SF Beer Week kicks off on February 22 and promises vibrant celebrations of local breweries. The festival features outdoor events, a diverse range of activities, and participation from 40 local breweries, showcasing the Bay Area’s rich beer culture amid challenges faced during winter months.
As SF Beer Week kicks off this Saturday, February 22, beer enthusiasts in the Bay Area are gearing up for a vibrant celebration of the local brewing community. In its 16th year—marking its 15th official event since 2021—SF Beer Week promises a diverse array of activities across numerous venues, highlighting the thriving beer culture in the region.
The festival will revert to a smaller, outdoor format reminiscent of two years ago, departing from the large gala of previous years. This year’s programme includes two significant opening events, designed to engage the community while allowing participants to explore a wider selection of breweries. The Bay Area Brewers Guild has planned a Brews & Bites event on Friday, February 21, at the 21st Amendment brewery in San Leandro, followed by the San Francisco Beer Week Fest in Salesforce Park the next day.
Taking place in the expansive 5.4-acre Salesforce Park, the “first” San Francisco Beer Week Fest will feature 40 local breweries providing sampler pours of their unique offerings. Notable names in attendance will include local favourites such as Cellarmaker, HenHouse, and Barebottle Brewery, which operates a full-time kiosk at the park. Lesser-known gems like Canyon Lakes Brewery from San Ramon and Loma Brewing from Los Gatos will also be represented, enabling attendees to experience a broad spectrum of the region’s brewing excellence.
Tickets for the fest are priced at $90 for general admission, which allows entry at 1:30 pm, and $111 for a VIP experience that offers early access beginning at noon. This year’s event is equipped to cater to a larger audience while maintaining the intimate, engaging spirit of previous editions.
“SF Beer Week is a flagship event for beer drinkers from across the state and the wider US, so we’re excited to be bringing it back for another year,” said Anthony Raggio, president of the Bay Area Brewers Guild. He emphasised the anticipated buzz surrounding the kick-off events, which are designed to create a vibrant atmosphere while showcasing the rich tapestry of the local brewing scene.
Beyond the opening activities, SF Beer Week boasts a packed calendar of events stretching over ten days. From a Brewers’ Dinner costing $162 at the San Francisco Brewing Company on February 25, where guests will enjoy a curated food menu paired with select beers, to a special collaboration dinner at Anchovy Bar on February 26 featuring beers from Sante Adairius Rustic Ales, there is something for every beer aficionado.
On February 27, the spotlight will shift to Harmonic Brewing at Thrive City as Gumbo Social serves up gumbo, paired with an enticing selection of beers. Additionally, six brewers will engage in a friendly competition during a pinball tournament at Outer Orbit, where they will bring specialty kegs to share with participants.
The concluding celebrations, set for March 1, will feature the annual IPA Overdose event at Liquid Gold, showcasing top-tier IPAs from acclaimed breweries including Alvarado St., Ghost Town, and Russian River, promising an immersive experience for hop lovers.
Raggio remarked on the seasonal challenges many breweries face during winter months, urging the public to support their local establishments by visiting for pints or participating in the diverse events throughout SF Beer Week.
As the Bay Area anticipates this year’s festivities, breweries are poised to benefit from the increased attention and support, reinforcing the region’s reputation as a vibrant beer destination. With an impressive line-up and a commitment to celebrating local brewing talent, SF Beer Week is set to be a highlight in the industry calendar, appealing to professionals and beer enthusiasts alike.
Source: Noah Wire Services
