In the home state of Dogfish Head’s iconic Punkin Ale, craft breweries take fall seriously.
Over the next month, breweries will roll out autumnal-themed events tying all sorts of things ― horror comics, candy, brunches and cooking and pet costume contests ― to, well, beer, of course.
So grab your favorite flannel and make some plans to celebrate pumpkin season with some of the state’s best beer-makers.
Oct. 12: Punkin Ale Fest , Dogfish Head Craft Brewery
Running from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the brewery’s Milton compound, this free dog-friendly family event may be focused around Dogfish’s best-selling seasonal beer, but it’s much more than that.
Expect more than 35 local craft vendors, six food trucks, live music (acoustic emo act Through Being Cool), fall games, pet photo booth and a pumpkin decorating contest.
And, yes, the 7% ABV Punkin Ale ― made with pumpkin, organic brown sugar, allspice, nutmeg and cinnamon ― will be available.
The beer dates back to 1994 when Dogfish Head founder Sam Calagione entered his first batch of pumpkin beer into the Punkin Chunkin recipe contest and won first place. The brewery has produced it every fall since.