Are you interested in learning more about craft beer but reluctant to fork over your hard earned dollars for a brew you’ve never heard of? Somewhat intimidated by the descriptions of craft beers on the internet; “piney, massive hops, notes of brett”, etc? The easiest way to find out what’s out there and what you might like is to attend a beer fest. These celebrations of brew gather 20-30 breweries with a couple of styles each and small samples are available for the asking. The price of an admission ticket usually covers several hours of beer tasting along with some food and live entertainment. One can circulate from booth to booth and hone in favorite styles, talk to the brewers about their beers, and gain a much better understanding of similarities and differences. There are several of these beer fests in Lancaster PA coming up this fall so grab a designated driver and check them out!

Lancaster Craft Beer Fest

Lancaster City: September 7, 2013

First up on September 7, 2013, the Lancaster Craft Beer Fest comes to the heart of Lancaster City at Binns Park and Lancaster Square on the 100 block of North Queen Street. Portions of the proceeds will go to MOOSE and Schreiber Pediatric Rehab Center of Lancaster County. Outdoor, rain or shine with live music.

General Admission info:

Access to food vendors and live music is FREE and open to all ages

Beer Garden Admission (must be 21+)

Limited VIP $55: Arrive at 1 pm (an hour before everyone else gets there) to avoid long lines and receive other perks.

General Admission $35 (online), $45 (day of): Beer garden hours are 2 pm – 5 pm.

Designated Driver $12: Access to the music, food, vendors, and all the root beer you can drink.

More admission information is available at the event website.

Brews, Brats & Bands

York: October 12, 2013

In York, Brews, Brats & Bands returns to Sovereign Bank Stadium on October 12, 2013 boasting over 30 craft brewers from York to Europe. Admission includes unlimited sampling of beers, a souvenir tasting mug, bratwurst meal, and live music.

General Admission info:

VIP Admission $65: 12:30 – 2 pm

General Admission $35: 2 – 5 pm

Designated Driver $10:

Proceeds support the the York Young Professionals.

Yorktoberfest

York: October 26-27, 2013

October 26-27 from 12-5 pm, Yorktoberfest rolls into Sovereign Bank Stadium presented by The Sons of the American Legion in their continuing effort to raise funds for local, regional, and national organizations. This event features over 50 local, regional, and international craft brews as well as wine selections in addition to music and vendors. There is also an amazing dining opportunity to take advantage of, Yorktoberfeast, featuring four courses prepared by Chef Andreaux Barnes, with appropriate wine and beer pairings throughout.

General Admission info:

Admission to the festival is FREE

Beer Sampling (1,200 tickets available)

$25 presale

$35 at the gate

Wine Sampling

$20 presale

$20 at the gate

Designated Driver

$10 and includes a free t-shirt and unlimited water or root beer

Micro Brew Fest

Adamstown: October 19, 2013

The venerable Stoudt’s Brewing Company brings you over 40 beers from America’s finest breweries, great food and two bands. Located at 2800 N. Reading Road Adamstown, PA 19501, they are holding their final Micro Brew Fest of the season on October 19, 2013 with two sessions: 12 – 4 pm and 6 – 10 pm (must be 21+). Advance ticket purchase is $35, $40 at the gate. Admission includes 4 hours of sampling, a buffet, live music, souvenir glass and a free shuttle to and from select local hotels. More information can be obtained by calling 717-484-4386 ext 204, Mon.-Fri. 9 to 5 pm .

Autos & Ales

Hershey: November 8, 2013

Finally, Autos & Ales takes place from 6-10 pm on November 8 at the Antique Auto Museum at Hershey. In addition to the finely crafted ales from a variety of micro-brew vendors, you will enjoy live entertainment and cooking demonstrations. While your taste buds enjoy the brew, your eyes will enjoy the exceptional automobiles that are on display within the Museum.

Comfortable Accommodations in Lancaster County, PA

While you’re here enjoying the many beer fests in Lancaster PA, come stay at the clean, comfortable, and accommodating Sleep Inn and Suites.

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