September in Bellingham, Wash. is a time for college students to return to their dorms and gear up for the long academic year ahead. But, it’s also a time for craft beer lovers to gather during a 10 day celebration dedicated to all things beer at the 2nd Annual Bellingham Beer Week, Sept. 20-29.
This not-for-profit event is organized by Bellingham locals who have donated their time to promote and raise their glass to craft beer. Jim Parker of Astoria, Ore.’s Fort George Brewery and Aaron Matson, owner of Bellingham’s The Copper Hog, dreamt up the idea for this craft beer gala while sharing some brews at the 2012 Seattle Beer Week. Wondering why Bellingham didn’t already have their own week-long homage to all things sudsy, they decided to launch one themselves, along with the help of other brewers, shop owners and craft beer enthusiasts.
With Year One under their belt, organizers for the event have gone all out for the second annual Bellingham Beer Week, complete with a variety of beer inspired activities, specialty brews, a book signing and more. Attendees of the event are encouraged to stop by one of the many brewers nights taking place at McKay’s Taphouse and Pizzeria, Elizabeth Station, The Copper Hog and more.
Looking for something low key? Then kick back during a screening of the documentary, “Beer Hunter: The Movie,” at the Pickford Film Center’s Limelight Cinema. The Copper Hog is set to host a variety of special events including a Lager Off Competition, IPA Challenge and Barleywood Squares. Also be sure to pick up a copy of John Holl’s recent release, The American Craft Beer Cookbook, and snag his John Hancock during one of his book signings at Chuckanut Brewing and Village Books.
Other activities include a free home brewing demonstration from North Corner Brewing Supply, special happy hours at participating bars and restaurants and specialty brews including a collaborative Belgian Style Dark Strong Ale from Bellingham’s three craft breweries, Chuckanut Brewery, Boundary Bay Brewery and Kulshan Brewery.
Come enjoy the featured attractions offered at the 2nd Annual Bellingham Beer Week. For more information, a full list of events, vendors and more, visit Bellingham Beer Week.
