36th annual National Homebrewers Conference in Grand Rapids June 12-14

More than 1.2 million people brew their own beer at home in the United States and Michigan is home to an estimated 40,000 of them.

Mark your calendar. The National Homebrewers Conference is heading to Beer City USA. From June 12-14, more than 3,000 homebrewers and beer enthusiasts from all over the United States will flow into the River City for the 36th annual National Homebrewers Conference, the world’s largest gathering of homebrewers. Set to take place at the DeVos Place Convention Center in downtown Grand Rapids, Mich., the event — hosted by the American Homebrewers Association (AHA ) — provides a platform for homebrewers to unite to learn and share about their craft.

With 80 presenters scheduled, including keynote speakers Dave Engbers and Mike Stevens of Founders Brewing Co., guests will have the opportunity to participate in 55 different seminars covering topics ranging from practical and experimental brewing to making a living crafting beer. Additionally, the Homebrew Expo and Beer City Social Club will feature several dozen companies showcasing the latest and coolest in tools, gadgets, equipment and the like for homebrewers.

“The last few years, we’ve really seen a tremendous surge in the number of people participating in the hobby of homebrewing. Our mission at the American Homebrewers Association is to provide this growing community with the tools and resources they need to brew the best beer in the world,” said AHA Director Gary Glass. “The National Homebrewers Conference adds the important ingredients of education and socializing to the homebrewing mix.”

More than 1.2 million people brew their own beer at home in the United States and Michigan is home to an estimated 40,000 of them.

The conference is also home to the final round of judging in the National Homebrew Competition, the world’s largest beer competition, which recognizes the most outstanding homebrewed beer, mead and cider produced by amateur brewers worldwide. The event culminates with the Grand Banquet during the competition awards ceremony. Sean Paxton, the Homebrew Chef, will be cooking up an assortment of dishes paired with craft beers from banquet sponsor Samuel Adams.

“Participating in the National Homebrew Competition puts homebrewers on the world’s stage,” added Glass. “It’s an exciting time for the community to rally together to cheer on their own creations, as well as their fellow homebrewers.”