The Great American Beer Festival is as grand as its name. There are hundreds of beers from across the United States available to taste, and a couple thousand breweries that submit entries to the private competition considered the Oscars of the beer world. It all culminates in a medal ceremony on the last day of the three-day festival and beer competition.
In the past, booths lined the large tasting floor of the Colorado Convention Center according to region as you drank your way through America. This year, it’s out with the map and in with the aesthetics. Breweries will instead be grouped into one of four themed areas: Biergarten, where you’ll feel like you’re at the famous Bavarian Oktoberfest; Sports and Games for the beers that go best with bar stools and ESPN; Spooky-Scary, where Halloween will descend two weeks early; and Beer and Beyond, for all things that aren’t quite beer (including seltzers and hard teas) as well as international craft beers.
Over two evenings, October 10 and 11, the Paired event partners craft breweries with chefs to serve small bites with beer. (You can purchase tickets for just the Paired event or Paired and general admission. If you’re still hungry or you have a general admission ticket, there’ll be food trucks to balance out all the hops and malts. Of course, to really do this festival right, you’ll want to channel your inner 16th-century German brewer-monks and wear a pretzel necklace that you can buy at the festival’s entrance. It’s a fun nod to history, and a good palate cleanser between beers, especially once you start on some of the wilder brews.
Dozens of brewers will have a spot at the beer fest this year including 3 Floyds Brewing, BrewDog and the Vermont Cider Company. The entire list can be found here. Texas-based 903 Brewers is returning this year and always has something funky on their list, like their 2023 Blueberry Donut Slushy Supreme. This year it’s a Barrel Aged Peanut Butter Stout. Last year, Mythmaker Brewing from Colorado brought their tangy “Dill With It” pickle beer, and Sun King Brewery had Polynesian Passion, a barrel-aged Belgian tripel from Indiana with pineapple, orange and toasted coconut. If you’re not feeling experimental, there are around 21 styles of beer to choose from, with something from almost every state and hundreds of beers to try in total.
The Specs
- Nearly 60,000 people attend.
- Tickets go on sale July 17. Last year, tickets cost $95 for the general session, and $199 for the VIP experience.
- Check out Fifty Grande’s review of the festival and a guide to the best things to do in Denver.
FAQs
What airport is closest to the festival?
The Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport is closest but it may be easier to fly into Denver International Airport which is just 24 miles away.
Where exactly does the beer fest take place?
It is held at the Colorado Convention Center which is located at 700 14th St, Denver, CO 80202
What do I need to know before I attend?
Know that GABF offers an extensive beer tasting, the country’s most important beer competition as well as educational seminars, live music and food.
Who attends GABF?
You’ll find brewery owners, industry folks and craft beer enthusiasts.
What beer styles are represented?
You’ll find ales, lagers, stouts, porters, and specialty beers.
Are children allowed?
This is a leave-the-kid-at-home kind of event. Attendees must be aged 21 or over.
What if I’m not drinking?
There’s a Designated Driver ticket (which cost $30 in 2023) that gives you access to a lounge, unlimited soda, and even a special gift.
What else is there other than beer?
The fest bills itself as “America’s favorite beer festival and cultural phenomenon” in it’s marketing materials but even beer enthusiasts need a break, or at least something outside of their glass to keep the day exciting. Last year, there was live music by the food trucks, a silent disco on the tasting floor, and even a karaoke and costume party area.
What time do doors open each day?
The hour for each day are:
- Thursday, October 10 – 5:30 – 9:30 pm
- Friday, October 11 – 5:30 – 9:30 pm
- Saturday, October 12 – 12:30 – 4:30 pm
What is the event entry policy?
Attendees must be 21+. Proof of age is required. The Brewers Association no longer requires proof of vaccination status to attend an in-person meeting or event.
Is re-entry allowed at the fest?
No. The Great American Beer Festival has a no re-entry policy.
Who produces the America/Denver 2024 Great American Beer Festival?
Great American Beer Festival is brought to you by the Brewers Association.
When is the presale?
It was on July 16.
Posters
