Mead, the ancient honey-based drink, is making a massive comeback in the U.S. With its growing popularity, mead festivals have become cultural phenomena, offering enthusiasts a chance to taste unique brews, attend workshops, and celebrate the craft. Whether you’re a seasoned mead lover or a curious newcomer, attending these festivals is a must. Here are the top 10 mead festivals in the U.S. you can’t miss!
1. MeadCon
Where: San Diego, California and Roanoke, Virginia
When: October / September
MeadCon is one of the most significant mead festivals in the mead community. Hosted by the American Mead Makers Association, it gathers mead enthusiasts, homebrewers, and professional meadmakers from around the country.
Activities
- Seminars on mead making and industry trends
- Tasting sessions with various meaderies
- Competitions showcasing the best meads
Notable Meaderies
You’ll find top meaderies like Lost Cause Meadery, and Atheling Meadworks featured at MeadCon.
Visitor Information
- Tickets range from $50 to $150, depending on the package.
- San Diego offers plenty of accommodations and attractions nearby. For Roanoke, consider staying at the nearby Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center.
Check out more details on MeadCon’s official page.
2. Texas Mead Festival
Where: Rohan Meadery, La Grange, Texas
When: September
This festival highlights the rich culture of Texas mead, featuring local meaderies and traditional Texan music.
Activities
- Local food vendors offering Texas-style treats
- Craft workshops and mead-making tutorials
Visitor Information
- Tickets are priced around $25 and can be purchased at the event.
- The festival is family-friendly and offers ample parking.
Find more information on the Texas Mead Festival’s website.
3. Great Lakes Mead Festival
Where: Midland, Michigan
When: August
Located in the heart of the Great Lakes region, this festival offers a unique mead experience, celebrating local brews alongside regional food pairings.
Activities
- Mead tastings from over 50 regional meaderies
- Pairing sessions that feature local foods
Visitor Information
- Tickets and pricing vary, with early bird options available.
- Midland is known for its summer activities and parks, providing additional entertainment for visitors.
Discover more at the Great Lakes Beer Festival page.
4. California Mead Festival
Where: Alta Vista Botanical Gardens, Vista, California
When: April
The California Mead Festival, also known as Meading at the Garden, is one of the largest mead festivals on the West Coast. It features over 30 meaderies, cideries, and breweries.
Activities
- Live music and performances throughout the day
- Homebrewing competitions with local and international participants
Visitor Information
- Tickets and packages are available for different tasting options.
- Vista offers numerous travel and lodging options, making it an easy destination for out-of-state visitors.
Learn more at Meading at the Garden’s official site.
5. Mazer Cup International
Where: Broomfield, Colorado
When: Annually in April
The Mazer Cup International is the world’s largest mead competition, drawing participants from across the globe.
Activities
- Tasting sessions providing a chance to try award-winning meads
- Educational panels with industry experts
Visitor Information
- Limited ticket availability, with prices starting at $100.
- Broomfield offers a variety of amenities and is situated conveniently near Denver.
Explore more details on the Mazer Cup International website.
6. Pennsylvania Mead Festival
Where: Mount Hope Estate & Winery, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania
When: TBA
Set in the scenic Lancaster County, this festival showcases Pennsylvania’s mead culture alongside local artisan crafts.
Activities
- Local artisans displaying crafts and goods
- Food pairings with regional specialties
Visitor Information
- Entry tickets are reasonably priced and can be purchased on-site.
- Nearby accommodations include a range of hotels and bed-and-breakfasts.
Check out more on the Mount Hope Estate & Winery page.
7. New England Mead Festival
Where: Franklin County Fairgrounds, Massachusetts
When: June
This festival dives deep into New England’s rich history of mead making, combining traditional aspects with modern twists.
Activities
- Live music from regional bands
- Meet-and-greet sessions with local meaderies
Visitor Information
- Tickets are available online.
- The fairgrounds offer ample space for parking and camping.
Discover more at Mutton & Mead’s website.
8. Florida Mead Fest
Where: Dade City, Florida
When: Annually in February
Hosted in a warm, coastal climate, this is one of the mead festivals that blends beach vibes with mead tastings.
Activities
- Beach-themed events and games
- Tropical food pairings that complement the meads
Visitor Information
- Early bird tickets are available online.
- Consider exploring Florida’s beautiful coasts and nearby attractions.
Learn more at Bay Area Renaissance Festival.
9. Midwest Mead Festival
Where: Decatur, Michigan
When: July
This festival shines a spotlight on the Midwest’s contribution to mead production.
Activities
- Collaborative brewing sessions with local meaderies
- Live music and entertainment from local artists
Visitor Information
- Various ticket options, including family packages.
- Transportation is convenient, with ample parking facilities.
Find more details on the Midwest Fest page.
10. Atlanta Meadery Festival
Where: Atlanta, Georgia
When: Annually in June
Atlanta’s mead scene is experiencing a resurgence, making this festival a hub for mead innovation and tradition.
Activities
- Food trucks offering local cuisine
- Workshops and educational programs on mead making
Visitor Information
- Ticket prices are competitive, with group discounts available.
- Atlanta offers excellent travel options and numerous attractions.
Read more at Monks Meadery site.
What to Expect at Mead Festivals
Tastings
One of the primary attractions is the extensive variety of meads available for tasting. Expect to find everything from traditional honey meads to innovative flavor combinations.
Education
Many festivals offer workshops and seminars where you can learn about the history of mead, the process of making it, and emerging trends in the industry.
Community
These festivals are more than just a place to try new drinks. They’re a chance to connect with other mead enthusiasts, meet the people behind your favorite brands, and celebrate this timeless beverage.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Prepare Ahead: Purchase tickets in advance and check the schedule for any special events or workshops you want to attend.
- What to Bring: Bring a valid ID, some cash for vendors, and comfortable shoes for walking around.
- Stay Hydrated: With all the tastings, it’s essential to stay hydrated. Bring a water bottle, or plan to buy water at the event.
Conclusion
Attending mead festivals is a fantastic way to explore different meaderies, learn about mead-making, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. These events not only celebrate the rich history of mead but also promote local meaderies and their innovative creations.
FAQs
What is mead made from?
Mead is an alcoholic beverage made primarily from honey, water, and yeast. Various fruits, spices, grains, and hops can be added to create different flavors.
Is mead gluten-free?
Yes, traditional mead is gluten-free as it’s made from honey, water and yeast.
