[REVISION HISTORY]

Great American Beer Festival 2026

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What changed

2026-10-15 00:16 UTC → 2026-10-16 17:33 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The 2026 Great American Beer Festival (GABF) transitioned to a new format, moving from the traditional convention center to an outdoor venue at the Levitt Pavilion in Denver. Organizers, led by the Brewers Association, described the shift as an attempt to return to the festival’s roots and create a “Colorado lifestyle event,” despite community concerns regarding the outdoor setting and terrain. Due to declining attendance, the multi-day event was reduced from three days to two. The competition featured 7,267 entries across more than 100 style categories from 1,300 American breweries and cideries, evaluated by a panel of 225 certified judges. Following the event, the Brewers Association announced the medal ~~winners from a competition involving 7,267 beer and cider entries evaluated by more than 200 judges from 49 states.~~ winners. A total of 243 breweries and cideries earned 336 medals. Competition director Chris Williams noted a trend toward lager styles, such as Marzen, Festbier, and German Pilsner, even as highly-hopped beers remained the most entered categories. Colorado breweries showed strong performance, securing 41 medals—including 16 gold, 12 silver, and 13 bronze—and earning a brewery of the year award. ~~Regional~~ San Diego breweries also saw significant success, securing 13 medals and earning a ‘Best Brewery’ distinction. Other regional winners included Michigan breweries such as Mothfire Brewing Co., Bearded Lamb Brewing Co., and Founders Brewing Co., as well as several award recipients from Texas, California, ~~Arizona,~~ and ~~San Diego.~~ Arizona. Additionally, Firestone Walker Brewing Company earned three medals during its 30th anniversary year.

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