Planning a party or celebration and wondering where to get a keg of beer? You’re not alone! Many people face the same challenge, especially when trying to find the right brew for their gathering.
Key Takeaways
- Understand Keg Sizes: Familiarize yourself with different keg sizes, such as half barrels, quarter barrels, sixth barrels, and mini kegs, to select the right fit for your gathering.
- Explore Beer Styles: Choose from various beer styles like lagers, IPAs, stouts, and wheat beers to cater to guests’ diverse preferences.
- Local Retail Options: Visit nearby retailers and grocery stores for easier access to kegs, ensuring freshness and personalized service.
- Consider Breweries: Purchase kegs directly from breweries or microbreweries for unique, seasonal brews and the opportunity to sample prior to buying.
- Utilize Online Services: Take advantage of delivery services like Drizly and Saucey to conveniently order kegs online, while being mindful of delivery fees and local regulations.
- Renting vs. Buying: Weigh the pros and cons of renting versus buying a keg based on your event frequency, selection preferences, and budget considerations.
Understanding Kegs and Their Types
Kegs come in various sizes and types, catering to different needs and preferences. Understanding these options helps you choose the right keg for your event.
Common Keg Sizes
Kegs typically range in size, with several common formats available:
- Half Barrel (15.5 gallons): This standard size holds about 165 12-ounce servings. It’s ideal for large gatherings like weddings or parties.
- Quarter Barrel (7.75 gallons): Perfect for smaller events, this size provides around 82 12-ounce servings. It fits easily in smaller spaces.
- Sixth Barrel (5.16 gallons): This keg holds about 55 12-ounce servings. Suitable for intimate gatherings or home use.
- Mini Keg (1.32 gallons): This compact keg offers about 14 12-ounce servings. It’s great for small parties or BBQs.
Knowing these sizes helps you plan for the right amount of beer.
Different Beer Styles Available
Kegs offer a wide variety of beer styles to suit different tastes. Here are some popular options:
- Lager: This light, crisp beer is perfect for casual parties. Examples include Heineken and Budweiser.
- IPA (India Pale Ale): Known for its hoppy flavors, IPAs appeal to craft beer lovers. Look for local options for freshness.
- Stout: Rich and dark, stouts like Guinness are great for those who prefer a heavier beer.
- Wheat Beer: Refreshing and often fruity, wheat beers like Blue Moon work well on warm days.
You can often find these styles in various keg sizes, ensuring you cater to your guests’ preferences.
Local Retailers and Grocery Stores
Finding a keg of beer locally simplifies the process of hosting your next gathering. Local retailers and grocery stores often carry a range of kegs, making it convenient to pick up what you need.
Benefits of Purchasing Locally
- Accessibility: You can easily visit a nearby store, reducing the hassle of shipping and delivery fees.
- Freshness: Local retailers often stock fresher kegs compared to online options, ensuring better taste quality.
- Personal Service: Staff can provide personalized recommendations based on your preferences and event size.
- Immediate Availability: You can check stock directly and take your keg home the same day for last-minute parties.
Popular Retail Chains
Several well-known retail chains often stock kegs:
- Total Wine & More: This chain offers a vast selection of kegs, including local craft beers and popular brands.
- Costco: If you’re a member, Costco usually offers competitive pricing on keg purchases, making it a budget-friendly option.
- Walmart: Many Walmart locations carry kegs, particularly during peak party seasons.
- Kroger: Kroger often has a good selection of kegs and may offer discounts or promotions on certain brands.
- BevMo!: Known for its diverse alcohol offerings, BevMo! carries various keg sizes and styles.
By exploring local retailers and grocery stores, you can find the perfect keg for your event, ensuring your guests enjoy the beverages they love.
Breweries and Microbreweries
Breweries and microbreweries offer excellent direct purchase options for kegs. Many provide a unique selection of their craft beers, which can enhance your gathering.
Direct Purchase Options
You can buy kegs directly from local breweries and microbreweries. Many breweries allow customers to purchase kegs in various sizes, making it easy to find the right fit for your event. When visiting a brewery, you gain the advantage of sampling different beers before deciding on a keg. Some well-known breweries, like Sierra Nevada and Dogfish Head, regularly stock a range of keg options.
To ensure that your preferred beer is available, call ahead or check the brewery’s website for their current selection. Also, consider visiting during special events, as breweries often showcase limited edition brews.
Availability of Unique Brews
Breweries and microbreweries frequently offer unique and seasonal beers. Many craft breweries produce limited releases that aren’t found at larger retailers. For example, you might discover pumpkin-flavored ales in the fall or fruity IPAs during summer.
These unique options can impress your guests with something different from the usual choices. To find new brews, stay connected with your local breweries via social media or newsletters. Many places offer pre-orders for popular seasonal kegs, ensuring you don’t miss out.
Online Options for Ordering Kegs
Ordering a keg of beer online offers convenience and access to a wider selection. Use these options to simplify the process and ensure you find the perfect keg for your event.
Delivery Services
Delivery services revolutionize how you obtain kegs. Many retailers and dedicated delivery companies provide online ordering, allowing you to browse selections from home.
- Drizly: This app connects you to local liquor stores that deliver beer right to your door. Browse kegs from various styles and brands, and.
- Saucey: This service offers same-day delivery for kegs in select markets. Choose from a range of popular beers, including craft options.
- BeerMenus: This website helps you locate kegs at nearby retailers and breweries, often featuring real-time availability. You can also place orders for pickup or delivery depending on local stores.
Important Considerations for Online Orders
Considerations for online keg orders ensure a smooth experience. Pay attention to these key points:
- Delivery Fees: Check for any associated delivery charges. Fees can vary by service and location.
- Minimum Order Requirements: Some services impose minimum order sizes, especially for kegs. Confirm this to avoid surprises during checkout.
- Age Verification: Expect to provide proof of age upon delivery. Valid identification will typically be required.
- Local Regulations: Be aware of your state or city’s laws regarding keg purchases and deliveries. Some areas have specific restrictions.
- Refund Policies: Understand the return policies for kegs and any unused beer, especially for online retailers.
- Availability Check: Confirm the availability of your desired keg before finalizing your order. Stock can fluctuate, particularly before major holidays.
Using these tips, you can navigate online keg purchases with ease and confidence.
Renting vs. Buying a Keg
Choosing between renting and buying a keg involves weighing different benefits and considerations. Understanding these options helps you make an informed decision for your event.
Pros and Cons of Renting
Pros
- Cost-Effective: Renting a keg from a local store often costs less upfront compared to buying one. This is ideal for casual gatherings or smaller parties.
- Convenience: Many rental services include equipment like taps. You won’t need to worry about purchasing or transporting extra gear.
- Flexibility: Renting allows you to choose various beer styles without committing to a full purchase. You can sample different options for one-time events.
Cons
- Deposit Fees: Most rental companies require a deposit, which can be substantial. If you return the keg damaged, you might lose part or all of that deposit.
- Limited Selection: Rental options might not offer the full variety of beer styles or brands you desire, limiting your choices.
- Hassle of Return: After the event, returning the keg can be inconvenient, especially if you’re dealing with logistics post-party.
When to Consider Purchasing
Long-Term Use: If you frequently host events, buying a keg saves money over time. You can refill it as desired, making it a better investment than renting for repeated use.
Preference for Selection: Purchasing enables you to choose from a broader range of beers, including specialty or seasonal selections from breweries.
Personal Consumption: If you’re planning an event for personal enjoyment, owning a keg allows you to enjoy beer at your leisure without rental costs.
Home Brewing: If you’re into home brewing, buying a keg makes sense for storage and serving your creations effectively while keeping them fresh.
Deciding whether to rent or buy a keg depends on your specific needs, event frequency, and preferred beer styles.
Conclusion
Finding the right keg of beer for your next gathering doesn’t have to be a headache. With a bit of research and creativity you can explore local retailers breweries and online platforms to discover the perfect brew for your event.
Whether you opt for a classic lager or a unique craft beer there’s a world of flavors waiting for you. Plus the convenience of local options means you can grab your keg and get ready to impress your guests.
So go ahead and plan that celebration knowing you’ve got the tools to make it a hit. Cheers to great beer and even better memories!
Frequently Asked Questions
What sizes do kegs come in?
Kegs come in various sizes to match different event needs. Common sizes include the Half Barrel (15.5 gallons), Quarter Barrel (7.75 gallons), Sixth Barrel (5.16 gallons), and Mini Keg (1.32 gallons). Choosing the right size depends on your gathering’s size and your guests’ drinking preferences.
Where can I buy kegs?
You can purchase kegs from local retailers, grocery stores, or directly from breweries. Popular chains include Total Wine & More, Costco, Walmart, Kroger, and BevMo!. Buying local helps ensure freshness and allows for same-day pickup.
What types of beer are available in kegs?
Kegs are available in various beer styles such as Lager, IPA, Stout, and Wheat Beer. This variety allows you to cater to your guests’ diverse tastes and ensure everyone finds something they enjoy at your event.
Should I rent or buy a keg?
Renting a keg is often more cost-effective for casual events but may limit your beer choices. Buying a keg is better for frequent hosts, offering a wider selection and the advantage of enjoying beer at your leisure. Your choice should depend on your hosting habits.
Can I order kegs online?
Yes, you can order kegs online through platforms like Drizly, Saucey, and BeerMenus. This provides convenience and access to a wider selection, but remember to check delivery fees, age verification, and local regulations before placing an order.
What are the benefits of buying from breweries?
Purchasing kegs directly from breweries or microbreweries allows access to unique craft beer selections and seasonal brews. Many breweries offer tastings, which lets you sample different beers before deciding, ensuring a delightful experience for your guests.
