The Michigan Brewers Guild is a state-wide nonprofit dedicated to promoting the production and sales of Michigan-brewed beers. The Guild hosts four seasonal beer festivals throughout the year, including its upcoming 24th Michigan Brewers Guild Summer Beer Festival, which will take place in Ypsilanti’s Riverside Park along the Huron River .
Inside the park, you’ll find over a hundred breweries and over ten times as many beers. With brewers from counties across — and out of — the state, visiting novices are just as welcome as seasoned locals. Nearby, tents have food for purchase and live bluegrass crooning in the background. In the past, artists like Wilson Thicket and The Reefermen have graced the banks of the Huron River.
Although there isn’t much else to do besides drink, hear and talk about beer, the Michigan Brewers Guild Summer Beer Festival isn’t monotonous. Many breweries employ creative stunts, like 15-foot tall ice luges and bridges, to keep their attendees entertained. Enjoy the “messy honor” of tapping the firkin (a barrel of beer, from what we can tell) and don’t worry too much if you spill on yourself — Michigan’s July heat will dry you off quickly. Cap off the weekend by joining the festival-wide rendition of the Michigan Beer Fight Song. Yes, that exists. A tip? Learn the lyrics in advance.
The Specs
- Friday’s tickets cost $50 in advance and $60 at the gate. Saturday’s tickets cost $55 in advance and $65 at the gate. Purchase tickets here. Enthusiast members of the Michigan Brewers Guild will have access to early admission and ticket pre-sale. Designated Driver tickets cost $10 each.
- You must be 21 or older to attend.
- Check out Fifty Grande’s guide to Michigan here.