Philadelphia’scraftbeer scene continues to lure fans of independent breweries and speciality ales from all around the world thanks to its rich history dating back to the mid-19th century. The industry boomed until the US Prohibition in the 1920’s and 1930’s, which caused the industry to fall into decline. However, since the 1980’s, independentcraftbreweries have been launching at a rapid rate and firmly establishing whyPhiladelphiais often been referred to as the best beer drinking city in the USA.
Thecraftbeer scene’s popularity within the city is being recognised with a series of events in 2016 therefore thePhiladelphiaConvention & Visitors Bureauis therefore encouraging all beer lovers to discover some of the city’s newest pop-up beer gardens,craftbeer festivals and most popular beer gardens and breweries this summer. FOUR shows you some of the highlights from Philly’s craft beer scene to be enjoyed this summer…
Parks on Tap |Traveling Beer Garden
For the first time, “Parks on Tap,” a programme that will bring a mobile beer garden from park to park for 14 weeks, will take place from29 June until 2 October 2016. The beer garden will spend several days in one park location, highlighting and enhancing the offerings thatPhiladelphiacity parks provide, before moving on to the next location. Its mission is simple: well-kept outdoor spaces where friends and families can meet up to enjoy food, drinks and fun, surrounded by nature.
Pop Up Gardens |South Street and Viaduct Rail Park
Returning for the third year to its popular flagship site, thePennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS) Pop Up Gardenwill be operated by the renowned Khyber Pass Pub. Following its launch on 1 June 2016, the garden will feature a superb selection ofcraftbeers, creative cocktails, and a fantastic menu reflecting the diverse cuisines of South Philly. On key dates and weekends, the garden will also be firing up the grill for barbecues. Khyber Pass Pub also plans an exciting season of events spotlighting local and visiting brewers and special beers. The Pop Up Garden will stay open for visitors until30 September 2016, and there will also be a second pop-up site launched at Viaduct Rail Park featuring six taps.
Philly Beer Week
Craftbeer-lovers can also celebrate the love of their favourite tipple with the return of the prestigiousPhilly Beer WeekinPhiladelphia. Across the USA, there are now over 100 beer weeks, but the originalcraftbeer week started in the heart ofPhiladelphia. DuringJune 2016, over 40 local breweries will celebrate the opening of this year’s festival.The launch event at The Fillmore kick-starts 10 days of live music, food and a host of beers to sample.
Now in its ninth year, Philly Beer Week also welcomes the launch of Brotherly Suds – a beer that brings many of thePhiladelphia-area breweries together tocrafta speciality beer just for Philly Beer Week.
CombinePhiladelphia’s Beer Gardens With Eats
Morgan’s Pier,which is dubbed ‘Philadelphia’s Backyard Beer Garden’ boasts an enviable location on the Delaware River waterfront. With outdoor seating for up to 500 people, menus offered by highly acclaimed chefs,craftbeer, wine and cocktails, entertainment and events, it’s easy to see why Morgan’s Pier is one of the most popular outdoor Beer Gardens in the whole of the city. Similarly, restaurateur Michael Schulson’sIndependence Beer Gardenoffers the ultimate all-American experience, with a garden overlooking the Liberty Bell and Independence National Historic Park, and those who enjoy German food with their beer should head toFrankford Hall, where groups can relax at large tables and even get a game of ping pong started.
2nd Story Brewing Co.
For those looking to visit acraftbrewery itself, visitors toPhiladelphiacan pay a visit to2nd Story Brewing Co.,which combines acraftbrewery and restaurant inPhiladelphia’s Old City. The 2nd Story Brewing Co.’s passion forcraftbeer can be seen by all, thanks to the open brewery on the second floor.
First EverPhiladelphiaCraftBeer Invitational
Whilst the date is still being kept closely under wraps, 2016 will also welcomePhiladelphia’s first everPhiladelphiaCraftBeer Invitational.The three-hour tasting event will feature beers from 38Philadelphia-area breweries, all located within 60 miles of the city.