The Great American Beer Festival (GABF) is set to undergo significant changes for its 2026 iteration, with tickets going on sale to the public on June 25. This year marks a historic shift for the fest, moving from its longtime venue at the Colorado Convention Center to the more outdoor-oriented Levitt Pavilion in southwest Denver’s Ruby Hill neighborhood.

This venue transformation is just one of several changes aimed at reshaping the atmosphere of the festival. With the event scheduled for October 10-11, it promises to create a different experience than in years past. In addition to a new location, the 2026 GABF will feature a lower ticket price, reduced attendance numbers, and a daytime schedule, transitioning from its traditional evening format to a more music festival vibe.

Attendees will have to plan their transportation in advance, as fewer parking spaces will be available. Most festivalgoers are expected to utilize pre-booked shuttles, ride-sharing services, or public transport, with shuttle costs estimated around $20.

Levitt Pavilion’s executive director, Meghan McNamara, expressed excitement about the new format, noting the venue’s history of hosting cultural events and concerts. The pavilion offers a plethora of green space, allowing attendees to choose their level of involvement—whether sitting and relaxing under a tree or dancing to live music.

However, not all breweries are convinced of the venue change. Some have raised concerns about logistics, the weather, and how the alterations might affect attendance and engagement. Historically, GABF drew upwards of 60,000 people annually, but attendance numbers dipped after returning from a hiatus due to COVID-19, as a nationwide trend towards declining craft beer novelty set in.

The maximum capacity at Levitt Pavilion is 6,500 people per event; hence, GABF will have considerably fewer attendees than in previous years. Historically, hundreds of volunteers helped pour beers, but breweries are now expected to have staff on-site as volunteers will not be provided.

Tickets for the 2026 GABF will be priced at $60, with an additional fee, while the popular paired food-and-beer event returns at $170.38. Organizers hope the new venue and festival format will reinvigorate interest and attract attendees back to this beloved annual celebration of craft beer.

For more information about tickets and festival logistics, visit greatamericanbeerfestival.com.