Today is the first day (of three) of the Great American Beer Fest!
Before Joe and I moved to Denver, we only dreamed of attending this festival whose competing brewers touted wins to the world. Now, as locals, we await - like children for Christmas - the opening of the doors and the resounding lilt of bagpipes announcing one of the greatest beer gatherings, like, ever.
We went in 2012, 2013, 2014, & 2015. We didn't go last year because we were moving (and had spent a fortune renovating). But this year, I had my finger on the button to be one of the first to get tickets. And here we are...day one.
Over the years the festival has gained traction as the craft brewing industry has exploded. The first several years, it was a way for brewers to convene. Tickets never sold out. Last year, tickets sold out in about 47 minutes.
Denver - and most of Colorado - has jumped on the band wagon, claiming the whole week as Colorado Craft Beer Week. There have been events at almost every major brewery; many restaurants get in on the action holding tap takeovers or special tappings. It's really quite exciting to see brewers not only convening and competing, but taking an interest in their fans, and brewing special beers for the occasion.
This year there are just over 800 breweries in attendance - and more than 3900 different beers. We have tickets for tonight and Friday night, but will only taste around 250 beers (at a couple of sips at a time - pours are about an ounce, and Joe and I share...it's the only way).
So, I've picked out the beer t-shirt I'm wearing (a vintage GABF shirt), I've made an attack plan, and noted a couple of the special must-have beers (Sam Adams Utopias). I think I'm ready!
Cheers!
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