The Festival US kicks off this evening in Portland

I can’t believe its June 21st already, the first day of summer, but more notably the first session of The Festival US kicks off at 6:30pm. Every time I see the image for the Festival I keep thinking to myself that the beer stein shaped lighthouse throwing an array of beams in different directions is reminiscent of the Bat Signal, only it’s a Beer Signal and instead of a caped crusader the call has been answered by some of the best brewers from around the world.

 I have my ticket to ride, I’ll be on a bus bright and early on Saturday morning heading to Portland, I have my passes to both Saturday sessions of The Festival and a completely clear mind. I haven’t bothered to search for a beer list, I have no agenda, I have no plan of attack. The Shelton Brothers and 12% Imports have sent out the Beer Signal and assembled an incredible list of breweries and to over-think the event would be pointless; it’s going to be awesome.

 Good luck to the beer hunters attending the event, I hope you bag the big one and can add it to your Untappd trophy case, just remember to stop and soak in the event at some point during your hunt, remember that not only are you having great beer but your standing face to face with the people who brewed the beer, that doesn’t happen every day. Take advantage of the food trucks at some point, looks like a great selection and it’s the perfect place to talk to people; maybe they’ll even tell you where to find something you’re hunting for.

 If you see me cruising around the Saturday sessions stop and say Hi, if I don’t see you, be safe and enjoy yourself.

 Cheers!

 Chaddah

Chad Lothian

About Chad Lothian

Chad Lothian lives in Old Town, Maine. He is a craft beer enthusiast and homebrewer. Chad has travelled to brewpubs, breweries and brewfests all over New England.