The Best Craft Beer Festivals in the U.S.

Where: Denver, Colorado 

When: October 3-5

The GABF is a three-day extravaganza held in Denver that was founded in 1982. Organized by the Brewers Association, GABF holds a level of authority and respect that attracts the entire beer industry year after year. 

“GABF represents the largest collection of U.S. beer served in a public tasting event, plus a private competition,” says Brewers Association marketing director Ann Obenchain. “The festival features 4,800+ beers from more than 800 breweries from all 50 states.” 

Adds Chicago-based beer expert and food and drink writer Meredith Heil: “It might be the obvious choice, but I really can’t think of a better beer festival than GABF. Every single brewery you love is in the house, and the booths are staffed with actual brewers instead of reps or volunteers. The energy inside the convention center is totally infectious, and you get to try so many beers you’d never find in your home market. As long as you remember to hydrate and account for Denver’s elevation when pounding those high-ABV brews, it’s truly an unforgettable experience.”

Pro tip: Use the My GABF app as a guide. You can search by brewery or beer, track what you try, and take tours of the hall based on your tastes—like “Sour Puss,” “The Im-PAKE-er,” “Session-Me Street,” “Dark Vader,” “Unicorn Beers,” and “Surprise Me.”

Tickets go on sale July 31; available here

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