Burp Fest at Washington Brewers Festival 2026

The Washington Brewers Festival traces its roots back to the 1990s, when it operated under the Washington Beer Commission as part of the Washington State Department of Agriculture. In its earliest incarnations, the festival moved through several locations across the state, including the Herb Farm in Fall City, St. Edward State Park, and Marymoor Park in Redmond. Each venue reflected the festival's evolving identity as Washington's craft beer industry grew from a handful of pioneers into one of the most dynamic brewing scenes in the country.

When the Washington Brewers Guild was formally established in 1999, it took over stewardship of the festival and began professionalizing the event. The move to Seattle Center — home to the Space Needle and one of the city's most recognizable landmarks — was a turning point, giving the festival a high-profile urban setting with excellent transit access and the infrastructure to handle large crowds.

Today, the Washington Brewers Festival stands as the definitive showcase of Washington-brewed beer. With over 80 breweries participating, the event offers an unmatched opportunity to explore the breadth of the state's craft beer output in a single afternoon. From established names to emerging small-batch producers, the festival provides a level playing field where every brewery gets to pour alongside their peers.

The festival's dual role as celebration and fundraiser gives it a deeper purpose beyond the tastings. Proceeds support the Washington Brewers Guild's advocacy, education, and promotion work on behalf of the state's independent breweries, making every ticket purchase an investment in the future of Washington craft beer.