New Jersey’s craft beer scene is embracing the holiday season with a spirited mix of Friendsgiving gatherings, special beer releases, and festive brewery events that promise something for every enthusiast. Keyport’s 3BR Distillery is leading the charge with its Friendsgiving Karaoke event on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Hosted by the lively Jukebox Jake, the evening invites friends and neighbors to take the stage, belt out their favorite tunes, and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere of one of New Jersey’s standout distilleries. The event is free to attend, and NJCB members receive 10% off their bill at 7 Main Street. More information is available on Explore New Jersey’s beer and brewery section.

The Friendsgiving celebration at 3BR Distillery is just one of many Thanksgiving-themed events happening across the Garden State this November. Breweries and pubs are rolling out live music, themed specials, and extended hours, making this season one of the most vibrant times to experience New Jersey’s craft beverage scene.

Thanksgiving Eve Highlights:

• Czig Meister Brewing in Rahway hosts its annual Thanksgiving Eve Party on Wednesday, November 26, featuring live music from The Tonighters and a selection of beer and hard seltzer specials.
• 3BR Distillery celebrates “Drinksgiving” the same evening, serving craft cocktails, unique shots, and holiday-inspired drinks from 6 p.m. to midnight.
• Fort Nonsense Brewing Company in Hillsborough welcomes Water Street, an Indie-Americana band, for a lively evening starting at 6 p.m.
• Ark Pub & Eatery in Brick opens its doors for a Kegs & Eggs brunch on Thanksgiving morning from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., combining hearty breakfast options with craft beer.
• Diamond Spring Brewing Company in Barnegat pairs live music from Jeff & Nick with seasonal beer offerings on November 26, while also hosting trivia night on Thanksgiving Day.

Black Friday and Weekend Beer Events:

• Zed’s Beer in Marlton throws its “Back at Zed’s on Black Friday!” party starting at 6 p.m., featuring live music and freshly brewed craft beer.
• The 1st Annual Black Friday Anniversary Beer Trail Run (location TBD) invites participants to combine fitness with a love of local brews, kicking off at 11 a.m.
• Pinelands Brewing Co. in Little Egg Harbor hosts a Sip & Shop event on Saturday, November 22, allowing visitors to browse local artisan vendors while enjoying craft beer.
• Jersey Girl Brewing Company in Mount Olive celebrates local artisans with a two-day Crafts and Drafts holiday shopping event on November 8 and 9.
• Old Hights Brewing Company in Hightstown features live music from Sawmill Run on Saturday, November 29, paired with seasonal beer offerings.

Seasonal Beer Releases and Special Brews:
Thanksgiving and the broader holiday season in New Jersey bring out a diverse range of beers beyond the ubiquitous pumpkin ale. Brewers are emphasizing richer, darker, and more complex flavors that complement the hearty meals of the season.

• Pumpkin and spiced beers remain a fan favorite, with breweries like Bonesaw Brewing Co. showcasing nationally recognized Pum-Queen Vanilla Pumpkin Spice Cream Ale, while Beach Haus Brewery in Belmar offers its seasonal Pumptoberfest.
• Stouts and porters provide robust, comforting flavors ideal for pairing with desserts and holiday feasts. Notable examples include Oakflower’s First Cup, an oatmeal stout with coffee notes, and Ghost Hawk’s Ravendark, a foreign-style stout infused with cocoa and coffee.
• Winter warmers and holiday ales are crafted to be savored slowly, featuring higher ABVs and spiced profiles. Breweries like Kane Brewing have released Belgian Strong Ales with apple cider, while King’s Road Brewing offers the seasonal Winter Warmer Holiday Ale. Source Farmhouse Brewery in Colts Neck highlights creative takes like triple cream ales with coffee and pumpkin spice.
• Fruit-forward and cranberry-inspired beers add a festive touch to holiday menus. Releases such as Palm Tree Christmas, a tropical milkshake DIPA featuring tangerine, cranberry, and pomegranate purée, showcase the innovation and seasonal creativity of New Jersey brewers.

For those looking to explore these seasonal offerings, local breweries, taprooms, and specialty liquor stores are the best places to find limited-edition releases and special holiday beers. Whether you’re raising a glass at 3BR Distillery, exploring craft-focused events around the state, or discovering rare seasonal brews, New Jersey’s beer scene delivers a festive, flavorful backdrop for Thanksgiving and beyond.

For a full roundup of New Jersey brewery events, seasonal releases, and beer-centric gatherings this holiday season, visit Explore New Jersey’s beer and brewery hub.