The stately red fir tree was selected from the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest—the largest National Forest in the lower 48 states—and harvested in late October. It’s now making its way across multiple states before reaching the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol in late November. The initiative is organized in partnership with the USDA Forest Service and the Society of American Foresters.

Three Beers for the Journey

To mark the occasion, Schussboom brewed up three commemorative beers that pay tribute to Nevada’s natural and cultural heritage. “Abies Magnifica” is a hoppy red ale brewed with foraged red fir tips—yes, named after the actual tree species making the trip. “Comstock Lode,” a hazy IPA, tips its hat to Nevada’s mining past and all that gold and silver pulled from Virginia City. And “Ghost of Christmas Pils,” a Bavarian Pilsner, honors the rowdy spirits of the Wild West.

Taking the Show on the Road

The tree made its first public appearance on October 25 at Mount Rose Ski Tahoe, followed by an after-party at Schussboom Brewing where the commemorative beers were flowing freely.

Now Schussboom is hitting the road with the tree, traveling through Nevada and Arizona to pour the specialty brews at community events along the way. They’ll keep the party going all the way to the Capitol for the tree lighting ceremony in December, where the tree will be decked out with handmade ornaments created by Nevada residents.

“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to partner with the USDA Forest Service and the Society of American Foresters, represent Nevada across the country, and create Christmas cheer with beer,” said Briana Wagner, President of Schussboom Brewing.

The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree is a 55-year tradition featuring a tree from one of the nation’s 154 national forests. Public events along the route are free and made possible through sponsorships. For more information, visit USCapitolChristmasTree.com or follow @uscapitolchristmastree on Facebook and Instagram.

The post Schussboom Brewing Joins “The People’s Tree” on a Cross-Country Beer Tour appeared first on CraftBeer.com.

They need us to step up and order a pint, fill a growler, and stock the fridge. Let’s heed their call! Inside, outside, or curbside … join us in supporting these main street businesses that give our hometowns their unique flavor and keep our glasses full of delicious craft beer.

Traveling? Use our handy Brewery Finder to locate a brewpub or taproom near you. Stay for a pint or grab and go!

Be sure to tag @IndieBeer_on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter in your posts so we can share your #SmallBrewerySunday funtivities.

The post A Big Day for Small Breweries: Celebrate Small Brewery Sunday This Nov. 28 appeared first on CraftBeer.com.

National Independent Beer Run DayOpens in new window, observed annually on July 3, is dedicated to supporting and celebrating independent beer in advance of Independence Day.

#BeerRunDay is for stocking up on local favorites for a Fourth of July gathering. It’s also for enjoyment right at the brewery, surrounded by friends and family. The most sublime beer runs involve both scenarios: sipping at the brewery and then leaving with arms full of fresh craft beer for later.

“For small and independent breweries, the Fourth of July period is like Black Friday,” says Bart Watson, chief economist for the Brewers Association. “It’s easily one of the biggest beer holidays for to-go sales, and is a huge driver of on-premise sales as well.”

No surprise there. Craft beer is a natural complement to picnics, barbecues, family reunions, cookouts, and camping trips. When it comes to essential shopping-list items for Independence Day, independent beer is right up there with charcoal briquettes, sparklers, and sunscreen.

Get Involved

The post PSA: July 3 Is National Independent #BeerRunDay appeared first on CraftBeer.com.

We invite you to toast the local businesses that have endured tough times to ensure our glasses, growlers, and beer fridges remain full. Head over to your local brewpub or taproom and enjoy a pint, or grab a sixer or growler to-go.

Here’s to American craft beer!

The post Get Ready: American Craft Beer Week Is May 10-16 appeared first on CraftBeer.com.