Real, Wild & Woody Craft Beer Festival Is Back for Summer 2016

No, Real, Wild & Woody is not a group hike or camping trip, but a craft beer festival happening on July 23 at the Phoenix Convention Center. And for those not in the know, know Real, Wild & Woody means cask beer (the type of brew served from the same...

By Lauren Cusimano

July 1, 2016

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No, Real, Wild & Woody is not a group hike or camping trip, but a craft beer festival happening on July 23 at the Phoenix Convention Center.

And for those not in the know, know Real, Wild & Woody means cask beer (the type of brew served from the same spot it which it was fermented); Brettanomyces qualities (Brett being a strain of yeast that gives beer an earthy taste); and barrel-aged brews. Now that you’ve been briefed, here’s what to expect at the third annual event.

Presented by the Arizona Craft Brewers Guild, Real, Wild & Woody 2016 will feature more than 50 craft brewers from 2 to 6 p.m. at Phoenix Convention Center’s South Building, plus food and live music. Breweries handing out samples and ready to mingle will include Dark Sky Brewing Co., Mother Road Brewing Company, THAT Brewing Company, and more.

Food tastings will include beer-paired bites from Pig & Pickle, The Brat Haus, Texas BBQ, The Perch Pub & Brewery, and Traveling Monk. Musical performances will kick off with The Hour Glass Cats at noon, followed by Sugar Thieves and Tommy Price and the Stilettos.

According to the press release, “the event's limited ticket sales will again ensure an intimate, up-close-and-personal craft beer-drinking experience.” The event is also is expected to sell out.

General admission costs $57, and includes 20 beer-sampling tickets, a commemorative glass, small bites from local restaurants, and shows. Designated driver passes run $25 for entrance and food samples. Tickets may be purchased at the Phoenix Convention Center Box Office or at the Real, Wild & Woody website.

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Lauren Cusimano was the Phoenix New Times food editor from 2018 to 2021. Joys include eating wings, riding bikes, knowing everyone at the bar, talking too much about The Simpsons, and falling asleep while reading.