Normally, it takes quite an effort to impress this beer festival afficionado. Living it Atlanta six or seven years, I’ve pretty much been there, done that for the vast majority of these April through October beer focused festivals.
So, when I say that the relatively new player Winter Beer Carnival is now officially on my top 3 list, I’d hope you trust my credibility. In only its second year standing, I hope to prove in the next few paragraphs exactly why this festival should be one of your favorites as well.
First of all, the concept - imagine a grown-up carnival with the same games (bowling, life-sized Operation, etc.), foods (did I smell Funnel Cake?), live music and yes, miniature rides (a small Snow Slide and Fun House) that you loved as a child, combined with an all-day drinking festival. Paradise much? The tents this year were spread out so you could wander around the premise while avoiding the majority of the crowds. Plus, games were well interspersed with the beer lines, making it a requirement to re-fill your mini tasting glass before playing. Oh and don’t forget about the sweet trinkets that you get for winning!
Secondly, the location and wide variety of drinks available are two key components to a great beer festival. This year’s location was much approved - moving to a parking lot by 8th and Spring in Midtown walking distance to the Midtown MARTA stop (instead of last year’s spot by Tech, harder to get to). Of course, it also helped that we had an unseasonably warm “Spring” day in February to add to the atmosphere. I was also very impressed by the variety of beers - even a few breweries as a beer connoisseur that I had never heard of. Also, for those who don’t enjoy suds, mixed liquor tastings were also available for consumption.
Finally, and most importantly, the crowd in attendance at this year’s event was unbeatable. You could tell from the moment you got in the long (but fast moving) line that this beer festival attracted a fun group. I’m sure the location and weather had a lot to do with the appeal but in general, meeting new and old faces made for a great few hours of outdoor drinking.
My complaints were few (mostly upset that the lines for beer didn’t have labels for what you were in line for and as always, the fact that tables started running out of drinks by the end) but all in all, highly recommend trying this beer festival next season to unleash your inner child. Cheers to drinking games, literally!
Share on Facebook