Firkin Fest at The Happy Gnome

UPDATED: Firkin Fest at The Happy Gnome

It’s that time of year again. . .

The Happy Gnome, on Selby Avenue in St. Paul, has been a leader in the local and national craft beer scene since it’s opening eight years ago. This spring, The Happy Gnome will host its annual Firkin Fest: a collection of specially-brewed ales using traditional ingredients. Each one of these beers has been cask-conditioned, with no filtration, pasteurization or added gases for carbonation.

Beginning at noon on March 22, under a heated tent in the parking lot of The Happy Gnome, over 90 casks from nearly 50 breweries across the country will be tapped. Local breweries will be featured, such as Surly, Fulton, Lift Bridge, Rush River, Schell’s and Summit, as well as local newcomers Excelsior, Bad Weather, Steel Toe and Boom Island. Many national breweries will be there too – including Bell’s, Founders, Deschutes, Lagunitas and New Belgium.

“Firkin Fest is a great opportunity for craft brewers to showcase the artistry of their craft,” said Ryan Huseby, general manager of The Happy Gnome. “They get to create something unique that really can’t be made on a large scale, and share it with people who are true beer enthusiasts.”

Firkin Fest will take place from 12–6pm on Saturday, March 22. Tickets are $50 and must be purchased in advance at www.thehappygnome.com. The Happy Gnome will also be open, serving its regular menu, full bar and 76 draft beers before, during and after the firkins.

UPDATE: Full list of breweries announced