How to Visit Fort Worth Craft Beer Month

Fort Worth Craft Beer Month is more than just a celebration of hops, malt, and yeast—it’s a cultural phenomenon that transforms the city into a vibrant hub for beer enthusiasts, local artisans, and curious travelers alike. Held annually in February, this month-long event showcases the thriving craft beer scene of North Texas, featuring over 50 independent breweries, dozens of exclusive releases, immersive taproom events, guided tastings, and collaborative brews that can’t be found anywhere else. For visitors, whether they’re seasoned beer connoisseurs or first-time explorers, navigating Fort Worth Craft Beer Month requires more than just a thirst—it demands strategy, awareness, and a genuine appreciation for the craft.

The importance of this event extends beyond the glass. Fort Worth Craft Beer Month fuels the local economy, supports small businesses, and strengthens community identity. It highlights the city’s transformation from a traditional Western outpost into a nationally recognized destination for innovative brewing. With breweries like Peticolas, Four Corners, and Deep Ellum’s Fort Worth outposts leading the charge, the event draws tens of thousands of attendees each year, making it one of the most significant craft beer experiences in the Southwest.

This guide is your comprehensive roadmap to experiencing Fort Worth Craft Beer Month to its fullest. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, this tutorial will walk you through every essential step—from pre-trip planning to post-event reflection—while offering insider tips, best practices, tools, real-world examples, and answers to frequently asked questions. By the end, you’ll not only know how to visit Fort Worth Craft Beer Month, but how to immerse yourself in it with confidence, curiosity, and celebration.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Confirm the Dates and Event Calendar

Fort Worth Craft Beer Month officially runs throughout February, but the schedule of events varies by year and venue. Begin by visiting the official website—fortworthcraftbeermonth.com—where the master calendar is published in early January. This calendar includes everything from brewery open houses and taproom takeovers to beer pairings with local chefs, brewery tours, and live music nights. Bookmark the page and subscribe to their email newsletter for real-time updates.

Some events are ticketed and sell out quickly, especially those featuring limited-release beers or collaborations with national breweries. Mark key dates on your calendar: Opening Night (typically the first Friday of February), the Fort Worth Beer Crawl (mid-month), and the Grand Finale (last weekend). Set calendar alerts at least three weeks in advance to avoid missing critical opportunities.

Step 2: Research Participating Breweries

Not all breweries participate equally. Some host daily events, while others release one special beer and call it a month. Create a prioritized list based on your preferences. Are you drawn to hazy IPAs? Seek out Peticolas Brewing Company, known for their “Royal Scam” and “Velvet Hammer.” Prefer sour ales? Head to Four Corners Brewery, which frequently experiments with fruit-infused wild ferments. For barrel-aged stouts, visit Rahr & Sons Brewing Company, whose “Winter Warmer” is a local legend.

Use the official event map to identify brewery clusters. The Near Southside and Fort Worth Downtown districts are densely packed with participating locations, making walking or biking feasible. Breweries in the Cultural District and the Stockyards offer more spread-out but equally rewarding experiences. Download offline maps using Google Maps or Apple Maps for areas with spotty cellular service.

Step 3: Purchase a Passport or Event Pass

One of the most popular features of Fort Worth Craft Beer Month is the official Passport program. For a small fee (typically $25–$35), you receive a digital or physical passport booklet that grants you discounted or complimentary tastings at participating breweries. Each stamp you collect unlocks a reward—often a limited-edition glass, a T-shirt, or entry into a raffle for brewery merchandise.

Passports are sold online in advance through the official website or at select local retailers like The Brewer’s Art, Whole Foods Market (Fort Worth locations), and independent bottle shops. Avoid waiting until the last minute—passes often sell out by mid-January. Digital versions are preferred for convenience and sustainability; they sync with your phone and update in real time as you check in.

Step 4: Plan Your Transportation and Accommodations

Fort Worth is a sprawling city, and while many breweries are clustered in walkable districts, others require a car or rideshare. If you plan to visit multiple locations in one day, designate a sober driver or rely on rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft. Avoid driving after tasting—many breweries offer non-alcoholic options, but safety should always come first.

Book accommodations early. The best hotels for visitors include The Hotel Texas (downtown), The Westin Fort Worth (near the Cultural District), and boutique options like The Hotel Alessandra. Consider Airbnbs in the Near Southside for a more local feel. Many properties offer “Beer Month Packages” that include breakfast, brewery discounts, or shuttle service to key locations. Book at least six weeks ahead to secure the best rates and availability.

Step 5: Create a Daily Itinerary

Don’t try to do everything in one day. Overloading your schedule leads to fatigue and diminished enjoyment. Instead, craft a balanced daily plan. For example:

• Day 1 (Downtown): Start at Peticolas Brewing Company (11 a.m.), then walk to Four Corners (1 p.m.), followed by a lunch at The Rustic (brewery-affiliated restaurant), and end with a tasting at Rahr & Sons (5 p.m.).
• Day 2 (Near Southside): Visit Two Bros. BBQ & Brewery (12 p.m.), then head to The Union (2 p.m.) for their “Brew & Board” pairing event. Cap the night with live jazz at the Fort Worth Brewing Company (7 p.m.).
• Day 3 (Cultural District): Explore the historic Stockyards area with a tour of Lone Star Brewing Company (10 a.m.), then grab a bite at The Cattleman’s Steakhouse before visiting Craft & Growler (3 p.m.) for a flight of Texas-only brews.

Leave buffer time between stops. Breweries can get crowded, and some events require reservations. Always call ahead to confirm hours, especially on weekends.

Step 6: Register for Special Events

Many of the most memorable experiences require advance registration. Events like the “Brewmaster’s Dinner” (a multi-course meal paired with rare barrel-aged beers) or “Brewing 101: From Grain to Glass” workshops fill up within hours of opening. Visit the event page on the official website and click “Reserve Your Spot.” You’ll receive a confirmation email with location details, parking instructions, and what to bring.

Some events are free but operate on a first-come, first-served basis. These include brewery open houses, taproom trivia nights, and “Meet the Brewer” sessions. Arrive early—sometimes 30–60 minutes before opening—to ensure entry.

Step 7: Pack Smart for the Experience

Bring the essentials: a reusable water bottle (many breweries provide free refills), a small notebook or phone app to log tasting notes, and a portable phone charger. Wear comfortable walking shoes—many brewery districts involve cobblestone streets and uneven sidewalks. Dress in layers; indoor taprooms can be warm, while outdoor patios may be chilly in February.

Don’t forget your ID. Texas enforces strict alcohol laws, and you must be 21+ to taste or purchase. Bring a government-issued photo ID—digital IDs are not accepted. If you’re traveling from out of state, ensure your license is valid and legible.

Step 8: Engage with Staff and Brewmasters

The heart of Fort Worth Craft Beer Month lies in the people behind the beer. Don’t hesitate to ask questions. What’s the story behind this sour? Why did you choose this hop variety? How does the local water profile affect the flavor?

Brewery staff are often passionate, knowledgeable, and eager to share their craft. Many are homebrewers turned professionals. Building rapport can lead to exclusive pours, behind-the-scenes tours, or invitations to private events. A simple “Thank you for your time” goes a long way.

Step 9: Document and Share Your Experience

Take photos—of the beer, the labels, the taproom décor, the people. But don’t just post them. Write captions that tell a story: “Tasted the first pour of ‘Meadow Lark’ IPA at Peticolas—notes of grapefruit and pine, brewed with Texas-grown Cascade hops.” Tag the breweries, use the official hashtag

FWCraftBeerMonth, and engage with their social media. Many breweries feature user-generated content on their feeds and may even send you a free gift for sharing.

Consider starting a blog or Instagram series. Documenting your journey not only enhances your memory but also helps others plan their own visits. Authentic storytelling is highly valued in the craft beer community.

Step 10: Reflect and Plan for Next Year

After the month ends, take time to review your passport stamps, tasting notes, and photos. Which beer surprised you the most? Which brewery made you feel most welcome? Which event left you wanting more?

Use this reflection to build a personal “Top 5” list for next year. Did you discover a new favorite brewery? Add them to your must-visit list. Did you miss an event you’d love to attend again? Note it for next February. Many breweries release next year’s preview calendars in November, so signing up for alerts now ensures you’re first in line when registration opens.

Best Practices

Practice Responsible Tasting

Craft beer is meant to be savored, not consumed in quantity. A standard tasting flight includes 4–6 ounces per beer. Pace yourself. Drink water between samples. Eat food—many breweries offer small plates, charcuterie, or partnerships with local food trucks. Avoid drinking on an empty stomach. Your palate and your safety depend on it.

Support Local, Not Just Famous Names

While Peticolas and Rahr & Sons are household names, some of the most exciting beers come from smaller, newer breweries like Bitter Sisters, Wild Rye, or Southside on Lamar. These breweries often take more creative risks and offer limited-edition brews you won’t find elsewhere. Give them a chance. Your palate—and the local economy—will thank you.

Respect Brewery Culture

Each brewery has its own vibe. Some are loud, casual, and family-friendly. Others are quiet, minimalist, and focused on serious beer appreciation. Observe the environment. Don’t bring outside food or drink unless permitted. Avoid loud or disruptive behavior. Remember—you’re a guest in someone else’s workspace.

Buy Direct, Take Home

Many breweries offer exclusive 16-ounce cans or 64-ounce growlers only available during Craft Beer Month. These are often labeled with event-specific artwork and are highly collectible. Buy them on-site when you can—online availability is limited and often resold at inflated prices. If you’re flying home, pack beer in checked luggage using bubble wrap and sealed plastic bags to prevent leaks.

Be Inclusive and Open-Minded

Craft beer is for everyone—regardless of gender, background, or experience level. Don’t assume you know what you like. Try a sour, a lager, or a barrel-aged stout even if it’s outside your comfort zone. Ask for recommendations. The most memorable beers are often the ones you didn’t plan to try.

Leave No Trace

Many breweries prioritize sustainability. Use reusable glassware when available. Recycle cans and bottles. Don’t litter. Some locations have compost bins for food waste. Respect the space—clean up after yourself, especially in outdoor seating areas. Your actions reflect on the entire community.

Engage with the Community

Join Facebook groups like “Fort Worth Beer Lovers” or Reddit threads like r/FortWorthBeer. Ask questions, share tips, and connect with locals. Many residents host unofficial meetups, brewery tours, or potluck tastings during the month. These grassroots gatherings often offer the most authentic experiences.

Tools and Resources

Official Website: fortworthcraftbeermonth.com

This is your central hub. It features the master calendar, brewery directory, passport purchase portal, event registration, downloadable maps, and press releases. Bookmark it and check daily for last-minute additions or cancellations.

Mobile Apps

Untappd: The most popular beer tracking app in the U.S. Scan beer labels to log your tastings, rate them, and see what others are drinking nearby. Many Fort Worth breweries integrate Untappd check-ins into their passport programs.

Google Maps / Apple Maps: Use these to navigate between breweries. Save locations in a custom list titled “FWCBM 2025” for easy access. Enable offline maps for areas with poor signal.

BeerAdvocate: For in-depth reviews and ratings of specific beers. Useful if you want to compare a new release to similar styles.

Local Media and Influencers

Follow local beer bloggers like Beer in Fort Worth (blog) and TX Craft Beer News (Instagram). They often post behind-the-scenes content, exclusive previews, and interviews with brewers. Their insights can help you identify hidden gems.

Print Resources

Ask for the official printed passport booklet at participating breweries or partner businesses. It includes QR codes for digital check-ins, brewery bios, and a fold-out map of the city’s beer districts. Many collectors keep these as souvenirs.

Transportation Tools

Use Lyft or Uber for safe rides. Some breweries partner with rideshare services to offer discounted codes during the month. Check their social media for promo codes like “FWBEER20” for $10 off rides.

Consider renting a bike through Fort Worth Bike Share if you’re staying downtown. Several breweries are located along the Trinity River Trail, making cycling a scenic and eco-friendly option.

Food Pairing Guides

Download the “Taste of Fort Worth” food pairing guide (available on the official site). It matches popular local dishes—like brisket tacos, chicken-fried steak, and kolaches—with ideal beer styles. For example: a smoked porter with brisket, a crisp pilsner with fried okra.

Real Examples

Example 1: The First-Time Visitor

Sarah, a teacher from Ohio, visited Fort Worth for the first time during Craft Beer Month. She bought the digital passport, downloaded Untappd, and followed the official Instagram account. Her plan: one brewery per day, with a food stop in between.

On Day 2, she visited Two Bros. BBQ & Brewery. She tried their “Peach Cobbler Sour”—a beer brewed with real peaches and cinnamon. She loved it so much she bought a 64-ounce growler to take home. She posted a photo with the caption: “Never thought I’d like a sour beer… until now.” The brewery tagged her in a follow-up post, and she received a free T-shirt in the mail a week later.

By the end of the month, Sarah had visited 12 breweries, collected 18 stamps, and made three new friends through brewery trivia night. She returned home with a suitcase full of cans, a new appreciation for Texas brewing, and a plan to bring her family back next year.

Example 2: The Beer Enthusiast

James, a homebrewer from Austin, came to Fort Worth with a checklist of 20 rare beers he wanted to try. He arrived a week early to attend a “Brewing Science Seminar” hosted by Rahr & Sons. He met the head brewer, exchanged yeast strains, and was invited to a private tasting of a new barrel-aged barleywine still aging in bourbon casks.

James logged every beer in Untappd, wrote detailed tasting notes on his blog, and created a YouTube video titled “10 Fort Worth Beers That Changed My Life.” The video went viral in the Texas craft beer community. Two breweries reached out to offer him a guest-brewing slot for next year’s event.

Example 3: The Family Trip

The Martinez family—parents and two teens—visited Fort Worth during the month-long celebration. They stayed at a family-friendly Airbnb near the Cultural District. While the adults enjoyed beer tastings, the teens participated in the “Non-Alcoholic Beer Experience” hosted by Craft & Growler, where they sampled craft sodas, kombuchas, and house-made root beer brewed by local artisans.

They joined a brewery tour at Peticolas that included a history of the city’s brewing heritage and a hands-on lesson in grain milling. The kids loved it. The family left with matching T-shirts, a photo album, and a newfound love for the craft beer culture—not just the alcohol.

FAQs

Is Fort Worth Craft Beer Month only for beer experts?

No. The event is designed for all levels of interest—from curious newcomers to seasoned collectors. Many breweries offer beginner-friendly flights, guided tastings, and educational talks. Staff are trained to explain flavors, styles, and brewing techniques in accessible language.

Do I need to buy a passport to attend events?

Not all events require a passport. Open houses, trivia nights, and live music are often free. However, the passport unlocks exclusive discounts, free tastings, and collectible rewards. It’s highly recommended for anyone planning to visit more than three breweries.

Can I bring my kids to breweries?

Many breweries are family-friendly, especially during daytime hours. Look for venues with outdoor patios, kid-friendly menus, and non-alcoholic options. Some even host “Family Brew Day” events with games and activities. Always check the brewery’s policy before visiting.

Are there vegetarian or vegan beer options?

Yes. Many craft beers are naturally vegan (no animal-derived fining agents). Breweries like Four Corners and Bitter Sisters label their vegan-friendly beers clearly. Ask staff or check the brewery’s website for dietary information.

What if I can’t make it in February?

While the official event is in February, Fort Worth’s craft beer scene is active year-round. Many breweries host anniversary parties, seasonal releases, and taproom events throughout the year. Visit during spring or fall for fewer crowds and just as much flavor.

Can I ship beer home from Fort Worth?

Yes, but with restrictions. Texas law allows breweries to ship beer directly to consumers in certain states. Check the brewery’s website for shipping policies. Not all states permit direct alcohol delivery, so verify your state’s laws before ordering.

How do I know if a beer is exclusive to Craft Beer Month?

Look for special labels with “FWCBM 2025” or event-specific artwork. Breweries often announce these releases on social media a week before launch. If a beer is only available on tap, it’s likely a one-time collaboration.

What’s the best way to get around if I don’t have a car?

Use rideshare apps, bike share programs, or stay in a central neighborhood like Downtown or Near Southside. Many breweries are within a 1–2 mile radius, making walking feasible. Plan your route using Google Maps’ walking directions.

Are there beer tastings for people with dietary restrictions?

Yes. Many breweries offer gluten-reduced, low-sugar, or allergen-free options. Ask for a “sensory flight” or request a custom tasting based on your needs. Staff are trained to accommodate dietary concerns.

Can I volunteer during Fort Worth Craft Beer Month?

Yes. The event relies on volunteers for event setup, passport distribution, and guest assistance. Applications open in December on the official website. Volunteers receive free access to events, merchandise, and recognition on the event’s website.

Conclusion

Fort Worth Craft Beer Month is not just an event—it’s an experience that blends culture, community, and craftsmanship into a single, unforgettable month. From the first sip of a hazy IPA brewed with Texas-grown hops to the last toast at a midnight closing party, every moment is an opportunity to connect—with beer, with people, and with the spirit of the city.

This guide has walked you through every step of the journey: from planning and preparation to tasting, reflection, and beyond. You now know how to navigate the event with confidence, how to respect its traditions, and how to uncover its hidden treasures. You’ve seen real stories of travelers transformed by the experience, and you’ve learned the tools and resources that make success possible.

But the most important lesson? The best part of Fort Worth Craft Beer Month isn’t the beer—it’s the people you meet along the way. The brewer who shares his story. The stranger who recommends a hidden gem. The friend you make over a shared flight of sours. These are the moments that linger long after the last glass is drained.

So pack your passport, lace up your shoes, and head to Fort Worth. Let curiosity lead you. Taste boldly. Ask questions. Share your story. And remember: every beer has a journey. Yours begins now.