Warm up with a cool pint.
We have all grown accustomed to Michigan winters of whipping winds and heavy snowfalls. In years past, many children would’ve already experienced the joy of an unexpected, but anticipated, snow day. But this year has been quite mild compared to what we’re used to, and the National Weather Forecast predicts it will continue on this course. While this may hinder some snow bunnies’ plans to hit the slopes, trails, and icy ponds, beer enthusiasts can rejoice!
Michigan is one of the largest craft beer producing and consuming states in the country. To celebrate and spread the goodness of their beverages, cities around Michigan throughout the year host beer festivals and events. Some of these take place in the winter months, many of which are outdoors.
Royal Oak Beer Fest: Royal Oak, January 16
Located at the Royal Oaks Farmers Market, patrons can relax in the cool to beats of live music while enjoying a hearty pint. And according to their website, royaloakbeerfest.com, you can expect a lineup featuring 40 breweries and over 100 different crafts. This is “the perfect opportunity for beer aficionados, beer lovers, and the casual beer drinker to speak to company representatives and brewers responsible for some of their favorite brews.” Forty-five dollars will buy you a Grand Tasting ticket, and an additional 20 dollars will get you a VIP pass.
Kalamazoo Beer Week: Kalamazoo, January 16 – 23
For a full seven days, Kalamazoo with host over 250 events centered on Michigan’s love of beer. From tastings to interactive events, beer enthusiasts will get a chance to sample pints while mingling with the brewers who’ve crafted them. Be sure to peruse the KBW website to find a full listing of dates and times.
Ludington BrrrewFest: Ludington, January 30
Back by popular demand, Ludington is proud to host its 2nd annual Pure Ludington BrrrewFest. Sample brews from 30 different Michigan based breweries while enjoying good food, good music, and good company. For $25, festivalgoers will receive six drink tokens and a commemorative tasting glass!
Pint with the Past: Hickory Corners, February 13
Vintage cars, live music, and craft beer – what could be better? This Valentine’s Day weekend, grab your sweetheart and visit the quant town of Hickory Corners, located just outside of Kalamazoo, to experience the Gilmore Car Museum’s 5th annual beer-tasting fundraiser. For $35 (if purchased ahead of time, $40 at the door) you can sample beers from over a dozen breweries and revel in the beauty of more than 150 vintage automobiles.
Microbrew and Music Festival: Traverse City, February 13
Don your warmest winter wear and head to northern Michigan to enjoy a day of craft beer and live music. For $45, beer lovers can sample some of the 200+ beverages on tap, rock out to live music, and enjoy delicious meals from local food vendors. But act quickly, tickets are going fast!
Southern Michigan Winter Beer Festival: Jackson, March 12
Foodies and beer enthusiasts will love this escape from the winter winds. Enjoy a great selection of brats, sausages, and BBQ, washed down by your choice of over 150 craft beers. Purchase your tickets ahead of time for a discounted rate of $25 or buy them at the door for $35.
More Festivals!
50 Sips Wine’s Chili Cook-Off Fenton
Winter Beer Festival Comstock Park
Belgian Beer Festival Westland
Art of Beer Festival Benton Harbor
Grand Rapids Beer Week Grand Rapids
Mac ’n Brew’s & Comfort Food Royal Oak
KBS Week Grand Rapids
Brew-Ski Festival Harbor Springs
Rotary Craft Beer/Wine Tasting Event Allen Park
Be sure to add one of these events to your winter calendar and share any events in your area we may have missed to our Facebook page!