@Andy Hedden

That’s a Wrap — See You in 2026! 🍻

What a weekend! Huge thanks to the brewers, volunteers, and beer lovers who made the 2025 Great Alaska Craft Beer Festival unforgettable. From frothy pours to lawn games and late spring sunshine, this year’s celebration was one for the books.

Mark your calendars—we’ll see you again next Memorial Day weekend in 2026! In the meantime, here’s a look back at the 2025 festival and what you can expect next time:


Great Alaska Craft Beer Festival 2025

May 23–24, 2025 | Haines, Alaska

Nestled in the heart of Haines and surrounded by the towering Chilkat Mountains, the Great Alaska Craft Beer Festival is a spirited celebration of brewing creativity, community, and unforgettable flavors. Established in 1992, this iconic gathering holds the title of Alaska’s oldest craft beer festival—and it’s only gotten better with age.

Hosted by the Southeast Alaska State Fair, this annual event brings together craft brewers and beer lovers for a weekend of camaraderie, crisp pours, and early summer fun. Whether you're here to discover new favorites or reunite with old friends, there’s no better way to kick off the season in Southeast Alaska.

🍽 Friday, May 23, 2025
The Gourmet Brewers’ Dinner
A limited-seating, five-course feast perfectly paired with hand-selected regional brews. Only 200 tickets were available—and yes, it sold out quickly!

🍻 Saturday, May 24, 2025
12:00 PM – Connoisseur Tasting
Early-access hour to savor exclusive pours and chat with the brewers themselves.

1:00 PM – General Admission Tasting
The taps flowed, the music played, and the field was buzzing with local food, craft vendors, and unbeatable Haines energy.
Taps closed promptly at 5:00 PM!

🚐 Coming in 2026?
Stay tuned for updated shuttle schedules and event announcements closer to next spring.

 

Get Ready to Raise a Glass!

Join us for the tastiest weekend of the year – check out event details and grab your tickets while they last!

 

Southeast Alaska State Fair

This non-profit organization hosts many events in Haines throughout the year, including the annual...

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About the Festival

The Great Alaska Craft Beer & Home Brew Festival made its debut in 1992 and has proudly grown into one of Alaska’s most anticipated events. Organized by the nonprofit Southeast Alaska State Fair, proceeds from the festival help support year-round community programs and events in Haines.

The weekend kicks off Friday evening with the Gourmet Brewers’ Dinner—a multi-course culinary experience that pairs locally inspired dishes with exceptional brews from across the region. Saturday begins with the Connoisseur’s Hour, offering early access for beer aficionados to enjoy a quieter tasting environment and talk shop with the brewers before the general admission crowd rolls in.

The festival also hosts one of the most competitive Home Brew Competitions in the region, with brewers vying for the coveted Best in Show award. From newcomers to seasoned experts, this event showcases some of the most innovative and delicious homemade brews in the North.

With its friendly atmosphere, incredible views, and lively mix of music, food, and festivities, the Great Alaska Craft Beer & Home Brew Festival is more than an event—it’s a reunion. Many guests return year after year, making memories and raising a glass to the good life in Haines.

 

Places To Stay

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Bars & Breweries

Sampling and sipping beer, craft gin, or infused vodka which is produced and shared in our tasting rooms or pubs with natural products found locally, is time well spent.