The 38th edition of the Great American Beer Festival (GABF) has once again highlighted the finest in American brewing and cider-making. Held in Denver, Colorado, this prestigious event brought together over 1,800 breweries and cideries from across the nation, showcasing an impressive array of beverages that cater to evolving consumer tastes.

This year's competition featured a record number of entries, with more than 9,000 beers and ciders evaluated by a panel of experts. The inclusion of five new cider categories underscores the growing importance of this beverage category within the industry. Over 250 volunteers and 285 judges worked tirelessly to ensure a fair and thorough evaluation process, resulting in the awarding of 326 medals across various categories.

The festival not only celebrates the best in traditional beer styles but also embraces innovation. Categories like Juicy/Hazy IPA saw the highest number of entries, reflecting current trends in craft brewing. Additionally, the Collaboration and Pro-Am competitions provided platforms for brewers to showcase collaborative efforts and amateur talent, further enriching the diversity of offerings.

The Great American Beer Festival continues to play a vital role in recognizing and promoting excellence in the brewing industry. By celebrating both established and emerging talent, it fosters a vibrant community dedicated to crafting high-quality beverages. This commitment to quality and innovation serves as an inspiration for brewers and consumers alike, reinforcing the spirit of creativity and excellence that defines the craft beer movement.