Craft Beer Responds to Boston Marathon Tragedy

The city of Boston has certainly demonstrated an attitude of unity and resilience since the tragic bombing at the Boston Marathon. From the parade-like showing of gratitude for law enforcement in Watertown following the apprehension of the second suspect, to the ceremony at Fenway Park on Saturday afternoon, the city has stood together in the face of adversity. As Red Sox slugger David Ortiz so aptly put it, "This is our f---ing city, and nobody's going to dictate our freedom." Even the FCC couldn't disagree.

Photo: http://jacksabbybrewing.com

Even Boston-area craft brewers are rising to the occasion. Jack's Abby, located in Framingham, MA and brewer of beers like Hoponius Union (a delicious India-style pale lager in case you were wondering), held a benefit for the victims of the bombing on April 17 at Tavern Framingham. Despite having less than 24 hours to arrange the event, an amazing 25 breweries donated beer and the event raised over $8,800. Gary Dzen (99 bottles, boston.com) reported that participating breweries included Ides & Marshall Wharf Brewing Company, Ipswich Ale Brewery, Tree House Brewing Co., LLC, Clown Shoes Beer, Allagash Brewing, Tuckerman Brewing, Atlantic Brewing, John Harvard's, Cape Ann Brewing, Night Shift Brewing, Oxbow Brewing. Maine Beer Company, Left Hand Brewing, Battle Road Brewing, and Brash Brewing. All monies were donated to the recently created One Fund Boston. You can make your own donation here.

Photo: http://beerstreetjournal.com

Boston Beer Company, brewer of Sam Adams Boston Lager and long-time sponsor of the Boston Marathon, has also announced that it will support the victims of the bombing by donating a portion of the profits from its new marathon-inspired beer, 26.2. The brewery will also be collecting donations for the victims during its brewery tours this month.

Photo: http://www.harpoonbrewery.com

Over on the other side of town, Harpoon Brewery will be donating 100% of the beer and pretzel sales from its next three "Brewed for Boston" Nights. The Nights take place on Tuesdays from 6 to 9 PM at the brewery's recently renovated beer hall. 

Such acts of kindness and selflessness make me even more proud to support craft beer. Cheers!