More than 3,000 beer enthusiasts are expected to attend the American Homebrewers Association’s (AHA)36th annual National Homebrewers Conference, from June 12 through June 14th at DeVos Place Convention Center. More than 80 presenters are scheduled, including keynote speakers Dave Engbers and Mike Stevens of Founders Brewing Company.Attendees will also have the opportunity to experience 55 different seminars covering topics ranging from practical and experimental brewing to making a living crafting beer. In addition, the Homebrew Expo & Beer City Social Club will feature several dozen companies showcasing the latest and coolest in tools, gadgets and equipment.
“Over the last few years, we’ve really seen a tremendous surge in the number of people participating in the hobby of homebrewing,” says AHA Director, Gary Glass. “Our mission at the American Homebrewers Association is to provide this growing community with the tools and resources they need to brew the best beer in the world.The National Homebrewers Conference adds the important ingredients of education and socializing to the homebrewing mix.”
More than 1.2 million people brew their own beer at home in the United States and Michigan is home to an estimated 40,000 homebrewers.
The conference is also home to the final round of judging in the National Homebrew Competition, the world’s largest beer competition, which recognizes the most outstanding homebrewed beer, mead and cider produced by amateur brewers worldwide. The event culminates with the Grand Banquet during the competition awards ceremony. Sean Paxton, the Homebrew Chef, will be cooking up an assortment of dishes paired with craft beers from banquet sponsor, Samuel Adams.
“Participating in the National Homebrew Competition puts homebrewers on the world’s stage,” adds Glass. “It’s an exciting time for the community to rally together to cheer on their own creations, as well as their fellow homebrewers.”
For more information about the National Homebrewers Conference, visit www.ahaconference.org.
