notes of fresh-baked donut from milk sugar and a touch of cinnamon. Unparalleled Universe will be available wherever great craft beer is sold in Buffalo and Rochester beginning the first week of November.

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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