August 7, 2026 @ 4:00 pm - 10:00 pm
The biggest beer weekend in Madison starts Friday night…and we’re pouring one beer you literally cannot have had in this city before.
North Pillar Brewing Co. (Waukesha) is making its Madison debut in our cooler and tap lines.
Also visiting? Our friends at Drekker Brewing (Fargo, ND — yes, the fever-dream can art people) and Old Irving Brewing (Chicago).
All three in one room, the night before Great Taste of the Midwest.
What’s going down:
🍺 Brewery reps in the house from all three — ask them anything, they’re nicer than their beer names suggest
🍺 Rare pours we’ve been sitting on for exactly this occasion
🍺 A bit of a bottle share — we’ll crack a few from the cellar, and if you’ve got something special gathering dust, Friday’s the night it earns its keep. Bring it!
Got a Great Taste ticket? Warm up the palate and plan your Saturday route with people who know the grounds.
Struck out in the lottery? This is your mini Great Taste … the out-of-state beer came to you, no lanyard required.
No tickets, no cover, no lines. Just show up thirsty.
Friday, August 7 · Garth’s Brew Bar opens at 4 p.m.
Back to events