Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about SF Beer Week
CRAFT BEER FAN FAQs
What is SF Beer Week?
Beer "Weeks" are ten days spanning two weekends when craft beer community members come together to share experiences. Events include special releases, menu pairings, collaborations, seasonal offerings, promotions, and activities ranging from music to fitness.
What exactly is happening and when?
Activities are submitted by participating breweries, bars, restaurants, and others, and posted about a month in advance. Key dates are February 20 to March 1. The Bay Area Brewers Guild is holding SFBW Fest on Saturday, Feb. 21.
How can I make the most of SF Beer Week?
Planning is important. The website offers tools to favorite events, create itineraries, filter by criteria, and look up venue-specific happenings.
What beers should I expect?
Expect diverse offerings including rare, barrel-aged, experimental, new releases, and seasonal beers. Many collaboration beers are released specifically for SF Beer Week.
What does it cost?
There's no single event ticket. Each listing has its own pricing - many are "pay as you go," while some require admission fees or advance reservations.
Where do I get tickets for events?
Ticket purchase instructions or links should be included within each event listing.
Will there be an Opening Gala this year?
No traditional Opening Gala. Instead, SFBW Fest will be held on Saturday, Feb. 21.
What if I have questions about an event?
Contact the party responsible for the specific listing.
Are children or dogs allowed at SF Beer Week events?
Policies vary by venue. Contact individual venues directly for specific details.
What are my transportation options?
Recommended to use ride-sharing, carpooling with a designated driver, or public transportation. Resources like SF Travel's transportation guide and Beer by BART are suggested.
We had a [great, bad, so-so, zany] time at an event. Who can we [thank, provide feedback to]?
Contact the specific event host. General feedback can be sent through the website's contact page.
Why can't I find a specific venue or event?
Event listings are updated regularly as venues finalize their programming. If you can't find a specific venue or event, they may not have registered yet or their events may not be finalized. Try searching again closer to the event dates.
EVENT HOST FAQs
Who can submit events to SF Beer Week?
Only licensed parties can submit events, including bars, restaurants, and breweries. You must be licensed to serve alcohol or have proper permits. Independent craft breweries must be central to any listing, and all submissions are subject to review and approval.
What are the submission deadlines?
Event submissions are expected to close by EOD Wednesday, February 18. Submitting early provides greater marketing exposure and better positioning in our promotional materials.
What types of events can I submit?
We welcome diverse activities including beer releases, festivals, tasting parties, educational sessions, food pairings, and collaborative events. There are two listing types: specific events or ongoing promotions. All events must comply with California Alcoholic Beverage Control regulations.
What are the key restrictions for hosts?
Distribution of materials at an SF Beer Week event is restricted to authorized parties. Listings may be edited for consistency and compliance. Unauthorized promotion of SF Beer Week is prohibited. All events must feature independent craft breweries as central participants.
What's the submission and approval process?
Processing can take up to a week after submission. Material changes after approval are limited, so ensure your details are accurate. All submissions are subject to review and approval by the organizing committee.
How should I prepare for hosting an event?
Review the Listing Guidelines thoroughly. Collaborate with breweries and distributors early in the planning process. Consider sponsorship opportunities for additional exposure. Be creative and collaborative in developing unique craft beer experiences.
Can I get help with my event submission?
Yes! Contact the organizers with specific questions about your submission. We're here to help you create successful events that celebrate craft beer and bring the community together.