2022 Event Canceled

It is with great sadness that we announce the cancellation of this year's event. After two years of postponing the event, we have found that it will not be possible to do this event at this time. We hope to revive this event in the future and hope we get to see you all again soon. For those who purchased tickets for 2020, you will be getting an email that will have instructions on how to get reimbursed.

Minnesota History Center

St. Paul, MN

TBD

25 Breweries

Over 50 special beers to try!

About the Northern Lights Rare Beer Fest

Featuring rare, vintage and one-off specialty beers from a carefully-curated list of craft breweries, the Northern Lights Rare Beer Fest is a one-of-a-kind event that showcases the creativity and skill of a select group of top brewers in the country.

Twenty-five craft breweries, including at least ten from Minnesota, were invited to participate - each brewery will offer two beers, of which will be rare offerings, which may include:

  • - a beer that is limited in availability.
  • - a vintage beer.
  • - a beer that was brewed specifically for the fest.

Location and Hours

Transportation and Parking

There is ample drop off area for those taking ride share, taxi, or getting dropped off.

Event parking is $5 at the MN History Center parking lot.

Bus routes that stop near the History Center include the 16, 21 and 94. Please visit the Metro Transit website for detailed information.

PLEASE BE RESPONSIBLE, DO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE.

Food

Wonderful food prepared by D'Amico Catering is included as part of your admission. In addition, at the beginning of the event there will be a variety of passed cheeses available courtesy of our friends at the Caves of Faribault. During the last hour there will be popcorn and soft pretzel bites available.

Coffee, Hot Cider, and Buddy's Orange, Grape and Strawberry Sodas are also available. Water Stations will be located throughout the grounds. Please take advantage of them to stay well hydrated, cleanse your palate, and enjoy your sampling experience.

Entertainment

Live music by The Zacc Harris Trio!

Tickets

General Admission

7-10pm

$125

Limited Tickets Available

  • Rare & Special beers from 25 Breweries
  • Commemerative Tasting Glass
  • Knowledgable Brewery Owners, Brewers, or Reps Pouring
  • Catered Food from D'Amico Catering
  • Welcome and Closing Snacks
  • Music by The Zacc Harris Trio
On Sale Soon

IMPORTANT NOTE: Tickets purchased for the postponed 2020 event will be honored.

Breweries

Breweries To Be Announced Soon...
Download Official Program
(Coming Soon...)

Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who can come to the Northern Lights Rare Beer Fest?
Only persons 21 years or older with a valid ID can enter the Northern Lights Rare Beer Fest ground. No children or pets (service dogs are accepted).
The Northern Lights Rare Beer Fest starts at 7pm and ends at 10pm sharp. Brewery Representatives are not allowed to pour samples after 10pm. Please be prepared to leave the festival promptly.

Bring an open mind to try the wonderful styles of craft beer available. Please come well hydrated and take advantage of water stations located throughout the venue, water will also help cleanse your palette. Don't rush through samples, take time to enjoy the aroma and the flavor.

No outside drinks or food may be allowed in the Northern Lights Rare Beer Fest venue. Food is provided as part of your admission. Drinking on a empty stomach is never a good idea.

Parking is available for $5 in the parking lot. Overnight parking allowed, so be responsible and DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE!
Yes, basic medical staff will be present in addition to security during the Northern Lights Rare Beer Fest.
Yes, tickets previous purchased for the 2020 event will be honored for this year's festival.
Is there a Designated Driver Ticket option?
No, there are no DD tickets available at this event. General Admission ticket holders chosing not to drink are welcome to enjoy the H'ordeves, food, craft sodas, and live music.
There is a selection of craft sodas, water, and coffee in addition to catered food and h'ordeves.
The Northern Lights Rare Beer Fest People's Choice Award is given to the most voted beer of the night. Votes must be submitted by 9pm to be counted.
  • 2019 - Barrel Theory - "Barrel Aged Ice Cream Social" Imperial Stout w/ cacao, vanilla, strawberries, & marshmallow fluff
  • 2018 - Forager Brewery - "NillerZZZZZZ" Barrel Aged Stout on vanilla beans
  • 2017 - Forager Brewery - "Magnus" Honey Bourbon Barrel Aged Stout
  • 2016 - Fitger's Brewhouse - 1100 Wheat Wine aged in Pappy Van Winkle barrels
  • 2015 - August Schell Brewing Co. - Starkeller Peach
  • 2014 - Grand Teton Brewing Co. - Huckleberry Sour

Sponsors

COMING SOON...

become a sponsor
(Available Soon)