Rhode Island Brew Fest

Rhode Island Brew Fest is a grand tasting event held annually in January at the Waterfire Arts Center in Providence, Rhode Island — featuring 50+ breweries and over 200 beer styles across two 3-hour sessions. Now in its 13th year, the festival samples American craft beer from local and national producers, with unlimited tastings included in every ticket. General Admission costs $60; Designated Driver tickets are $20 and include non-alcoholic beverages and snacks. Every attendee receives a branded pint glass upon exit, and food vendors offer samples and full meals for purchase on-site.

The festival operates two back-to-back sessions on the same day—1:00–4:00 PM and 5:30–8:30 PM—allowing flexibility for different schedules. Check-in begins 30 minutes before each session opens. The event is strictly 21+ with ID verification at the door; no exceptions are made. Parking is available on-site at the Arts Center and surrounding lots on a first-come, first-served basis. Indoor venue means outdoor queues can form, so dress for weather accordingly.

Tickets are refundable up to 30 days before the event. The festival recommends designating a driver, using rideshare, or calling a taxi in advance. Merchandise and branded shirts are available for purchase on-site. Note: service animals are welcome, but pets are not permitted. As of the 2026 event, both sessions sold out completely, indicating strong demand for this Rhode Island craft beer tradition.