The Great American Beer Festival (GABF) was started in 1982 by a nuclear engineer Charlie Papazian. Although the modern festival is held in Denver, Colorado, originally it started in Boulder, Colorado. The original festival had only 22 participating breweries, but now its quantity has risen up to 700.
So, why should you visit the GABF? First of all, you can try the craft beer brewed by a number of local brewers. And there’s a lot of beers for you to try. Over 3,500 beers can be tasted, and if the brewery runs out of certain beer, there’s still 3,499 for you to go. All beers are served in a one-ounce sample cup, and you can take the unlimited number of them.
The session of the GABF lasts for three days, starting from 5:30 pm till 10:00 pm. All but one session are open to all visitors, the Saturday afternoon session is open to the members of the Brewers Association only. Tickets for one day of the session cost $80 only, and the price includes the festive program, unlimited beer samples and a commemorative plastic tasting cup. Designated drivers can purchase tickets to the GABF for $25 only, the price includes the festive program, unlimited number of free sodas and a special gift for you.
Apart from the beer tasting festive program, there’s also a competition that is held among the breweries. This is a closed event, accessible for members of the Brewers Association. The competitive part includes the golden, silver and bronze medals for the breweries in 92 categories. You will also have an opportunity to discuss with famous brewers the latest brewing techniques, and participate in food and beer educational seminars.
The Great American Beer Festival is one of the festivals you should really visit, because it’s the only one place that brings together all craft brewers of the nation and shows, that the Americans are a great beer-brewing nation. Remember, that you have to be 21+ years old and have a valid ID to attend the festival.
Photo: © Brewers Association
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