Chill Plate

Every year on the first weekend of June, Firestone Walker Brewing gathers some of their closest brewing friends for what is, in our estimation, one of the best beer festivals anywhere in the world. This year’s edition lived up to expectations, with brewers traveling from as far away as Sweden and New Zealand to join in the festivities. It’s hard to tell who enjoys the festival more—attendees or the brewers themselves—as the atmosphere of connection and comradery behind the scenes in the brewer’s camp is a large part of the draw. The above scenes from the festival capture some of the spirit, energy, and creativity of the festival. Top row from left » the special collaboration this year was West Side Beavo, a Pilsner collab between Firestone Walker and Beavertown Brewery; pouring the collab; anxious festival-goers queue up in the pioneer Western-themed fairgrounds. Middle row from left » Omnipollo took their “milkshake” concept one step further with stout floats; food from local vendors is included in the ticket cost, with tents scattered among the beer tents; Director of Firestone Walker Barrelworks, Jeffers Richardson, pours a magnum for the crowd. Bottom row from left » Side Project Brewing, from St. Louis, Missouri, took the people’s choice brewery award, and Founders Cory and Karen King brought their youngest team member along for the trip; Firestone Walker Brewmaster Matt Brynildson toasts a successful festival with the crowd.