You won’t see a more happy group of people than beer geeks walking into a Beer Festival. Tent after tent lay before them with liquid gold almost bursting from their taps…it really is a Magical sight! As the day trickles away and taps begin to run dry, that same group of happy geeks begins to look a little…dry.
We’ve pulled together a short list of TIPS to get the most out of your festival experience while keeping the nasty side effects at bay.
TIP #1 – This is the most important, Numero Uno, thing to remember when going to a Beer (really any) Festival. STAY HYDRATED! Despite never finding the bottoms of your mini mugs, your body needs good ol’ fashioned H2O. Yes, I know this seems like common sense, but if you want to enjoy your time and wake up like a champ the next morning, drink plenty of water. We drank water before the event and filled our CAMELBAKs before leaving the house, despite knowing there would be complimentary water bottles available (Where were those again? <–My point exactly).
TIP #2 – TP! Fellow ladies, I know you feel me on this one. Think back to the feeling that crept up your spine the last time you spied a nice, neat row of port-o-potties set up along the edge of the festival grounds. Now remember what you saw, and more importantly, what you didn’t see when you walked into that hell box…no toilet paper! Son of a *?#%!! I don’t need to go into further detail about this, just bring your own roll, trust me, you’ll need it. *If you really want to stay fresh consider travel wet wipes.
TIP #2 (a) – Other essentials: Sunscreen & Bug Spray if the event is outside, a Backpack, if you don’t have a Camelback/Hydration Pack, to carry your swag from the vendors and leave your hands free for more important things…like beer and food.
So, we’ve passed the gates, we’ve guzzled some brews, and now…we’re starving! If you didn’t eat before the festival, like us, you’re headed down a slippery slope, my friend! This brings us to—
TIP #3 – Remember to eat! Make your own pretzel necklaces and munch between drinks. Check out the food vendor booths, they’re likely local and showcasing their incredible talents. If they’ve really gotten into the spirit, they may have prepared your snack to compliment the beer in your hand, don’t be afraid to ask them if they partnered with a local brewery to concoct a complimentary pairing!
Tip #4 – Don’t just fill your mugs and leave, talk with the person pouring your drink, you may be talking directly with the Brew Master that crafted that beer! If the festival limits attendance, lines will be short and you’ll be able to ask about the drink in your hand, drinks and events on the horizon, and the secret brew they might be hiding behind their tables (You’ll always find at least 1!) Craft brewers are in it for the passion of their projects and, we know firsthand, that they love sharing their stories with anyone that takes the time to listen.
Our Final Tip, TIP #5 – Get home safely. A lame ending, I know, but you’ll know when you’ve reached your limit. It’s so easy to get a ride home nowadays (via Uber, Lyft, Taxi, a friend/child/parent) keep yourself and those on the road alongside you safe.
Happy Beer-festing and Cheers!
Think we forgot something here? Share your tips for a great festival experience below!
Chews and Brews 
One thought on “Beer Fest Survival Guide”