BeerAdvocate Fests FAQ

Have a question about a BeerAdvocate (BA) fest? We probably have the answer. Check out the following frequently asked questions and resources.

By purchasing fest tickets, or attending the fest, you agree to any and all rules, restrictions, and forfeit any claims of liability as outlined below or as contained in any and all related fest materials.

This FAQ may be updated without notice, so please check back prior to attending the fest.

GENERAL

How many beer fests has BeerAdvocate hosted?
Read: About BeerAdvocate Fests

When's the next BeerAdvocate Fest?
We're currently exploring 2023.

What's the vaccination and mask policy for your fest?
We'll be following state and local vaccination and mask mandates. At this time, there are no vaccination or mask mandates. That said, should mandates change BeerAdvocate reserves the right to amend this requirement in accordance with state and local law.

What measures are being taken to ensure your fests are safe and inclusive space for everyone?
The fest team has developed a Festival Code of Conduct that all attendees, breweries and participations are required to agree to. In addition, we have partnered with #NotMe to provide an anonymous mobile app reporting platform for misconduct that will be monitored at all times during the festival and after. To compliment that, the festival management staff has all participated in Safe Bars training providing the team the tools and actions to take as an active bystander to misconduct, as well as, methods to de-escalate unsafe or discriminatory scenarios.

TICKETS

For Ticketsauce help: https://ticketsauce.com/contact/

Do I have to bring a printed ticket to the event?
You can or bring a mobile ticket so we can scan it.

The name on my ticket doesn't match the actual attendee. Is that okay?
Yes, so long as the ticket is valid when scanned at the fest.

Can you tell me if a ticket is valid before the fest?
No, which is why you should use great caution if buying from a reseller.

What if I bought my ticket from a reseller and need ticket help?
We can't help you, or guarantee entry, if you buy from a reseller. You've been warned.

What's included with the ticket price?
Please refer to the fest page.

Can I get a refund?
Attendees should purchase tickets with the understanding that state and local regulations related to Covid–19 may change and that BeerAdvocate may be required to change policies to comply. Therefore, a change in the vaccination and mask requirement will not warrant a refund. Should BeerAdvocate cancel the festival for any reason, ticket holders will be refunded. Tickets are transferable to friends or family members. BeerAdvocate is not responsible for lost, stolen, or forgotten wristbands or lanyards, or for the replacement of wristbands/lanyards for any reason. All breweries advertised have confirmed their appearance at the fest; however, breweries are subject to change without notice. There will be no refunds or exchanges resulting from the failure of any brewery to appear at the festival.

What if I can't attend?
If you are unable to attend the festival, you may transfer your mobile tickets to family or friends by emailing it to them directly. Names on tickets do not need to match names on IDs.

Can I transfer/switch my ticket to another session or event?
No, all sales are final.

Do you offer discounted pricing for bulk tickets?
No, we don't.

Can I apply a promotional code to tickets that I've already purchased or get a partial refund?
Promo codes (if any) may only be applied at the time of purchase, and we don't offer partial refunds.

SESSIONS & TIMES

What are the fest times?
Please refer to the fest page.

Note: Your ticket doesn't guarantee entry exactly when doors open, but we'll do our best to get attendees in the venue as quickly as possible. Those looking to get in early should queue up early.

When is the last beer poured?
Last call is 15 minutes before the end of each session.

Are there any differences between sessions?
For the most part the beer line-ups will be the same, however, all beers are subject to change and availability.

IDENTIFICATION

Are there ID requirements or an age limit to enter the event?
21+ with valid ID. No minors. No exceptions.

Are passports acceptable?
Yes.

Is a temporary license/ID acceptable?
Generally, however, security will review and have the final say.

ENTRY LINE

• If you have a disability, please alert one of our line crew volunteers or security at the front of the line so we can make your wait a more comfortable one.
• Dress for the weather if you plan on waiting in line early.
  
• Please listen to our line crew and security to ensure the line is kept tight.
• We'll be pre-scanning early to ensure that we get you in quick. Have your tickets and IDs ready when you see us coming with scanners in hand.

DESIGNATED DRIVERS

Do you offer a Designated Driver ticket/program?
We don't and recommend that all fest attendees plan accordingly, drink in moderation, and use public transportation to get to your final destination safely.

CHILDREN

Are children allowed?
No. All attendees must be 21+ with a valid ID. No exceptions.

HOTEL ACCOMODATIONS

Do you have any hotel discounts or codes?
Do you have recommend a hotel?
We don't.

COAT & BAG CHECK

Will there be a coat or bag check?
No; unless otherwise noted on the fest page.

BEERS & BREWERS

When will the beers be listed?
We typically begin listing beers one month before the fest with numerous updates leading up to the fest.

Are the beers the same for each session?
That's the goal, however, all beers are subject to change and availability.

Do brewers run out of beer?
It depends on the popularity and quantity brought by the brewer, but brewers are advised to ration beers for each session. Regardless, there are plenty of other beers to try.

Why don't brewers bring enough for everyone at each session?
That would be impossible and result in too much beer and wasted beer.

Do you have a floor plan listing where the brewers will be?
Yes. We'll post one in the forums prior to the fest, and our official fest guide will have a map with a list of brewers and their booth numbers. The guide will be available at the fest, for free and while supplies last.

Disclaimers:

• All booths will be manned by brewery staff.
• The beer lineup is more or less the same for all three sessions, however, all beers are subject to change and availability.
• Pours are 2 ounces (or less). Please consume with respect.
• Please be advised that some of the beers may contain allergens. Ask before you drink.

PLASTIC CUPS?!

Yes. We use high-quality drinkware from Govino, which doesn't impact beer aroma or flavor.

TWO-OUNCE POURS?!

Yes. As dictated by many states and venues. Otherwise that's just how we roll.

FOOD VENDORS & NON-ALCOHOLIC DRINKS

Will there be food at the fest?
While it's not the focus of the event, there will be food available for purchase.

Will there be non-alcoholic drinks?
Some vendors may opt to sell water and soft drinks, otherwise there are portable water coolers positioned throughout the venue for rinsing and drinking.

Do vendors accept cash or cards?
Typically both, but bring some cash just in case.

Can I bring my own food or beverage?
Outside food items and beverages are prohibited. You may be asked to discard these items prior to admission.

RESTROOMS

Where are the restrooms?
Restrooms are typically noted in the fest guide. Restrooms close 15 minutes before the end of each session.

SMOKING

Is smoking allowed?
No. It's illegal to smoke in the venue. Offenders may be asked to leave.

Is vaping allowed?
No.

INTOXICATION

We promote responsible beer tastings to ensure an enjoyable and safe time for all guests. Any guest who is intoxicated prior to the fest will be denied entry without a refund. Any guest found to be intoxicated and causing issues during the fest may be asked to leave, or escorted from the fest without a refund. Additional consequences may also occur. Any guest who witnesses intoxicated behavior should report the incident to security or fest staff.

PROHIBITED ITEMS
The following items may not be brought into the venue or fest line:

• Outside alcohol
• Outside food/beverage
• Weapons
• Illegal drugs
• Chemicals
• Fireworks
• Backpacks, suitcases, or other large bags
• Any other items as determined by event management

All items are subject to search upon entering the venue.

Event management reserves the right to handle each occurrence on a case by case basis. Depending on the item, a guest may be asked to remove or dispose of the item, ejected from the venue, or subjected to questioning by law enforcement.

INDUSTRY & TRADE

Do you offer trade passes for the industry?
We don't.

MARKETING, SOLICITING & SPONSORSHIP

Can I distribute info or products at your fest?
No. Any form of soliciting will result in your immediate removal from the fest and disposal of any related materials.

MEDIA

Can I get a media/press pass?
We're not accepting requests at this time.

VOLUNTEERING

Where can I volunteer or find more information on volunteering?
We no longer use volunteers at our festivals.

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?
Email: festivals@beeradvocate.com