Shawnee, Kansas, is brewing up a serious celebration, having been chosen to host America’s Beer World Cup! This isn’t just a local beer event; it’s a massive showcase of American craft brewing talent, putting Kansas firmly on the map as a destination for serious beer enthusiasts. The event, set to take place March 16th and 17th, 2026, promises a weekend of unparalleled beer exploration, competition, and community engagement.
What’s Happening at the American Beer World Cup?
The American Beer World Cup is a whirlwind of competition and sampling as breweries from across the United States battle it out for the coveted title of “America’s Best Beer.” Attendees can expect a diverse range of beers, from classic IPAs and robust stouts to potentially some more experimental brews – think hazy New England IPAs, barrel-aged sours, and perhaps even some innovative wheat beers. Judging panels comprised of industry experts, beer bloggers, and seasoned tasters will be evaluating each entry based on a rigorous set of criteria. These judges will be assessing beers based on aroma, flavor complexity, appearance (color, clarity, head retention), and overall balance. The goal is to identify not just tasty beers, but those that represent the pinnacle of American craft brewing innovation and quality. Beyond the competition, the event will feature live music, food trucks offering a variety of culinary delights, and interactive beer education sessions.
Key Highlights & Participating Breweries:
The organizers are pulling out all the stops to create a truly memorable experience. As reported by *Craftbeer.com*, attendees can anticipate sampling a wide variety of styles, ensuring there’s something for every palate, regardless of their preferred beer genre. The event’s scale is significant, drawing in enthusiasts from across the country and, potentially, international visitors eager to experience the burgeoning American craft beer scene.
Currently, over 75 breweries have committed to participating in the competition. *Craftbeer.com* lists some of the anticipated heavy hitters, including:
* Boulevard Brewing Company (Kansas City, MO) – Known for their exceptional Belgian-style ales.
* Dogfish Head (Milton, DE) – Pioneers in innovative and experimental beer styles.
* Stone Brewing (Escondido, CA) – A consistently top-rated brewery with a wide range of beers.
* Victory Brewing Company (Downingtown, PA) – Celebrated for their hop-forward styles and commitment to quality.
* Firestone Walker Brewing Company (Paso Robles, CA) – Known for their iconic IPA’s.
* Lagunitas Brewing Company (Petaluma, CA) – A consistently popular brewery with a strong following.
* Several smaller, regionally renowned breweries will also be vying for the top spot, adding to the diversity of the competition.
Boosting Tourism and Local Businesses
The American Beer World Cup is expected to significantly boost tourism in the region. *All About Beer* highlights the opportunity to explore local pubs and restaurants offering beer specials and pairings during the festival. It’s a chance to support local businesses – from cozy neighborhood bars to upscale gastropubs – while enjoying some fantastic beer. The event organizers are actively encouraging local establishments to participate, creating a symbiotic relationship that benefits both the festival and the Shawnee community. The influx of visitors will undoubtedly provide a welcome economic boost to the area, further solidifying Shawnee’s position as a growing destination.
Resources for More Information:
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KCTV5.com:
[https://www.kctv5.com/2026/02/17/shawnee-celebrates-americana-beer-world-cup-pride-with-summer-festival/](https://www.kctv5.com/2026/02/17/shawnee-celebrates-americana-beer-world-cup-pride-with-summer-festival/) – The official news source for the event, offering up-to-date information on participating breweries, schedule details, and ticket sales.
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Craftbeer.com:
[https://www.craftbeer.com/](https://www.craftbeer.com/) – Provides detailed information on participating breweries, the event schedule, and interactive maps to help attendees plan their sampling routes.
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All About Beer:
[https://www.allaboutbeer.com/](https://www.allaboutbeer.com/) – Offers deeper insights into the event’s impact, including articles on the history of craft beer and profiles of key judges.
Last Call:
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to celebrate American craft brewing! Head to Shawnee, Kansas, and discover your new favorite beer. Just remember to drink responsibly and cheers to a hoppy good time! Secure your tickets early to avoid disappointment, and prepare for a weekend filled with exceptional beer and unforgettable experiences. The American Beer World Cup isn’t just a competition; it’s a celebration of the passion and innovation driving the craft beer movement in America.
