If you’ve got a passion for craft beer and a love for local stories, Asheville is the place to be right now. Beer Week 2025 is officially underway—and the opening night was nothing short of electric.
We launched the celebration in South Slope, Asheville’s beating heart of brewing, where the streets were buzzing and the taps were flowing. But the moment everyone was talking about? The long-awaited return of Barley’s Pizza. Reopened just in time for the festivities, the iconic spot welcomed beer lovers with open arms and a renewed spirit. While the pizza ovens weren’t cranking at full speed yet, the cocktails and drafts made up for it—and the vibe was pure Asheville magic.
Honoring a Legend: Oscar Wong
As we toasted to the kickoff, we also raised a glass to Oscar Wong, the pioneer who sparked Asheville’s craft beer revolution. It all began in the basement of Barley’s, where Oscar brewed up his now-legendary Gaelic Ale—and secretly piped it to the main bar upstairs. Word spread, lines formed down the block, and a beer legacy was born.
As Highland Brewing grew, so did the crew that helped make it happen. Moonshiner Gary was there pushing things forward, and Jimi, a behind-the-scenes visionary, helped shape Asheville’s beer identity by choosing G Social Media to share the story with the world. These are the people who laid the foundation for Beer City USA.
Stories of Strength
The evening also reminded us of Asheville’s resilience. We caught up with a friend who used to work at Salvage Station—a survivor of the hurricane, now celebrating life, laughter, and a strong pour among friends. These personal stories are what give Asheville its soul.
Come Raise a Glass
Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or just here for the good vibes, Beer Week is about more than just what’s in the glass—it’s about the people who fill it. Come down to Barley’s, explore South Slope, and be part of the celebration that honors Asheville’s brewing roots and its bold, community-driven future.
Asheville Beer Week 2025 has begun. Let’s make it unforgettable.
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