As early 2026 unfolds, New Jersey’s craft beer scene is wasting no time setting the tone for the year ahead. From rare, high-alcohol specialty releases to hands-on workshops and community-driven events, breweries across the state are offering drinkers a diverse slate of experiences that highlight both creativity and connection. Whether the focus is a coveted limited tapping or a casual midweek trivia night, the Garden State’s brewing community is leaning into winter with confidence and momentum.
Among the most anticipated releases is High Point Brewing Company’s Ice Storm Eisbock 2026, scheduled to be tapped on Saturday, January 17, beginning at 2 p.m. Known for its traditional German-style brewing approach, High Point’s eisbock is a naturally concentrated lager produced through freeze distillation. The result is a rich, warming beer with an alcohol content approaching 14 percent, making it one of the strongest and most sought-after offerings in the state. The release is expected to draw enthusiasts eager to sample a beer that is as technically demanding as it is rarely produced.
Carton Brewing is also starting the year with a familiar favorite reimagined for 2026. The latest edition of Regular Coffee, an imperial cream ale clocking in at 12 percent ABV, is designed to evoke the taste of classic New Jersey diner coffee—served with milk and two sugars, no fuss. The beer continues Carton’s reputation for blending local culture with inventive brewing, offering a nostalgic flavor profile wrapped in a bold, high-proof package.
In North Jersey, Brix City Brewing has announced upcoming distribution of Shakedown Jams, the newest addition to its popular “Jams” series. While details on the exact release date remain forthcoming, the brewery has also teased a robust lineup of collaborative projects planned throughout 2026, signaling another ambitious year once doors fully reopen.
Beyond new beer, the calendar is filled with events that emphasize social engagement and experiential offerings. On January 17, the Brew to Brew Train returns, giving passengers the chance to ride a vintage 1930s-era train between two South Jersey breweries. The event blends transportation history with modern craft beer culture, creating a uniquely New Jersey experience.
That same afternoon, Ship Bottom Brewery will host its annual chili cook-off from 2 to 4 p.m. in Beach Haven. The event pairs house-brewed beer with homemade chili entries, drawing both competitive cooks and casual tasters looking to escape the winter cold.
Montclair Brewery Mixes Live Music and Local Gaming for a January Full of Fun. Montclair Brewery continues to cement its reputation as a hub for craft beer and community connection, offering a lineup of events in January 2026 that blends live music, social gaming, and casual social experiences. Nestled in the heart of Montclair, the brewery has become a go-to destination for residents seeking both quality beer and engaging entertainment, creating a space where patrons can enjoy local flavor in more ways than one.
This month, the brewery’s signature Blues & Brews series highlights a mix of jazz, blues, and contemporary sounds. On Saturday, January 17, Jazzboat takes the stage at 7:30 PM, bringing smooth rhythms and improvisational energy that pair perfectly with the brewery’s rotating taps. The following day, Sunday, January 18, the Chris Raabe Band performs at 4:30 PM, delivering a lively set that draws in both music aficionados and casual listeners. Wrapping up the month on Friday, January 30, Rewilders will bring their eclectic, high-energy sound to the brewery, ensuring Montclair visitors have a diverse musical experience across the month.
For those interested in gaming and social gatherings, Montclair Brewery’s surrounding area offers unique opportunities. On Friday, January 23, at 7 PM, the nearby Eclectic Chic Boutique at 547 Bloomfield Avenue is hosting Game Nights: Dungeons & Dragons. This one-shot D&D event emphasizes quirky, chaotic, and playful campaigns, making it accessible for both newcomers and experienced players. While not located inside the brewery itself, the event’s proximity allows patrons to combine craft beer exploration with interactive gaming, offering a full evening of entertainment in Montclair.
Montclair Brewery’s approach demonstrates a careful balance between tradition and experimentation. While their beers continue to reflect the quality and craftsmanship that have made the brewery a local favorite, the programming showcases a commitment to fostering community, creativity, and inclusivity. Patrons can sip on a thoughtfully brewed IPA or lager while engaging in cultural events that bring neighbors together, creating lasting connections beyond the brewery’s taps.
The combination of live music and nearby social events reflects the brewery’s understanding that modern craft beer culture extends far beyond the liquid in the glass. It’s about shared experiences, discovery, and bringing people together in a space where everyone—from longtime residents to first-time visitors—feels welcome.
For readers seeking to explore Montclair’s vibrant beer and cultural scene, Montclair Brewery continues to offer a compelling destination. Between live performances, craft beer, and community-driven events like D&D game nights, the brewery exemplifies the creativity and spirit that make New Jersey’s brewing scene both unique and inviting.
Czig Meister Brewing welcomes the Cold Hill Band on January 24, while Jersey Girl Brewing hosts the Jukebox Trio on January 23, reinforcing the role breweries play as neighborhood entertainment hubs.
For those drawn to interactive nights, River Horse Brewing will host Music Bingo on January 31, while 902 Brewing Co. is opening the mic for a free karaoke night in Jersey City on January 23. Glenbrook Brewery continues its weekly Wednesday trivia tradition and adds a Knit ’N Sip workshop on January 29, blending crafting with casual socializing.
Educational experiences are also part of the lineup. Lone Eagle Brewing is hosting a guided tasting with “Bob the Beer Guy” on January 24, offering attendees an in-depth look at beer styles, flavor development, and brewing techniques for a ticketed price.
In Pompton Lakes, Pompton Craft House is adding a creative twist to its winter schedule with a Leather Coasters Workshop on Thursday, January 22, running from 7 to 9 p.m. Led in partnership with The Craft Club, the hands-on event invites participants to design and assemble their own leather coasters while enjoying drinks in a relaxed, high-energy setting.
Together, these releases and events reflect the continued growth and versatility of New Jersey’s craft beer landscape. For readers looking to explore more about the state’s vibrant breweries, Sunset Daily News continues to track the people, places, and pours shaping New Jersey’s beer culture as 2026 gets underway.
