December 16, 2020

The craft beer boom in Springfield has been incredible. Several new breweries have popped up in the Queen City, including Hold Fast Brewing (2019) and Lost Signal Brewing Company (2017) right here in Downtown Springfield.

But there might not have been any boom without Springfield Brewing Company. The brewery, restaurant and bar celebrates its 23rd Anniversary this weekend! Here’s a look back at BrewCo and a preview of the celebration.

Cornerstone

“Craft beer” was a foreign concept back in 1997. But then the Paul Mueller Company decide to create a showcase for their one-of-a-kind stainless steel brewery tanks and everything changed. BrewCo started serving up delicious beers and great food, including its classic mac-and-cheese.

The operation changed hands in 2011, when brewmaster Ashton Lewis and friends purchased the operation from Mueller. The mission of creating award-winning craft brews and great food didn’t change, though. Springfield Brewing Company currently focuses on true-to-tradition English, German and American style ales and lagers. BrewCo continues to win award for its beers, including a World Beer Cup gold for Mayhem Marzen and a Great American Beer Festival gold for Bull Creek Brown.

The beer lineup will look a little different in the future. Some of the old flagships will be retired, with Blue Canoe American Pale Ale and 417 Lager among the beers stepping to the forefront. That commitment to quality will still be the same.

Collaboration

BrewCo doesn’t just exist in Downtown Springfield, it has become a special part of the neighborhood. They team up with Mudhouse Coffee on its seasonal Mudhouse Stout, a delicious coffee stout made with a blend of crystal, chocolate and roasted malts, and Cascade finish hops.

They’ve also partnered with non-profit organizations on special brews. Their Community Tap program launched with On Your Left! Keller Pils, benefitting Ozark Greenways. A portion of the proceeds from each pint sold helps OG maintain our local greenway trail system.

Blue Canoe is a partnership with the James River Basin Partnership to help improve and protect the water quality of the springs, streams, rivers and lakes in the James River watershed. And now there’s The Original 330 with Community Partnership of the Ozarks. This beer is a Kolsch-style ale.

Celebration

Now it’s time to say cheers to 23 years. This Sunday, Dec. 20, visit BrewCo for an all-day celebration, including

• Brunch from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
• Full brewpub menu from 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
• Free live music from Dallas Jones and Molly Healey from 5-8 p.m.
• Cake
• Exclusive beer
• Food features
• Throwback beer pricing from 1997 on their classic brews
• Giveaways

and much more. Make sure to RSVP to their Facebook event as they announce special beer releases and more party details.

Cheers!