Medina Beerfest - Ohio's Top Craft Breweries Celebrate at a Beloved Summer Tradition

Exploring the Medina Beerfest

The Medina Beerfest is an annual craft beer festival held in Medina, Ohio that celebrates local breweries and brings the community together around a love of quality beer. With a scenic location and a rotating cast of Ohio's top breweries, it's an event not to miss for craft beer lovers.

When and Where the Fest is Held

The Medina Beerfest takes place each summer, typically in late July, at the Castle Noel venue. Castle Noel offers both indoor and outdoor space to accommodate the crowds, as well as plenty of parking. The festival runs from 1 pm to 5 pm so attendees can sample beers from dozens of breweries in the afternoon and evening.

Breweries and Beers Available

Over 60 Ohio breweries participate in the Medina Beerfest each year, bringing a huge variety of beer styles and unique brews. The list includes both local Northeast Ohio breweries like Akronym and Thirsty Dog alongside other top names in Ohio craft beer such as Jackie O's and Fat Head's. Belgian-style ales, hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, and tart sours are just some of the options to taste.

Food Truck Fare

In addition to beer, the Medina Beerfest also brings in an assortment of food trucks so attendees can pair top craft beers with tasty snacks and meals. Trucks often include fan favorites like gourmet hot dogs, tacos, pizza, and more. There are vegetarian options available as well.

The Vibrant Craft Beer Culture

Part of what makes events like the Medina Beerfest so lively is the passionate craft beer culture, especially throughout Northeast Ohio. As the national expansion of microbreweries continues, Ohio has carved out a reputation for quality with destinations like Akron leading the way.

Local Breweries to Know

Akronym Brewing itself perfectly represents Ohio’s standout craft beer scene. Founded in 2016 in Akron, it has quickly become a local favorite thanks to a welcoming taproom and beers that run the gamut from hoppy to malty to fruity. Their Public House location in Medina also brings their brews closer to the Beerfest venue. Thirsty Dog, Masthead, Missing Mountain, and Wadsworth Brewing are some other Northeast Ohio microbreweries to look for at the festival or to visit year-round.

The Ever-Growing Variety of Craft Beer

One reason Ohio shines when it comes to craft beer is the commitment to creativity and experimentation at breweries across the state. Brewers are constantly developing new recipes featuring unique ingredient combinations and barrel-aging techniques. Fruit additions like blood orange or guava create tart, refreshing beers while hearty stouts pick up flavors of coffee and chocolate when aged in bourbon barrels. This innovation ensures there are always new flavors to try at events like the Medina Beerfest.

How to Make the Most of the Fest

From the variety of beers available to the party-like atmosphere, the Medina Beerfest encapsulates the mosaic of flavors and community camaraderie possible in the craft beer world. Use these tips to make sure your festival experience is a memorable one.

Come with Friends

Enjoying flights of different beers and food truck snacks is always better with friends in tow. Split up to cover more ground sampling beers then reconvene to discuss favorites. It’s also helpful for sampling strategy and transportation.

Pace Yourself

With over 60 breweries in attendance, the Medina Beerfest beer list is overwhelmingly extensive. Take it slow and steady to truly savor each new beer, chatting with the passionate brewers and brand ambassadors behind the taps. Palate fatigue is real, so don’t rush through tasting.

Ask Questions and Explore Styles

Festivals like this are the perfect opportunity to expand your craft beer knowledge. Inquire about brewing processes, beer styles, and flavor combinations that catch your interest. Branch out from the usual to expand your palate and discover new go-to varieties of beers.

Ohio is a powerhouse when it comes to craft beer today, and the Medina Beerfest celebrates that creative spirit by bringing Northeast Ohio’s top breweries together. With its calm outdoor setting and vibrant atmosphere, it’s a beloved summer tradition for good reason and a must-visit destination for beer lovers. So raise a glass to Ohio’s brewing excellence at Medina!