Some of Minnesota’s smallest craft breweries are being drafted into the NFL.
Several northeast Minneapolis breweries will be featured at U.S. Bank Stadium once it opens later this summer, a news release says. The hope is to make a craft beer destination at the new Vikings stadium.
Included is: Fair State Brewing Cooperative, NorthGate Brewing, Insight Brewing, Sociable Cider Werks, Bauhaus Brew Labs and 56 Brewing,
These micro and small breweries (meaning they don’t manufacture more than 3,500 barrels of beer a year) will be showcasing their brews thanks to a collaboration between the Twin Cities’ Northeast Brewers and Distillers Association and stadium owners.
The beer from the northeast Minneapolis breweries will be featured on a portable cart – something Evan Salee, the CEO of Fair State and a member of the the association’s Board of Directors, says is “different and unique” from other sports facilities, and will help set U.S. Bank Stadium apart.
Michele Kelm-Helgen, chair of the Minnesota Sports Facility Authority which oversees the stadium, called Minnesota’s craft beer culture “among the most prolific in the country.” She said the partnership is part of their goal to include local fare on the menu at the stadium.
Last month, officials announced some of the new foods that’ll be available, including some from local eateries.
Other beers you’ll be able to buy
In addition to the beer cart, other larger Minnesota breweries will be available throughout the stadium.
People at stadium events will also be able to sip on beers from Summit Brewing Company, 612 Brew, Surly Brewing Company, Lake Monster Brewing, Lift Bridge Brewing, Fulton Beer and Finnegans.
And for those who don’t fancy craft beer, stadium staples from MillerCoors will be available, the release says.
The first events
Construction on U.S. Bank Stadium wrapped up last week – six weeks ahead of schedule. The first sporting event at the new facility is set for Aug. 3 – AC Milan is taking on Chelsea F.C. in soccer.
Luke Bryan and Metallica will perform Aug. 19 and Aug. 20, and the first Vikings game is Aug. 28 against the Chargers, in Week 3 of the preseason.
We can't wait to #OpenTheGates!
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— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) June 22, 2016
