It’s shaping up to be another big weekend for beer lovers in New Jersey. From long-awaited seasonal releases to small-batch surprises and community festivals, the state’s craft beer scene is once again proving why it’s among the most creative and dynamic in the country. Between November 7–9, 2025, breweries from Sussex County to Cape May are rolling out limited-edition pours, specialty events, and collaborations that showcase just how much local brewing has evolved.
One of the most anticipated returns this season is the Ramstein Winter Wheat 2025, crafted by High Point Brewing Company in Butler. This beloved annual release has become something of a seasonal tradition for New Jersey beer aficionados. The brewery’s Winter Wheat Doppelbock is a strong, malty German-style beer known for its deep caramel color, rich aroma, and smooth, full-bodied flavor. The release is tied to Ramstein’s popular open house event, where guests can enjoy the beer by the glass or pick up growlers, cans, and kegs to take home. For many, it marks the unofficial start of the winter beer season in the Garden State.
Adding a musical twist to the weekend’s beer lineup, Philadelphia’s synth-pop duo Work Drugs has teamed up with Double Nickel Brewing Company in Pennsauken to debut a brand-new collaboration IPA called “License to Thrive.” The beer’s official launch is scheduled for December during a live performance at the brewery, but fans might get an early taste in the taproom this weekend. Double Nickel is known for its smooth, balanced IPAs, so this collaboration promises to pair the band’s dreamy coastal vibe with a bright, aromatic hop character — the kind of beer that tastes like a good song feels.
Several of New Jersey’s most celebrated beer festivals are also taking place this weekend, each offering a chance to sample rare and one-off brews that are typically only available for a single day. The Beer BBQ Bacon Showdown in Rockaway brings together 30 New Jersey breweries, each presenting an exclusive or limited-edition beer brewed specifically for the event. Pair that with a plate of smoky barbecue and a side of live music, and it’s no wonder this festival has become one of the state’s most anticipated food and drink gatherings of the fall.
In Hackettstown, Czig Meister Brewing is hosting its Barrel Fest, an annual celebration of barrel-aged beer in all its complex, boozy glory. This year’s lineup includes more than 20 unique barrel-aged brews, ranging from deep, oaky stouts to tart sours and wild ales. For serious craft beer enthusiasts, Barrel Fest offers a deep dive into the artistry behind aging — each pour a testament to time, patience, and the brewer’s skill.
Beyond the big-ticket festivals, local taprooms and bottle shops are keeping things lively with smaller events and tastings. Petrock’s Liquors in Somerset is hosting its weekly beer tasting on Saturday, November 8, from 3 to 5 p.m., a perfect opportunity to sample some of the state’s best craft offerings in a casual, social setting.
Up north, Hackensack Brewing Company continues its weekday Happy Hour tradition, running Friday, November 7, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. The local favorite is offering $5 20-ounce pours and $1 off all other beers — an unbeatable way to kick off the weekend while supporting one of Bergen County’s most beloved small breweries.
And if you’re already planning your Thanksgiving season festivities, 3BR Distillery in Keyport is getting an early start with “Drinksgiving” on Wednesday, November 26, from 6 p.m. to midnight. The event will feature craft cocktails, shot specials, and extended hours in a lively, laid-back environment. It’s a free event that’s as much about community as it is about cocktails — a reminder that in New Jersey, the spirit of celebration starts long before the turkey hits the table.
With so many breweries, distilleries, and taprooms putting their best work on display, there’s never been a better time to explore the state’s vibrant craft beverage scene. Whether you’re hunting down the perfect seasonal pour, sampling limited releases, or soaking up the friendly atmosphere at your local brewery, this weekend in New Jersey is full of reasons to raise a glass.
Discover more about New Jersey’s growing craft beer culture and find local breweries near you by visiting Explore New Jersey’s Beer and Breweries.
