The Kansas Craft Brewers Expo Recap
(Credit: Tembla Bohle/Pexels)
The Kansas Craft Brewers Expo is one of the most anticipated annual events for beer enthusiasts, celebrating the state’s rich craft beer culture. Held at Abe & Jake’s Landing in Lawrence, Kansas, the 2025 edition took place on Saturday, March 1.
Attendees enjoyed a vibrant atmosphere featuring a diverse lineup of breweries, engaging activities, and a strong sense of community. The event was divided into two sessions: the first from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM and the second from 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM. With over 40 Kansas breweries showcasing their best craft beers, the expo provided a premier experience for craft beer lovers.
The Venue: Abe & Jake’s Landing
Abe & Jake’s Landing, located in the heart of Downtown Lawrence, provided an ideal setting for the Kansas Craft Brewers Expo. Situated along the banks of the Kansas River, this historic venue combines rustic charm with modern amenities. The exposed brick walls, spacious layout, and scenic views created a welcoming environment for attendees to enjoy their craft beer experience.
The venue’s central location made it convenient for both locals and visitors traveling from different parts of Kansas and beyond. Parking and transportation options were easily available, ensuring attendees could focus on enjoying the event without logistical concerns. The accessibility of Abe & Jake’s Landing contributed to the seamless flow of the expo’s activities.
Breweries and Beer Selections
The 2025 Kansas Craft Brewers Expo featured an impressive lineup of over 40 breweries from across the state. Each brewery presented a variety of craft beers, showcasing unique styles, flavors, and brewing techniques. The diversity of beer selections highlighted Kansas’ growing reputation in the craft beer industry.
Many breweries took the opportunity to introduce exclusive, limited-edition beers crafted specifically for the expo. Attendees had the chance to sample one-of-a-kind brews that were not available elsewhere. These specialty beers ranged from experimental IPAs to bold stouts and crisp lagers, reflecting the creativity and innovation of Kansas brewers.
Among the standout offerings, whiskey barrel-aged beers gained particular attention, with several breweries presenting rich, complex brews that had been aged in bourbon barrels to enhance their depth of flavor.
(Credit: Kentucky Department of Travel and Tourism)
Session Timings and Structure
The event was divided into two sessions to accommodate a larger crowd while maintaining an enjoyable atmosphere. The first session took place from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, and the second session ran from 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM. This format allowed attendees to choose a time slot that best suited their schedule while ensuring brewers had ample time to engage with guests.
Each session featured a slightly different lineup of beers and brewery presentations. Some breweries introduced special releases exclusively available in one of the two sessions, encouraging attendees to explore both time slots. This variation added excitement to the event, giving craft beer enthusiasts a reason to return for the second session.
Activities and Attractions
The Kansas Craft Brewers Expo was not just about beer; it also featured a diverse range of food vendors offering delicious pairings to complement the craft brews. Attendees enjoyed gourmet burgers, artisan pretzels, barbecue, and more, making the event a full sensory experience.
A dedicated selfie station allowed attendees to capture memorable moments with friends and fellow beer lovers. The expo also provided souvenir glasses, giving guests a keepsake to remember their experience. These glasses were custom-designed for the 2025 event, adding a collectible element for returning visitors.
Community and Collaboration
The event was produced by The Free State Brewing Company, Kansas Craft Brewers Guild, Downtown Lawrence, and Abe & Jake’s Landing. These organizations worked together to create an event that celebrated Kansas’ craft beer culture while fostering a sense of camaraderie among brewers and attendees.
The Kansas Craft Brewers Expo brought together a diverse audience, from casual beer drinkers to industry professionals. This inclusive environment encouraged conversations about brewing techniques, flavor profiles, and the future of craft beer in Kansas. The strong community presence made the expo more than just a tasting event—it was a celebration of shared passion.
Impact on the Local Economy
With hundreds of attendees flocking to Lawrence for the expo, local businesses experienced a significant boost. Restaurants, bars, and hotels benefited from the influx of visitors, reinforcing the event’s positive economic impact on the city.
The expo provided an essential platform for breweries to promote their brands and expand their customer base. Many brewers reported an increase in sales and brand recognition following the event, highlighting its importance for the continued growth of Kansas’ craft beer industry.
The Role of Kansas Sports Betting
While craft beer enthusiasts gathered at the Kansas Craft Brewers Expo to sample the finest brews in the state, sports fans had another reason to celebrate. With Kansas embracing legal sports betting, attendees could explore the latest offerings from Kansas sportsbooks, adding even more excitement to their weekend festivities.
Many attendees enjoyed placing bets on their favorite teams while sampling Kansas’ best craft beers. The expo created a lively atmosphere where sports fans could engage in both their passions—great beer and exciting game action. The integration of sports betting into the weekend’s festivities showcased how Kansas is evolving in both the craft beer and sports entertainment industries.
The Future of the Kansas Craft Brewers Expo
The success of the 2025 event solidified the Kansas Craft Brewers Expo as a must-attend gathering for beer enthusiasts. Organizers are already discussing plans to expand the event in future years, potentially introducing more breweries, interactive workshops, and new locations to accommodate growing demand.
As the Kansas craft beer industry continues to flourish, the expo remains a pivotal event in promoting local breweries and fostering community engagement. With each passing year, it strengthens its reputation as a premier destination for craft beer lovers.
The Kansas Craft Brewers Expo 2025 not only highlighted the diversity and creativity of Kansas breweries but also reinforced the event’s significance in the state’s cultural and economic landscape. With a perfect blend of exceptional craft beer and community spirit, this year’s expo set the stage for even bigger and better celebrations in the future.
