8 minute read
Hoppy Times
Beer Festivals Celebrate Craft & Community in New Hampshire
STORY & PHOTOGRAPHY BY KENDAL J. BUSH
As the vivid greens of summer start to lose their glisten and the warm hues of autumn twirl into the landscape with the awakening of peeper season and pumpkin everything, fall beer festivals make their way into some of the area’s best outdoor venues.
New Hampshire fall beer festivals are about more than just craft beer — they’re a celebration of community, the great outdoors and the harvest season. From the Canadian border to southern New Hampshire and the coast and mountains in between, these gatherings are where families, friends and beer enthusiasts come together to create memories against the backdrop of New Hampshire’s stunning fall scenery.
Manchester Arms Park Brew Fest
Pulsing in the heart of Manchester, the Manchester Arms Park Brew Fest takes full advantage of its scenic riverside setting. With more than 70 breweries participating, the festival is a favorite for its stunning views and the variety of beers.
The setting here — right by the river, with a mix of colorful murals, Millyard history and open green spaces — makes it an ideal place to spend an afternoon.
The festival draws a diverse crowd, from local families to visitors from neighboring states.
Pam Morose splits her time between Massachusetts and St. Thomas, working as a chef and cicerone (think sommelier for wine but for beer), who is passionate about food and beer.
“I bought my tickets in May to come up here. It’s an easy Saturday afternoon,” Morose said. “It brings people together, and that’s always a good thing. And you don’t see anybody sad here; everybody is just hanging out and having a good time.”
As she headed into the massive beer tent to try a new brew in her 3-ounce tasting glass, Pam remarked, “I love the science of beer. Everybody here brings something different to the table, and that’s what I love and that’s why I’m here.”
“This is one of the best,” Ken said. “It’s consistent, and the people are very welcoming.”
Multigenerational groups of festival-goers are a common sight at all of the festivals. Jim Keeley and his group of family and friends enjoy sample sips as they enjoy a view of the Merrimack River. Closer to the sprawling beer tent, Polly and Ron Bath were all smiles as they contemplated their next beer selections.
“It’s not about coming here to drink as much as you can; it’s about coming here for the experience,” Polly said. “I love that young people are getting into this and are making things that are wonderful. They’re brave, always inventive, and we can all enjoy it together, so there’s really no generation gap here, which to me is fabulous.”
Between sips, attendees can hop on over to enjoy some live music on the main stage, throw an ax or two, or pick up a few medieval weapon-maneuvering moves as the New England Steel Fighters steal the show, wielding large swords and weapons in all-around medieval mayhem while donned in full armor. The charity organization is focused on bringing awareness to veterans’ issues.
Queen City native and owner of Stark Brewery Peter Telge has run the festival for the majority of its existence, and also has a sharp focus on giving back.
“I think it’s important to give back to the community some way, somehow,” Telge said.
This year’s festival benefits the Friends of the Manchester Animal Shelter.
WHEN: Sept. 21, 1-4 p.m. (VIP starts at noon)WHERE: Arms Park, Manchester WEB: manchesterbrewfest.com
603 Brewery’s Fall Fest Block Party
At the 603 Brewery in Londonderry, the annual 603 Fall Fest Block Party is a heartfelt nod to traditional German festivities with a New England twist. Here, the staff pours their passion into creating an event that resonates deeply with the origins of Oktoberfest, celebrating the hop harvest and the brewing culture.
“We go all out because we care deeply about this festival. It’s about more than beer; it’s about celebrating tradition and making it accessible to everyone,” 603 Head Brewer Doug Pominville said.
The festival features homemade schnitzel and hop-infused beer cheese, creating a culinary experience that complements the wide array of beers on tap.
The dog-friendly family environment at 603 radiates a welcoming, laid-back backyard vibe. Last October, first-time festival-goer Jen Wagner came with her family and their new French bulldog rescue, Sansa.
“It’s fantastic; it’s a great family atmosphere, fun to hang out, have some laughs and some drinks, and meet all the dogs,” Wagner said.
The inclusive setting is welcoming to pet owners, who appreciate the chance to bring their dogs along.
“We love that we can bring our pets. It’s not just about enjoying a beer; it’s about advocating for rescue animals in a community setting,” said Matthew Apkarian, who was enjoying some quality time with his wife, Brittney, and their pitbull rescue, Barney.
WHEN: Oct. 5, starting at noonWHERE: 603 Brewery & Beer Hall, Londonderry WEB: 603brewery.com
Powder Keg Beer and Chili Festival
As the season progresses, the Powder Keg Beer and Chili Festival in Exeter introduces a fiery twist to the fall festival lineup. Combining craft beer with gourmet chili, the festival offers a palate-pleasing adventure set to the tune of live music and bustling activity.
First-time festival vendor Jasmine Patel, founder of Omnium Brewing, enjoys the opportunity to share and pair menu items from their Somersworth location, including her chili. Likewise, participating Chef Adam Sainsbury, who uses stout beer in his chili recipe, shared his excitement and his chili as a first-timer at the festival. And whether you like your chili spicy or mild, the beers are best served cold. Volunteer Mark Schultz has been shoveling ice for vendors every year, rain or shine, since the festival began.
Local residents Jay and Courtney Lodico are also regulars who never miss the opportunity to enjoy the festival with friends.
“It’s an incredible celebration of town, community and folks who are like-minded in this space,” Jay said at last year’s event. “It’s a great event for the local small businesses to get involved with, and big beer brands really bring the whole town together.”
“We don’t miss it! This is our favorite,” Courtney added. “The town does a great job of making it new and fresh every year, and it’s one of the most important days on our social calendar.”
The couple shares the tradition with friends who look forward to keeping their outfits fresh as well by adding a new element to the costume each year. Last year’s additions were beer and pretzel earrings and Oktoberfest hats.
WHEN: Oct. 5, noon to 4 p.m.WHERE: Swasey Parkway, Exeter WEB: powderkegbeerfest.com
Looking for more beer festivals?
Schilling Oktoberfest — 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sept. 28. This festival at Schilling Beer Co. in Littleton features two sampling sessions, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 4 to 8 p.m. Tickets are $85 and $15 for designated drivers. (Schillingbeer.com)
16th Annual New Hampshire Brewfest — noon to 4:30 p.m., Oct. 12. Held on the grounds of Cisco Brewers in Portsmouth. Sample craft brews from New England and beyond. Tickets are $80 for VIP, $60 general admission and $20 for designated drivers. (nhbrewfest.com)
