Should we host more virtual beer fests?

I like the focus on a (relatively) small number of beers, as contrasted with tasting tiny samples of a couple of dozen things.

I'd like to see more critical discussion - the hosts can't talk trash about the beers, even when they're kind of marginal - maybe pull a few attendees into the video.

 

Voted "Yes"! Please keep doing them! My wife and I have done all three virtual fests via Beer Advocate this year (plus some ones from other sites). We really like getting to learn more about the beer from people that actually work at the brewery. It's a nice experience that you don't get at a lot of at in person fests. The virtual fests provide a nice focus on 12 beers instead of trying 30-40 at in person ones that end up blending together. Also the virtual fests are nice since they're more relaxing because you can chill on the couch and don't have to worry about getting home afterwards. Lastly, the pandemic is still going on, so the virtual fests provides a nice escape. Regardless, we'd like to see the virtual fests continue indefinitely. We're hoping for a porter/stout virtual fest during the winter.

 

Can you change the laws in Arkansas so I can participate? I'd love to try one, but as long as I live here, I'm out. (But I didn't vote because my opinion doesn't matter since I can't participate.)

 

Pls pls continue to do virtual fests! Given all the s*it going on in the world with lots of ICUs taken up, difficulty w traveling, safety…access to talking w you all and learning from the brewers themselves—would ask that u all consider doing this again!! These have been amazing!!

 

I voted yes just because, why not? It's fun for those who are willing and able to participate.

 

God no. Let’s end all things virtual. I can’t handle another zoom work call or school zoom. Last thing I want to do is drink beer in this forum.

 

No interest in real life fests, hate the crowds, small pours and the feel of the whole thing. Rather have a few good beers with friends.

Virtual I have no interest in either. Would never participate, only drink on
my own terms not when I’m supposed to drink a specific beer. I won’t pay the cost of the box either.

I much prefer the “organized” style tastings but have had to work when most were going on.

Off to work

Enjoy

 

I'm not into crowded actual beer fests full of strangers, and see no point in virtual beer fests, although I respect others who may. For me, having some drinks with a few friends in person is what really appeals to me. I didn't like voting "No" because I'm not against it, but I saw no option for "Not interested".

 

Yes! I really enjoyed listening to the conversations and q&a with the brewers/breweries. It is an experience that most likely would not occur as frequently at an in-person fest. Listening to the stories and depth of knowledge about the beers was fascinating. The beer was fantastic as well.

 

I voted yes, and I'll keep the 'ineligible state' subject alive here to help it get noticed. If a beer club has found a way to send beer to me, then it's possible to get it done.

I was able to participate in Lagerfest by using a 'new good friend' in a neighboring state, but that drives up the time expended and travel cost for me to participate, as well as the time and effort for my friend. Thanks again, @FBarber .

 

From the response I see here, of course you should. A no vote from me is irrelevant because I'm not interested but if you and BA's enjoy it then it's a no brainer.

 

I’m going to Naperville Beer Fest this weekend if anyone is going to be there.

I’m also fully vaccinated.

For the people who are not fully vaccinated or afraid to go out. I’d say the virtual fest are probably a good idea.

 

Todd-- I'm in for any virtual tasting you have. I'm 3 for 3. As good as in person.

 

I voted yes. I travel *alot* for beer. But there are folks who either cannot travel, are not into the fest scene, or life precludes making the trip. I believe the virtual fests make the community closer.

I also know that having done a couple BA virtual fests, I share the experience with friends. So folks who are not on BA, don't know these breweries, or never do beer events get to experience the fun of out of market distros. The office I work out has its fill of BA sampler glasses, and the participating breweries have gotten some buzz beyond even the BA community. That alone is a reason to keep the momentum. And I'll gladly support future events.

 

The other thing to keep in mind is the omnichannel marketing of a virtual fest. The podcasts are fun ( and likely will be even better as everyone gets accustomed to this format). When you go to an in-person event, there are some awesome shared experiences. But waiting on line for pours\bathrooms\entry to event is stuff I can live without. I think offering both is ideal, with podcast interviews at the event. But if brewers find a benefit in participating, Halftime will ship it, and BA will bolt it together... I think enough of us will pony up money to make it worth organizing

 

I had my brother come over for session 2 yesterday and he loved it, especially seeing the interviews with the brewers about their beer. It was also fun for us because we continued to hang out afterwards. On his way out this morning he made a point to say that he'd be down for another one if it were to happen, so you could count us in.