KD Blog

Tips for the GABF!

Share:

Breweries & beer lovers alike join together this weekend for the biggest beer festival and competition in the U.S, The Great American Beer Festival. Just like the craft beer industry, this yearly event has grown tremendously. Back in 1982, when the festival was held at the Harvest House Hotel in Boulder, there were 24 breweries present and over 800 attendees. Last year, 2016, saw 780 breweries & over 60,000 attendees. This year is set to be record-setting. If you were lucky enough to get one of these hot tickets, make sure you are prepared to make the best of the weekend. Here a few things you need to know about.

 The Backyard

Don’t miss the “festival within the festival” that is the Backyard.  Here’s why you don’t want to miss it!

Yard games. You can play Twister, corn hole or ping pong.

The Heavy Medal Booth. You can try over 50 award-winning brews.

The Karaoke Stage. You can sing our hear out while all of your friends cheer you on.

DJ Brian. You can dance to whatever he may be spinnin.

Live Music. What is a beer festival with out it?

It’s a Week Full of Fun

Of course, the GABF is the spotlight event in Denver this weekend but here are some other events going on you will want to plan for.

-Small Batch Thursday at Goed Zuur. You can sample from a variety of breweries and even a winery who make their product on a much smaller scale. This event is open to the public and will be held at Goed Zuur, located in the heart of Downtown Denver.

-Beer Trivia at Peak to Peak. You can show off your beer knowledge while you have the chance to win free beer. It’s open to the public and lasts from 7-9pm at Peak to Peak Tap & Brew in Aurora.

-The list of events goes on and on. Really, check it out here.

Helpful Hints

-There’s a new entrance this year. Make sure you use it. Unlike past years, it’s the only way in. Here’s a map to make sure you find it.

-The entrance will be equipped with metal detectors. Please be safe and smart. Don’t even think about bringing the following items.

-Will call is located in the lower lobby of the Colorado Convention Center.

-There are NO lockers and NO coat checks. Make sure you plan ahead.

-There will be an ATM available next to the Will Call booth in the lower lobby.

-Wheelchairs are welcome. If you head to the elevator in the lower lobby there will be volunteers to direct you.

-Get the app! Of course, it’s free & it will act as your tour guide all weekend. Download it here for your iPhone or Android.