How early should I arrive at GABF

I enjoy standing in the line, that is where I do my homework. The line moves quickly too.

 

I've been there about an hour early in the past. It's nice because if you're paying attention, you can get a program and begin to scout out any "must-haves" before you're struck by the awe that is 2200 beers.

The only other piece of advice I have, even though you didn't ask for it - try things you've never heard of. It's easy to get lost in trying all the highest rated and hyped beers, many of which show their faces at GABF, but there's a TON of great beers that are overlooked.

 

These are both great points. One of the beauties of going on Saturday is you get to hear what everyone's talking about after the first two sessions, like Destihl last year. I know a lot of people who only went Thursday to make sure they got stuff before it ran out for later sessions (protip: almost nothing does), and they kept their head buried in the sand from trying new things and were super disappointed they didn't try the Destihl stuff. Bottom line, if it sounds interesting, try it. And take breaks to talk to brewers from breweries you haven't heard of.

 

If you have "members Entrance" on your ticket then you enter on 14th St near the big blue bear. They said not before 4:45pm. Not all AHA sale tickets are "members entrance"

I got an email from them this morning giving me the details. Email was sent to people who actually got "members entrance" tickets.

 

and for public reference- Members Entrance tickets will say "Members Entrance" under the section and seat. If it says "General Admission" there, you need to get in line, even if your ticket says "Member" in the top right.

 

Look for me there, I'll be pouring it on Thursday. (Unless somebody called dips months ago)

 

I will see you in line sir. 2nd year in a row getting members entrance tickets for Thursday. I was scared I wasn't going to get them with the whole ticket master debacle.

As for the general entrance line, you will be waiting either way like everyone has said above. Me personally, I would rather have a good meal and show up a little late with a full stomach and get in the fest in less than 5 minutes.

If you plan on showing up anytime between 5:15-5:45 just start walking around the other side of the convention center. Our first year we had to walk practically around the convention center to find the end of the line.

 

Pacing yourself that day sounds like poor planning too.

 

Looks like I wasn't one of the first 2,000 members to buy. Damn. My ticket says GA.

 

This will be my first experience with the "members" line. Since they're telling people not to line-up, I guess that changes my plans a bit.

 

Can you bring one of those small drawsack backpacks in to carry food?

 

Agree with the points mentioned above. As for the restrooms, head to the back dock and hit the port-a-potties. It'll easily save you 15 minutes.

 

They say no backpacks, see prohibited items http://www.greatamericanbeerfestival.com/about/faq/

 

In years passed I've always walked over Thursday to pick up my will call tickets and pick up a program. With the electronic tickets this year does anyone know if we can still head over to the convention center and pick up a program?

 

In years past they are always handing them out while I've waited in line. Can't see how it would be any different this year.

Don't know how early you could get one though.

 

Just walked over and picked up my program. Virtually no line at 3pm, lol.

 

Leaving now

 

A bit of a recap:

Volunteer line was crazy. They changed up some things, and not for the better (from my viewpoint anyway). Brewers were at the tables for the first hour. Some stayed the whole time and poured, nudging us out of the way (so we could go elsewhere).

Good night for beer tasting. Crowd wasn't, well, crowded. A few long lines at breweries, but for the most part it was smooth sailing. Would have loved to sit in on the Food Pavilion thingy, though.

I didn't hear of any complaints from attendees. KBS blew out in about 1hr, but they tapped their 2nd keg a bit later. Missed Black Tuesday...again.

Didn't notice many "Ooohhs" and dropped cups until last call.

Overall a solid night of beer.

 

Also noticed the crowd wasn't being so obnoxious about cup drops. I hope the everyone grew out of this.