One of the main reasons we decided on Denver as our honeymoon destination was the fact that the
Great American Beer Festival (GABF) was going on the weekend after we got married. What perfect timing!
The GABF is one of the largest beer festivals in the country and it had over 2,000 beers available. The beer festival is also a contest with lots of different beer categories and they announce the winners at the Saturday members only session.
When to buy your tickets?You want to buy your tickets well in advance, that is the first step! Tickets went on sale in June, while the festival was held in Sept/Oct. There are 4 sessions within 3 days. We had tickets to the Thursday night session and the Saturday Members Only session. These were the best sessions according to many. The Friday night and Saturday night sessions are filled with a lot more people who are just looking to get drunk, almost like a Frat party. It's nice to get drunk, but I prefer to be surrounded by people who are there to enjoy the beer.
How does the festival work?You will arrive at the convention center with a very long line awaiting you. Don't worry! It moves fast. In my opinion it's
not worth going an hour or two early just to stand in line. Like this and many other festivals, you receive a tasting cup when you get inside.
Now you are in and you have your cup! Try not to get too overwhelmed because it's huge inside and there are so many beers to be drank. Take your sampling cup around to any and all breweries to try what they have to offer. Each one will pour you a 2 oz. pour and make sure to find the beers first, that are going to go fast!
Tips and guidelines for surviving: Make yourself a pretzel necklace! I was impressed with how badass some of the necklaces were, people basically had whole meals around their necks. Some included mini bagels, slim jims, and string cheese.
Pace yourself! The festival is 4 1/2 hours long, you will have plenty of time to try tons of beer. Don't drink too much too fast, you don't want to be THAT guy who is either sick or gets thrown out. Be responsible and actually taste and enjoy the beers you are drinking.
Buy a designated driver ticket. Yep, they sell these! They have a section specifically for designated drivers where they offer massages, food, drinks and things to do. You are allowed to stay with your friends of course, but you aren't allowed any alcohol. Tickets are also cheaper (of course).
Feel free to dress up and have fun!
Remember to have fun and speak to the representatives at each place, you might even score some free stuff!
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Comments (3)
sounds fun. cheers :)
Love the pretzel necklaces!! Great idea!
You looks absolutely beautiful and radiant! My heartiest congratulations. I wish I was there!