From professional hockey to boutique shopping, Tampa is a Florida destination that offers something for everyone. The third largest city in the state is full of world-class attractions such as Busch Gardens, Tampa Museum of Art, and Tampa Bay History Center. Visitors need to check out the Tampa Riverwalk, which features beautiful views of the city, plus a variety of shops and restaurants for all tastes.
The FBG Craft Beer Festival is one of the top winter craft beer showcases in the region, and it will take place March 3 at Cotanchobee Park. This year’s edition will feature more than 60 craft breweries from across Florida. Attendees will have access to an unlimited sampling of more than 200 different craft beers, and paid entry includes a commemorative tasting glass. Each brewery will have a tent staffed by a brewery representative, and in some cases, the brewery will send the actual brewer to educate people about their beers. Those in search of food will find a variety of favorite local food trucks serving pizzas, chicken wings, tacos, and more. VIP access is available for purchase, and it includes early entry to the event. The event is a fundraiser for the Florida Brewers Guild, which is committed to preserving the rights of craft breweries across Florida. We interviewed Event Director, Sean Nordquist, to learn more about this comprehensive craft beer bash.
RAL: How many annual participants do you draw?
SN: We expect up to 2,000 people.
RAL: What demographic does your event attract?
SN: This event is for beer drinkers (21 and up only). It’s ideal for anyone who enjoys good beer, is interested in learning more about craft beer, or just likes to have a good time.
RAL: What makes this event unique?
SN: This is a Florida Brewers Guild event including 100% Florida craft breweries. You will get beers from all over the state, many of which are unique offerings.
RAL: Take me through a day at the event. What can I expect as an attendee?
SN: We have an unlimited sampling of over 60 craft breweries. Brewery representatives staff all tents, and sometimes even the brewers themselves are in attendance.
RAL: What will attendees encounter for dining options?
SN: There will be six food trucks selling a variety of meals and snacks.
RAL: Tell us about the overall atmosphere.
SN It’s fun and friendly. Beer lovers are fun people that love to share and talk about what they have tried and brews that they liked.
RAL: What can an attendee expect to find for local lodging?
SN: There are many hotels in the Channelside area and all around Tampa Bay.
RAL: Does this drive business to your local economy?
SN: Yes, this event is a kick-off to Tampa Bay Beer Week, a celebration of all things beer in the Bay Area. Attendees come from not just around the area and state, but the country and world to participate. People spend money at local hotels, restaurants, attractions, and more while visiting.
RAL: Does the event support a particular cause in the community?
SN: The Florida Brewers Guild is a registered Florida nonprofit trade association committed to preserving the rights of craft brewers throughout the state.
RAL: Why should people come to your event?
SN: This event is one of the longest running beer festivals in the state, and the only one to feature Florida craft breweries exclusively.
For more information about the FBG Craft Beer Festival, please visit the event website.