How to Save on Craft Beer in Fort Worth

Fort Worth has emerged as one of the most vibrant craft beer destinations in Texas, boasting over 70 breweries within its city limits and surrounding metro area. From the historic Stockyards district to the trendy cultural corridors of Near Southside and West 7th, the city’s beer scene is thriving—with innovative brewers pushing boundaries in flavor, technique, and community engagement. But with this growth comes a price: craft beer, while rewarding, can quickly add up. Whether you’re a casual sipper or a dedicated beer enthusiast, learning how to save on craft beer in Fort Worth isn’t just about cutting costs—it’s about maximizing value, discovering hidden gems, and enjoying the culture without overspending.

This guide is designed for locals and visitors alike who want to experience Fort Worth’s rich beer landscape without draining their wallet. You’ll learn practical, actionable strategies—from loyalty programs and happy hours to off-peak visits and bulk purchasing—that help you enjoy premium brews at lower prices. We’ll also explore local events, seasonal releases, and community-driven initiatives that offer exceptional value. By the end, you’ll have a comprehensive toolkit to drink better, more often, and for less.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Join Brewery Loyalty and Rewards Programs

Most Fort Worth breweries have implemented loyalty programs that reward repeat customers with discounts, free pours, merchandise, or exclusive access. These aren’t gimmicks—they’re built into the business model to foster community and retention. Start by signing up at your favorite local taprooms. Many offer instant perks upon registration, such as a free flight or 10% off your first purchase.

For example, Peticolas Brewing Company offers a “Peticolas Perks” program where members earn points for every dollar spent, redeemable for beer, merchandise, or event tickets. Similarly, Rahr & Sons Brewing Company gives members early access to limited releases and birthday rewards. Even smaller operations like Four Corners Brewery and Deep Ellum Brewing (Fort Worth location) have digital punch cards accessible via their websites or mobile apps.

Pro tip: Consolidate your loyalty sign-ups. Don’t just join one—join three to five breweries you visit regularly. Over time, these small savings compound. A 10% discount on a $12 four-pack adds up to $60 saved over five visits. Multiply that across multiple breweries, and you’re looking at hundreds of dollars annually.

2. Visit During Off-Peak Hours

Many Fort Worth breweries offer discounted pricing during slower hours to encourage foot traffic. These “happy hour” or “early bird” specials aren’t always advertised on social media, so ask directly. Common off-peak windows include:

• Monday through Thursday, 3–6 PM
• Early Sunday afternoons (before 4 PM)
• Weekdays right after lunch (12–2 PM)

For instance, cervecería-style spots like Peticolas and Seven Points Brewing often offer $1 off pints during these windows. Some breweries, like The Rustic and Four Corners, even run “Buy One, Get One Half Off” deals on select beers during slow periods. Even better, some taprooms waive the $5–$10 fee for flight tastings if you visit before 5 PM on weekdays.

Timing your visits strategically not only saves money—it enhances the experience. You’ll avoid crowds, get more attention from staff, and have a better chance of trying rare or rotating taps before they sell out.

3. Attend Brewery Events and Tasting Nights

Fort Worth breweries host regular events that offer premium beer experiences at a fraction of the retail cost. These include:

• Beer Release Parties: Often free to attend, with discounted or complimentary pours of new releases. Examples include Peticolas’ “Velvet Hammer” launch or Rahr’s “Dark Arts” stout debuts.
• Monthly Tasting Nights: Breweries like Second Rodeo Brewing Co. and The Rustic host $15–$25 tasting flights that include 6–8 beers, food pairings, and brewery tours. That’s often less than buying those same beers individually.
• Collaboration Events: Local breweries frequently partner with restaurants or food trucks to host themed nights. These events often include beer-and-food combos at bundled prices.

Sign up for brewery newsletters or follow them on Instagram to get advance notice. Many events sell out quickly, but early registrants often receive promo codes for additional discounts. Some even offer “bring a friend” deals where the second person gets in free.

4. Buy Beer in Bulk or Direct from the Brewery

Purchasing beer directly from the brewery—especially in growlers, crowlers, or 6-packs—is almost always cheaper than buying the same beer at a grocery store or liquor shop. Why? Retailers add markup to cover overhead, shelf space, and distribution. Breweries sell at or near cost to move product and build loyalty.

Look for:

• Growler Fills: Typically $10–$14 for a 64 oz fill, compared to $16–$20 for a 6-pack in stores.
• Crowler Cans: 32 oz aluminum cans filled on-site—usually $8–$10, ideal for take-home convenience.
• Case Deals: Many breweries offer 10–20% off when you buy a full case (24 cans or bottles) of a regular beer. Peticolas, for example, frequently runs “Case of the Month” promotions.
• Beer Club Memberships: Some breweries, like Deep Ellum and Four Corners, offer monthly beer clubs that deliver curated selections at discounted rates. These often include free shipping or pickup discounts.

Pro tip: Bring your own growler. Many breweries offer a $1–$2 discount if you bring a clean, sanitized vessel. This reduces waste and saves you money over time.

5. Use Local Beer Apps and Digital Platforms

Several apps and websites are tailored to Fort Worth beer lovers and offer real-time deals, location-based discounts, and exclusive coupons. The most valuable include:

• Untappd: The most popular beer-check-in app. Many Fort Worth breweries offer digital badges or promo codes for users who check in at their taproom. For example, checking in three times in a month at Seven Points Brewing unlocks a free pint.
• BeerMenus: Shows live tap lists and often links to special offers. Use it to compare prices across breweries before you go.
• Local Fort Worth Beer Facebook Groups: Groups like “Fort Worth Craft Beer Lovers” and “Texas Beer Exchange” regularly post flash sales, leftover keg discounts, and “last call” deals on unsold beer.
• Yelp and Google Maps: Filter by “happy hour” or “deal” tags. Many breweries update their hours and promotions here in real time.

Set up notifications on these apps. A $5 discount on a flight or a free pint can appear as a push alert—often valid for just a few hours.

6. Shop at Local Grocery Stores and Convenience Chains with Beer Discounts

While buying directly from breweries is ideal, sometimes you need convenience. When shopping at local grocers, look for:

• H-E-B: Frequently runs “Texas Craft Beer Week” sales in spring and fall, with 20–30% off local brands. They also offer $1–$2 off when you buy 6+ cans of Fort Worth-brewed beer.
• Spec’s Wine, Spirits & Finer Foods: Offers “Texas Craft Tuesdays” with 15% off all Texas-made beer. They also have a loyalty program with points redeemable for discounts.
• 99 Cents Only Stores and Aldi: Surprisingly, these discount chains sometimes stock limited-edition Fort Worth brews at 30–40% below retail. Check their beer aisles weekly.

Also, keep an eye out for “end-of-life” beer markdowns. Many stores reduce prices on beer nearing its best-by date. While flavor may change slightly, most craft beers remain drinkable for weeks past the printed date—especially if stored cool.

7. Host or Join a Beer Swap

Beer swapping is a growing trend in Fort Worth’s beer community. It’s free, social, and highly effective for expanding your palate without spending money. Here’s how to get started:

• Join a local Facebook group like “Fort Worth Beer Swap” or “Texas Craft Beer Exchange.”
• Offer 2–3 unopened 6-packs or bottles of beer you don’t plan to drink.
• Request 2–3 different beers from other members.
• Arrange a meetup at a public park, brewery patio, or community center.

Many swaps include themed themes—“IPA Exchange,” “Sour Beer Swap,” or “Texas Only.” This ensures variety and prevents duplicates. Some groups even host quarterly swap parties with food and live music. You’ll walk away with 6–12 new beers for free, and you’ll meet fellow enthusiasts who can point you to hidden deals.

8. Take Advantage of Seasonal and Holiday Promotions

Fort Worth breweries release special beers tied to holidays, sports events, and local traditions—and they often price them to move inventory. Key opportunities include:

• Winter: Holiday stouts and spiced ales released in November often go on sale in December after the holidays. Look for “New Year Clearance” events.
• Spring: Texas Craft Beer Week (usually March) features discounts across 50+ local breweries. Many offer “$1 Tasting Flights” or “Buy One, Get One Free” deals.
• Summer: Light lagers and wheat beers are discounted as temperatures rise. Some breweries run “Beat the Heat” sales with 20% off sessionable beers.
• Football Season: During Cowboys games, many breweries near AT&T Stadium (like The Rustic and Peticolas) offer $2 off pints for fans wearing team gear.

Subscribe to brewery calendars and mark these dates. Set reminders two weeks in advance. The best deals are often announced only 48–72 hours before they begin.

9. Leverage Brewery-Partnered Food Trucks and Happy Hour Combos

Many Fort Worth breweries partner with food trucks to create “beer-and-bite” bundles. These are often priced lower than buying separately. Examples:

• At Rahr & Sons, a $12 “Burger & Pint” combo includes a house-made beef burger and a pint of their flagship Amber.
• At Four Corners, a $15 “Taco & Flight” deal includes three tacos and a 4-beer flight.
• At Second Rodeo, “Pizza & Pints” nights on Fridays offer $1 off every pint with any pizza purchase.

These combos are especially valuable because they eliminate the need to order food elsewhere. You get a full experience—beer, food, atmosphere—for less than the sum of its parts.

10. Volunteer or Work at a Brewery

One of the most underutilized ways to save on craft beer is to get involved. Many breweries hire part-time staff for taproom shifts, event setup, or packaging. Even if you’re not looking for a job, volunteering for events can earn you free beer credits.

For example, Peticolas and Deep Ellum occasionally recruit volunteers for canning days, beer festivals, or community cleanups. In return, volunteers receive:

• Free beer for the day
• Merchandise discounts
• Priority access to future releases

Check brewery websites under “Careers” or “Get Involved.” Even a few hours of volunteering per month can translate to dozens of free pints annually.

Best Practices

1. Prioritize Local Over National Brands

When you buy a Fort Worth-brewed beer, you’re supporting local jobs, sustainable practices, and community growth. But there’s also a financial benefit: local beer is often priced lower than imported or nationally distributed craft brands. A 16 oz pint of a local IPA typically costs $6–$8, while a similar beer from California or Colorado may run $9–$12.

Focus on breweries headquartered in Tarrant County or within 50 miles. They’re more likely to offer discounts, have fresher inventory, and participate in local promotions.

2. Drink Seasonally

Seasonal beers are brewed in limited quantities and are often priced lower to move inventory before the season ends. A winter imperial stout may cost $10 in December, but in March, it’s $6. A summer sour may be $8 in July but $5 in August. Timing your purchases around seasonal transitions saves money and keeps your palate engaged.

3. Avoid Overordering Flights

Flights are fun, but they’re also expensive. A 6-beer flight can cost $18–$25. Instead, consider ordering one or two full pints of beers you’re curious about, then ask the server for a free sample of a third. Many breweries will accommodate this request, especially during slow hours.

Also, share flights with friends. Splitting a 6-beer flight between two people gives you six tastes for half the price.

4. Store Beer Properly to Avoid Waste

Wasted beer is wasted money. Store your purchases in a cool, dark place—ideally between 45–55°F. Avoid direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations. Refrigerate hop-forward beers (IPAs, pale ales) and consume within 3–4 weeks. Stouts and sours can last longer, but flavor degrades over time.

Label your growlers and crowlers with the date. Use a first-in, first-out system to ensure you drink older beer before new purchases.

5. Don’t Chase Hype—Focus on Value

Just because a beer is “limited” or “sold out in 10 minutes” doesn’t mean it’s worth full price. Many hyped releases are priced for scarcity, not quality. Stick to breweries known for consistent flavor and fair pricing. Ask locals for recommendations, not just Instagram influencers.

6. Use Cashback and Rewards Apps

Apps like Rakuten, Ibotta, and Fetch Rewards offer cashback on grocery purchases—including beer. While not all Fort Worth stores accept these, H-E-B and Spec’s do. Use them in tandem with in-store promotions to stack savings.

7. Build Relationships with Staff

Regulars often get perks. Tell your favorite taproom staff your name, your favorite styles, and your budget. They’ll remember you and may offer:

• A free pour of a new experimental beer
• First access to a limited release
• An upgrade to a higher-tier beer at no extra cost

Being friendly and consistent builds trust—and trust translates to savings.

Tools and Resources

1. Fort Worth Craft Beer Map (Online)

The Fort Worth Craft Beer Map is a free, community-driven resource that lists every brewery, taproom, and beer bar in the metro area. It includes:

• Real-time tap lists
• Happy hour times
• Events calendar
• User-submitted reviews and deal alerts

Bookmark it. Use it before every outing.

2. Untappd App

Untappd is essential for tracking your beer journey. In Fort Worth, it’s more than a check-in app—it’s a deal finder. Look for:

• “Special Offers” badges on brewery profiles
• Check-in challenges with rewards
• “Popular Near Me” filters to find busy spots with promotions

Enable location services and notifications. You’ll get alerts when a brewery near you is running a flash sale.

3. Texas Craft Beer Guild

The Texas Craft Beer Guild represents over 200 Texas breweries, including many in Fort Worth. Their website features:

• A state-wide beer finder
• Annual Texas Craft Beer Week schedule
• Discount codes for member breweries

Sign up for their newsletter. They send out exclusive coupons every quarter.

4. Local Beer Blogs and Podcasts

Follow these for insider tips:

• Texas Beer News – Weekly updates on Fort Worth releases and promotions
• Beer in the Burbs – Podcast featuring interviews with Fort Worth brewers and listener-submitted deals
• DFW Beer Blog – In-depth reviews and “Best Value” lists updated monthly

These sources often reveal deals before they’re posted on social media.

5. Brewery Websites and Newsletters

Never skip signing up for brewery newsletters. They’re the most reliable source for:

• Early access to limited releases
• Member-only discounts
• Free event tickets
• Announcements about pop-up locations or off-site sales

Most newsletters are free and require only an email address. Set up a dedicated email folder to track them.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Weekly Beer Budget Breakdown

Meet Sarah, a Fort Worth resident who drinks 3–4 craft beers per week. Before applying these strategies, she spent $120/month on beer—mostly at bars and grocery stores.

After implementing the techniques above:

• She joined Peticolas and Rahr loyalty programs → saved $15/month in discounts
• She switched to buying growlers on Tuesdays (when Rahr offers $1 off fills) → saved $12/month
• She attends monthly tasting nights at Second Rodeo ($18 instead of $30 if bought individually) → saved $12/month
• She swapped beers with a local group → got 8 new beers for free monthly → saved $40/month
• She uses Untappd and checks for flash deals → saved $8/month

Total monthly savings: $87. Her new monthly beer budget: $33.

She now drinks more variety, more often, and feels more connected to the local scene.

Example 2: The Brewery Volunteer Turnaround

James, a college student, needed a way to enjoy craft beer on a tight budget. He volunteered for two hours at Four Corners Brewery one Saturday per month to help package kegs.

In return, he received:

• Free beer during his shift (approx. 6 pints)
• 20% off all merchandise
• Access to exclusive pre-sales of new releases

Over six months, James saved over $300 in beer and merch. He also made friends who invited him to private tastings and beer swaps.

Example 3: The Grocery Store Hack

Mark, a father of two, wanted to enjoy craft beer without overspending. He noticed that H-E-B ran a “Texas Craft Beer Week” promotion every March.

In March 2023, he bought:

• 6-pack of Peticolas’ “Daddy’s Little Girl” (normally $14) for $9
• 6-pack of Rahr’s “Dark Arts” (normally $16) for $11
• 6-pack of Deep Ellum’s “Hefe” (normally $12) for $8

Total retail value: $42. Total paid: $28. Savings: $14 on one trip.

He repeated this strategy in October, buying 12 six-packs total. He saved $168 that year just by timing his grocery runs.

FAQs

Can I really save money on craft beer in Fort Worth without sacrificing quality?

Absolutely. The key is shifting from impulse buying to strategic purchasing. By focusing on local breweries, off-peak hours, bulk purchases, and community events, you can access high-quality, fresh beer at prices comparable to mass-market lagers. Many of the best beers in Fort Worth are priced under $8 per pint when bought directly from the source.

Are brewery loyalty programs worth joining?

Yes—if you visit even once a month. Most programs require no fee, and the first reward (a free pint or 10% off) typically pays for the time it takes to sign up. Over a year, the average member saves $100–$200.

What’s the best time of year to buy craft beer cheaply in Fort Worth?

February–March and October–November are prime times. After the holiday rush, breweries clear out winter stouts. After summer, they discount light beers. Texas Craft Beer Week (March) and the Fall Brew Fest (October) are also packed with deals.

Do Fort Worth breweries sell beer to-go in cans or bottles?

Yes. Nearly all breweries offer 6-packs, 12-packs, and crowlers. Some even sell 16-oz single cans for take-home. Always ask about case discounts—they’re common.

Is it better to buy beer at a brewery or a liquor store?

For price and freshness, always choose the brewery. Liquor stores add 20–40% markup. Breweries sell at cost or near cost. Plus, you get fresher beer and support local business.

How do I know if a beer is still good if it’s past the “best by” date?

Most craft beers are safe to drink 3–6 months past the printed date if stored properly. Hoppy beers (IPAs) lose flavor fastest—drink within 6 weeks. Stouts, sours, and barrel-aged beers improve with age. Taste it. If it’s flat, sour (unless it’s a sour beer), or smells like wet cardboard, it’s past its prime.

Can I bring my own glassware to a brewery?

Most breweries allow it, especially if it’s clean and safe. Some even offer discounts for bringing your own growler or pint glass. Always ask first.

Are there any free beer events in Fort Worth?

Yes. Many breweries host free “Meet the Brewer” nights, anniversary celebrations, or charity tap takeovers. These often include complimentary pours. Follow local beer groups on Facebook and check event calendars.

Conclusion

Fort Worth’s craft beer scene is one of its greatest cultural assets—and it doesn’t have to be a financial burden. By adopting the strategies outlined in this guide, you can enjoy exceptional, locally brewed beer without overspending. Whether you’re signing up for loyalty programs, attending tasting nights, swapping beers with neighbors, or buying in bulk, every step you take reduces cost and deepens your connection to the community.

The secret isn’t just finding deals—it’s becoming part of the ecosystem. The more you engage with breweries, the more they reward you. The more you learn about seasonal releases and off-peak hours, the more you’ll discover that the best beer isn’t always the most expensive—it’s the one you found at the right time, in the right place, with the right mindset.

Start small. Pick one strategy from this guide and implement it this week. Maybe it’s signing up for a brewery newsletter. Maybe it’s visiting a taproom on a Tuesday afternoon. Maybe it’s joining a beer swap. Whatever it is, take that first step. Then keep going. In a year, you’ll look back and realize you didn’t just save money—you discovered a richer, more rewarding way to enjoy Fort Worth’s beer culture.