The German Society celebrates heritage with Philly Bierfest 2016

Sample local German-style beers and imports

It's not a classic German celebration without traditional food and music.
File Art/for PhillyVoice

Philly Bierfest, hosted by the German Society of Pennsylvania, will return for Year 5 on Feb. 27. The German Society is the nation's oldest German-American cultural organization, founded in 1762, and will use the festival to highlight Pennsylvania's historic and cultural ties to Germany -- and yes, that includes the extensive list of local, German-style beers.

Besides offering a range of Pilsners, Lagers, Kölsches, Doppelbocks, Schwarzbiers, Dunkels and Goses to taste, Philly Bierfest will offer a history lesson on the brews.

Also, this year, the female athletes of Philly Roller Derby will be pouring beers and arm wrestling to raise funds for their organization, the Society and trade group Brewers of Pennsylvania. A Berlin-style "Beerlesque" show and live Polka and Bluegrass music will add to the entertainment.

Tickets start at $48 for general admission but VIP packages offer access to souvenirs, early entry and a cheese and beer pairing class at the festival.


Philly Bierfest 2016

Saturday, Feb. 27
1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. | $48 general admission
The German Society of Pennsylvania
611 Spring Garden St.