GABF 2009

September 26, 2009, my first ever Great American Beer Festival. The event brings over fifty thousand people from around the globe. From my observations, the festival brings a whole lot of people looking for good beer and good fun. Both were had!

I jumped in line at the Denver Convention Center around 5:00pm. Standing in line wasn't too bad, it only took a half an hour to get inside. I enjoyed watching people walk by wearing homemade t-shirts with silly beer slogans, intricate pretzel necklaces and other still looking for last minute tickets. Since I didn't think ahead to make my own pretzel necklace at home, I splurged $3 for one.

Once inside, an overwhelming scene hit me all at once. First, the wonderful aroma of beer smacked me right in the face. Next, mobs of people with mini beer glasses walking around looking for the best taste. I grabbed my glass and headed for my first taste.

First lesson, don't drop your cup. This part of the event felt a little bit like a frat party. When someone drops their cup an entire crow of people yell, "Awwwww.....!" I honestly saw a few people with their cups taped to their hand.

The goal of the night, well of course have a good time. But secondly, taste a beer from every state represented. Luckily, the booths were organized by region. The only states I missed, were the Dakota's and New Hampshire. My favorite of the night, Allagash White from Allagash Brewery in Portland, Maine. The traditional Belgian style ale was crisp and refreshing especially among so many darks. Yes, I'm learning to like the darks. My dark pick just happened to have coffee flavor, Coffee Bend from Surly Brewing Co. in Minnesota, a Bronze winner.

All in all, I would put this beer fest on your must do list. See ya next year!

www.greatamericanbeerfestival.com