If you’re a fan of craft beers like me, Pueblo’s got you covered. This town’s home to a growing number of breweries that offer more than just great beer. They’re also becoming hotspots for community events, creating a vibrant social scene that’s hard to resist.
I’ve had the pleasure of attending a few of these events myself – from beer tastings to live music nights, and let me tell you, they’re a blast! There’s something about sipping a locally brewed pint while catching up with friends that feels just right.
Exploring Pueblo’s Brewery Scene
Let’s dive right into the heart of Pueblo’s craft beer community. My journeys have led me to some unique spots around town. Each brewery has its signature brews and their unique character that helps to define Pueblo’s beer culture.
Walter’s Brewery and Taproom is a remarkable space. It’s Pueblo’s oldest brewery. The history seeping from its walls is almost tangible. Believe it or not, they’ve been serving up enticing brews since 1889. Try their flagship “Walter’s Pilsen”, It’s a traditional Pilsner with a rich malting profile.
Brues Alehouse Brewing Co. has more of an industrial, modern feel. Their upper deck alone is a must-visit for beer aficionados and those looking for a killer view of the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk. For beer choices, you might want to try their “Blueberry Saison”. This brew is subtly sweet and undeniably refreshing.
Grey’s Coors Tavern is unique. It’s not precisely a brewery, but it’s home to the world-famous slopper, a cheeseburger topped with local green chili. Pair the slopper with a classic Coors beer, and you’ve got a winning combination.
Possibly my favorite so far, Shamrock Brewing Co. piques the interest with their Irish theme. With a mouth-watering offering of traditional pub fare and a beer range covering everything from light ales to stout, you’re sure to be immersed in a delightful Irish pub experience.
| Brewery Name | Signature Beer |
|---|---|
| Walter’s Brewery and Taproom | Walter’s Pilsen |
| Brues Alehouse Brewing Co. | Blueberry Saison |
| Grey’s Coors Tavern | Classic Coors (with slopper) |
| Shamrock Brewing Co. | A wide range |
At these locales, don’t be surprised to stumble upon various community events. One might find a beer tasting competition at Walter’s or a live music night at Shamrock Brewing. Each event has a personality as unique as the brew it’s paired with.
Brewing Up Community Events
Walking into Walter’s Brewery and Taproom is like stepping into Pueblo’s history. Housed in a building that’s seen many incarnations since it was constructed in 1889, this brewery blends the traditional with the trendy. It’s more than just another place to grab a cold one with friends. Walter’s hosts numerous community events, ranging from trivia nights to your favorite local musicians’ performances.
Next up on our list: Brues Alehouse Brewing Co. This place is not only a brewery, it’s a music venue, a weekend brunch spot, and so much more. They’ve got their finger on the pulse when it comes to the local community events. From launching their New Brew every Friday (aptly called “Freshtival Fridays”) to Sunday jazz nights, they know how to keep things buzzing.
Meanwhile, the much-beloved Grey’s Coors Tavern has its unique introduction to beer – not just in a glass, but on a plate. Their famous ‘slopper’, a bowl of delicious mess involving a burger, green chili, onions, and of course, cheese, is a culinary experience. And not to be outdone, Grey’s hosts events like the annual Slopper Eating Contest and weekly karaoke nights that make it a community hub.
Last but definitely not least, there’s the Shamrock Brewing Co. With its signature Irish aesthetic and drinks menu featuring more than a dozen home-brewed beers, this spot stands out. Shamrock keeps the community spirit alive with their festive St. Patrick’s day party. They’re also well-known for their weekly Thirsty Thursday events, which have become a city-wide tradition.
Above listed breweries tailor their events to all kinds of audiences. Let’s take a quick look at the general outline of their events in the table below.
| Brewery Name | Regularly Hosted Events |
|---|---|
| Walter’s Brewery and Taproom | Trivia Nights, Live Music Nights |
| Brues Alehouse Brewing Co. | Freshtival Fridays, Sunday Jazz Nights |
| Grey’s Coors Tavern | Slopper Eating Contest, Weekly Karaoke Nights |
| Shamrock Brewing Co. | St. Patrick’s Day Party, Thirsty Thursdays |
Types of Events to Expect
Now that we’ve touched base on the key breweries hosting community events in Pueblo, let’s dive in and know more about the types of events you, the community, and visitors alike can expect in these establishments.
Trivia Nights are popular at most breweries. This is the time when Pueblo’s most enthusiastic trivia crews gather around their favorite table, sorting out their vast knowledge of obscure facts and pop culture. It’s time to impress your friends, and maybe win a round of beers in the process.
Next up, we’ve got Live Music Performances. There’s nothing quite like sipping your favorite brew while basking in the energy created by talented, local musicians. These gigs range from acoustic sets to full-on, foot-stomping blues bands – tunes and tones to pair with every brew.
Moving on, Freshtival Fridays are a special highlight at certain places like Brues Alehouse Brewing Co. These events are dedicated to novelty and freshness, introducing new brews or special batches ready to pour and surprise your taste buds.
Sunday Jazz Nights are another popular affair, conjuring up an atmosphere of smooth relaxation to wrap up the weekend. You can wind down with some soulful tunes, perfect pairings with the dark stouts and light, citrusy IPAs on tap.
An annual event much anticipated is the Slopper Eating Contest. It’s an exciting spectacle, a race against the clock to witness who the ultimate slopper devourer in Pueblo is. In case you’re wondering, a slopper is Pueblo’s local delicacy, an open-faced burger smothered in green chili.
The fun doesn’t buckle down there though, Karaoke Nights are bound to get you on the edge of your seat or even on stage. Whether you’re the next Mariah Carey or couldn’t carry a tune in a bucket, these nights are about fun, camaraderie, and a whole lot of laughs.
Next up, St. Patrick’s Day Parties. Expect the brew to flow green as breweries doll up for a Celtic celebration, bringing in the infectious spirit of the Irish tradition.
And introducing Thirsty Thursdays, the perfect respite to the midweek madness. With deals on beers and bites, it’s the perfect event to meet with friends and enjoy the lively Pueblo craft beer scene.
Tips for Enjoying Brewery Events
Plan ahead. Many of the Pueblo breweries offer events throughout the week. You won’t want to miss out. Check their online event calendars and make a plan so you can hit up Trivia Nights, Live Music Performances, or perhaps even the annual Slopper Eating Contest.
Don’t be shy. These events are a fantastic way to meet fellow beer enthusiasts in the area. Wear your favorite beer-themed gear to identify yourself as part of the crowd. Introduce yourself. You’ll be surprised at the connections you can make.
Try something new. Events like Freshtival Fridays or Thirsty Thursdays are the perfect opportunity to branch out from your usual drink of choice. These breweries make great efforts to create unique brews- so why not give them a try? Pueblo’s craft beer community will appreciate it.
Arrive early. You’ll want to get a good spot for events like Sunday Jazz Nights and Karaoke Nights. They can get quite packed. Arriving early can solve that problem and may even lead to some pre-event mingling.
Be responsible. Remember: safety first. Designate a driver, use a ride-share service, or arrange lodging nearby if you plan on sampling generously.
The best indicator of an enjoyable experience at any event is being prepared and open to new experiences. Always remember the reason you’re there – the love of beer. It ties together the Pueblo community, and it’s a fantastic way to engage in the local social scene.
As for me, I’ll be there at the next St. Patrick’s Day Party, sporting my green hat, immersing myself in a Celtic twist, and hoping to meet long-time enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Supporting Local Breweries
Believe it or not, your presence at these brewery events means more than just a fun night out. By attending, you’re supporting local businesses who are passionate about crafting quality brews. This ties into an even bigger picture of fostering a strong sense of community, well, right here in Pueblo.
When we support local breweries, we’re not simply buying their beer, we’re putting money directly into our local economy. The aspect of “drink local” goes beyond just supporting the business itself. Pueblo breweries employ locals, and your support helps keep their doors open, thereby sustaining jobs and encouraging growth. In 2020, Colorado’s craft brewing industry contributed $3.3 billion to the state’s economy, displaying its significant economic impact.
Here’s a brief breakdown of craft breweries’ input in Colorado’s economy for 2020:
| Contribution | Amount (in billion dollars) |
|---|---|
| Gross Domestic Product | 3.3 |
Next, let’s talk about the environment. By opting for locally brewed beer, you’re doing the environment a favor. Importing beers can often involve long transportation distances, contributing to increased carbon emissions. So by choosing local, you’re helping to reduce your carbon footprint.
Additionally, craft breweries often take steps to practice sustainability. Whether it’s using locally sourced ingredients, recycling spent grains or reducing water usage, efforts to be eco-friendly are often part of their operations. These factors come together to create a symbiotic relationship between the community and the breweries, all working towards a healthier, thriving Pueblo.
If we lightly touch upon the subject of variety – can we just take a moment to appreciate the diversity of flavors and styles we’re blessed with, thanks to these local craft breweries? From hop-heavy IPAs, smooth stouts, sours, to ales and lagers – it’s an adventure for our taste buds. Attend these events to discover your next favorite brew and revel in the magic of craft beer creation.
In the end what it boils down to, is that spending an evening enjoying craft beer at a Pueblo brewery event isn’t just about the beer. It’s about community, economy, environment, diversity. It’s about appreciating the love and effort that goes into every brew, about the stories shared over clinking glasses, and the laughter echoing across the room. In the truest sense of the word, it’s about craft.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! Pueblo’s breweries aren’t just about the brews. They’re about building a stronger community, supporting our local economy, and making sustainable choices. Each event you attend is a nod to the hard work of our local brewers and a toast to the diverse flavors they bring to our tables. It’s about appreciating the art of brewing and the joy of sharing a pint with friends and neighbors. So, let’s raise our glasses to Pueblo’s breweries and the wonderful events they host. I hope to see you at the next one!
