Hey all, I'm from Chicagoland and I will be in town during the Casey Brewing Release saturday Feb 7th. I was just wondering if someone could get me a quick rundown. I'm interested in knowing what time people start lining up, how long does the line take, can you drink in line, etc. I tried finding some info on here but could not really find much. This will be a vacation for me and not really a beercation, so i do not want to be spending half the day in a line. If someone can give me some details I would be forever grateful! Maybe will even through you some zombie dust . Cheers dmb2890
Id only plan to be there early if you want a Plum Fruit Stand Magnum. Other than that, there will probably be plenty of beer to go available all day. The dry hopped saison being poured may go quick. Basically, if you don't want a magnum just show up whenever and you won't have to stand in any line. There is no bottle sharing in line or on the premises. Other than that, if you're driving up from denver, just plan on 3-4 hours up and the same coming back depending on weather and traffic. It's ski season so the returm drive will be slow no matter what. If the weather is bad, and you're not used to driving In high country snow and wind, try and catch a ride. It's a beautiful drive so being a passenger is the best way to go. Dress warm and enjoy.
The last time I was up there people were in line already by 8am, about 15-20 people. Line was a little slow because people were paying for their extended family memberships, it's closed now so shouldn't be an issue. We were advised by Troy that no beer can be consumed in line as their license doesn't cover it.
I was up in January. The people who wanted the limited stuff were there early. We left Denver around 5 AM and got there sometime between 7:30 and 8. There were 2 or 3 others there before 9. Most people arrived between 10 and 11. I was there in November and January felt smaller. This may be because Extended Family members can have other members bring their stuff back, because the limited stuff was so limited, because ski traffic sucks (took us around 5 hours to drive back, leaving @ noon), or just because it was close to the holidays.
Of course, I'm not trying to predict the February turnout. I think this is the first opportunity for a fruit stand magnum. If you want one, it's wise to arrive early.
I'll be in Keystone already with the family. Devising a way to sneak out early...so much easier than coming from the springs...can't miss this opportunity. Dat plum magnum!
