Craft beer brewing is more than just a hobby…it’s a full-blown art form. Across the U.S., brewers, both amateur and professional, get the chance to showcase their skills at beer brewing competitions that highlight creativity, quality, and a love for all things beer. Whether you’re a beer lover wanting to taste the best, or a brewer aiming to prove your worth, these competitions are where brews earn their stripes. Let’s explore the 7 best beer brewing competitions in the U.S. that celebrate the best of the best.
Great American Beer Festival (GABF) – Denver, Colorado
Established: 1982
Location: Denver, Colorad
Beers Available to Try: Over 9,000
Why It Stands Out:
The Great American Beer Festival (GABF) is the ultimate gathering for beer enthusiasts, often considered the pinnacle of beer festivals in the U.S. Brewers from every corner of the country compete in this massive event, offering more than 100 beer categories. The judging process is meticulous, but the festival is equally about discovery…you get to taste thousands of beers. GABF medals are highly sought-after, with winners enjoying elevated reputations in the craft beer community.
Insider Tip: Don’t miss the beer and food pairings. They’re an unforgettable part of the experience.
World Beer Cup – Various Locations
Established: 1996
Location: Varies
International Reach: Over 60 countries
Why It Stands Out:
Known as the “Olympics of Beer,” the World Beer Cup is an internationally recognized competition held in the U.S. every two years. Breweries from around the globe submit their best beers, competing for medals in a vast array of categories. With more than 10,000 entries, the event draws fierce competition, making it one of the most prestigious awards a brewer can win. It’s also a fantastic event for those who want to sample international brews without leaving the States.
Fun Fact: It’s held every two years, alternating with the Great American Beer Festival.
National Homebrew Competition (NHC) – Various Locations
Established: 1979
Location: Varies
Number of Entries: Around 8,000
Why It Stands Out:
The National Homebrew Competition (NHC) is all about the love of brewing on a smaller scale. This is the largest homebrewing competition worldwide, and it’s where amateurs can put their craft to the test. Brewers from all across the country enter their beers in the hopes of claiming top honors. Paired with the annual Homebrew Con, this event is a true celebration of the homebrewing community, featuring workshops, tastings, and tons of beer wisdom to soak up.
Fun Fact: Many well-known craft breweries were started by homebrewers who competed in the NHC.
The National IPA Championship (NIPAC) – Various Locations
Established: 2008
Location: Varies
Number of Entries: 150+ IPAs
Why It Stands Out:
IPAs are wildly popular in the craft beer world, and the National IPA Championship (NIPAC) is dedicated entirely to this hoppy brew. What makes this competition exciting is its format—IPAs compete head-to-head in knockout-style rounds until the best IPA is crowned. Judges taste blind, so it’s all about the beer, not the brand. This one is especially thrilling if you’re a big fan of IPAs, as it showcases the boldest and hoppiest creations out there.
Insider Tip: You can follow along with the competition bracket, just like March Madness!
Best of Craft Beer Awards – Bend, Oregon
Established: 2014
Location: Bend, Oregon
Number of Entries: Over 2,500
Why It Stands Out:
Located in the beer-loving town of Bend, Oregon, the Best of Craft Beer Awards focuses on the camaraderie and creativity of the craft beer community. While the competition is tough, the atmosphere is casual, allowing breweries to not only compete but also learn from detailed feedback provided by the judges. Bend is known for its outdoor activities and laid-back vibe, making this competition a favorite for brewers who enjoy a good brew after a day of adventure.
Insider Tip: Stick around Bend to explore its thriving local craft beer scene…it’s worth it.
US Open Beer Championship – Oxford, Ohio
Established: 2009
Location: Oxford, Ohio
Number of Entries: Over 8,000
Why It Stands Out:
At the US Open Beer Championship, both homebrewers and professional brewers can enter, making it one of the most inclusive beer competitions out there. Breweries from across the globe submit their creations, and entries are judged in more than 150 categories. This competition is known for embracing unique and experimental brews, with categories like Coffee Beer and Barrel-Aged Beer drawing lots of creative entries. It’s a great platform for brewers who like to think outside the box.
Fun Fact: Homebrewers can compete alongside industry professionals…how cool is that?
New York International Beer Competition – New York, New York
Established: 2012
Location: New York City
Number of Entries: 600+
Why It Stands Out:
The New York International Beer Competition is unique because it doesn’t just focus on taste. Beers are judged on pricing and packaging too. The judges are trade professionals like distributors and retailers, so this competition provides real-world insight into how marketable a beer is. For breweries looking to expand into new markets, this competition is a valuable opportunity. Plus, it’s set in New York City, where you can explore an incredible beer scene after the event.
Insider Tip: Check out some of NYC’s top craft beer bars while you’re in town!
Conclusion
The U.S. is home to some of the best beer brewing competitions in the world, each offering a unique flavor…literally! Whether you’re a homebrewer looking to break into the big leagues or a craft beer lover just wanting to try something new, these competitions give you a chance to taste the best brews out there. From the hop-heavy IPAs at NIPAC to the international flair of the World Beer Cup, there’s something for everyone. So next time you’re planning a trip, consider visiting during one of these awesome beer events. You’ll definitely leave with a new favorite brew (or five).
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