Reader: The Craft-Beer Industry Is Changing, and Not for the Better

The biggest beer festival in America is continuing to adapt to a post-pandemic world and now, the Great American Beer Festival is moving outdoors and cutting back days. The 2026 fest, slated for October 10-11, is moving from the Colorado Convention Center in downtown Denver to Levitt Pavilion in southwest Denver.

The Brewers’ Association’s signature event was founded in Boulder in 1982, moved to Denver in 1984, and has been held at the Colorado Convention Center since 2000. But a fest that used to sell out in minutes actually had tickets available last year. Will the move outdoors help bring it back? Or is this just another sign that the craft-beer industry is awash in challenges?

In their comments on the Westword Facebook post of the news, some readers have trouble swallowing the new location. Says Joel:

Levitt is a great for a concert. In the summer. But for a beer festival in the fall?

Counters Monolith Brewing:

It’s gonna be awesome…

Responds Christopher:

Colorado weather is way too unpredictable to host this outside in mid-October. Plus, the kegs are going to roll downhill…

Adds Brooke:

I thought this! Also, there is no public transportation and ride shares are always a disaster from there.

Suggests Saul:

Another sign that the great American Beer Festival isn’t what it used to be. The whole industry is changing, and not for the better.

Concludes Lance:

Such a dumb idea. GABF dies after this year.

Say it ain’t so! What do you think of the GABF move? When did you last attend the festival? Post a comment or share your thoughts at editorial@westword.com.