Raise a glass to Kalamazoo Craft Beverage Week 2025

Plenty of new elements for the 15^th celebration of local craft beverages

KALAMAZOO, MI – One of the longest-running celebrations of craft beverage producers in the state of Michigan will return for its 15^th installment in February.

Kalamazoo Craft Beverage Week will span Feb. 1-8, 2025, with a variety of unique events, fun experiences, recurring specials and more goodness to help spruce up the winter. This year’s event boasts more than 100 events – from the popular Bell Brewery’s Snow Jog and Presidential Brewing Co.’s Beer Olympics to a series of specialty food-and-beverage pairings.

There are a ton of new elements, participants and ways to absorb this annual celebration of the Kalamazoo craft beverage community.

Here are three things you should know as you schedule your week of activities:

1 – Your support is vital right now

Many of our local craft beverage makers and service industry professionals are in the midst of a perfect storm for their lines of work. First, there’s the popularity of Dry January, where people opt to avoid alcohol for the month. Second, everyone is experiencing a difficult economic environment with fewer disposal dollars at the ready. Third, there has been a shift in drinking habits – with younger drinkers opting to imbibe far less and more seasoned drinkers opting to consume less from local beverage options. And fourth, there are legislative changes set to take place on Feb. 1 that will affect employee wages and can further strain some of the struggling small businesses. Given all these factors, plus the slow winter season, our support for our craft beverage business and restaurant industry has never been more important to continuing the vibrancy of Kalamazoo County. Remember, these events are happening all over the county, so do your best to spread your dollars and be as active as you can on social media platforms to help showcase your experiences.

2 – New dates for 2025

For the first time in its 15-year history, Kalamazoo Craft Beverage Week has shifted a month later to February. This year’s installment will run Feb. 1-8, in part to give participants a chance to give full attention to their events following a busy holiday season. It also avoids Dry January and falls prior to Valentine’s Day. Be sure to make a note of the shift as you set your plan of attack. You can also load up on some drinks and snacks for Super Bowl Sunday on Sunday, Feb. 9, or discover unique gift ideas for the that special person in your life. Several participants will be providing options that can be enjoyed at home. Remember to check the website often, as new events are updated frequently.

3 – Vote and grab a sticker!

credit: Nichole Lindhorn

In addition to helping build up our craft beverage and restaurant friends, your hard work during Kalamazoo Craft Beverage Week can lead to prizes. As your travel around the county for unique events, there will be a series of voting opportunities. For those who spread their love around and cast votes on the various categories, you’ll be entered for a chance to win KCBW-related prizes. Also, keep an eye out for the 2025 KCBW sticker. The winning submission comes from the talents of Nichole M.K. Lindhorn, of Kalamazoo. The graphic designer’s whimsical sticker will be featured at several stops during the week. Pick up your copy while supplies last! This is the second year of the design contest with Heather Picardat, of Kentwood, winning last year’s price.

For more information on events, specials and lodging opportunities, go to KalamazooCraftBeverageWeek.com and follow #KCBW2025.