Five Ways to Join the Craft Beer Movement in 2016

By: Paula Polei

Happy New Year! January is when we all feel inspired to reset — to live better, do better, and experience something new. This year, instead of focusing solely on fitness or self-care, why not make a few resolutions that deepen your appreciation for craft beer? Whether you’re a casual drinker or a full-on beer geek, these resolutions are a great way to kick off the year and celebrate the craft beer community.

Happy New Year with craft beer
  1. Make time to experience a beer festival (or two).
    Mark your calendar for major events like the Great American Beer Festival in Denver and the Craft Brewers Conference in Philadelphia. If traveling isn’t in the budget, check out local festivals in your area. You can find an updated list of events on RateBeer.

  2. Try something new and different.
    Step outside your comfort zone! Breweries are always experimenting with new styles, so why not taste something unexpected? Maybe swap your go-to lager for a double IPA or try a sour if you’ve never had one. You might just discover your new favorite brew.

  3. Tour a brewery.
    One of the best parts of the craft beer world is meeting the people behind the brews. A brewery tour gives you a firsthand look at the passion and process that go into every pint. According to the Brewers Association, 75% of U.S. adults live within 10 miles of a local brewery — so there’s no excuse! Find one near you on craftbeer.com.

  4. Try cooking with craft beer.
    Bring beer into the kitchen! A rich stout can elevate a chili or stew, while a fruity ale adds depth to desserts. If you’re not sure where to start, use the CraftBeer.com pairing chart to match styles with your favorite dishes.

  5. Introduce a friend to craft beer.
    Everyone knows someone who sticks to the same old drink. Share a flight or bring a mix pack of approachable craft brews — light wheat beers, fruity ales, or crisp pilsners are great starting points. You might just convert them into a fellow craft beer fan.

Whatever your resolutions this year, take time to enjoy good beer, good company, and all the small moments that make life worth celebrating.

Cheers!

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