Let's breweriesinpa.com look at something that’s close to my heart after 15 years of wandering through Pennsylvania's craft beer scene: breweries that don’t just serve great beer but also bring people together. If you’re like me, you’re not just after a cold pint—you want to feel connected with your neighbors, find a chill spot where your kids (or non-drinking friends) are welcome, and support local businesses that actually *care* about the community.
It’s easy to get lost in the buzz of loud, corporate-feeling taprooms or run-of-the-mill bars where the only thing on tap is the same old commercial lager. But PA is packed with breweries that go beyond the beer and make their spaces real third places—where folks gather for more than just drinking. These are places that host community focused events, run brewery fundraisers in PA, and release special charity beer releases that benefit local causes.
So, if you’re hunting for weekend plans that give back, or just want to find a brewery where you can have a meaningful conversation and maybe even bump into your neighbors, here are some great spots you should definitely check out.
What Makes a Brewery Truly Community-Focused?
Before we dive into the list, let’s quickly talk about what I mean by “community focused.” To me, it’s a brewery that:
- Hosts regular events that bring people together beyond just drinking Supports local causes through fundraisers or special beer releases Offers family-friendly or inclusive spaces—not just a “bar” vibe Engages with the neighborhood in a genuine, ongoing way
These breweries become part of your social calendar without feeling like a forced marketing ploy. They have real stories, real people behind the scenes, and they make you feel like you belong.
Lancaster Brewing Co.: The Granddaddy of Community Spirit in PA
If you’re in the Lancaster area (or willing to make the trip), Lancaster Brewing Company is a classic example of a community pillar. They’ve been around since 1995, which in local craft beer years feels like forever. But what’s really impressive is how they’ve stayed connected to their roots and kept their doors open for everyone.
Community Events That Feel Like a Neighborhood Block Party
Lancaster Brewing Co. regularly hosts events that bring all sorts of folks together. From their annual Oktoberfest celebrations to live music nights that are more about fun than loudness, it’s a place where you can strike up a conversation with a local artist or the chef behind their tasty pub fare.
They also partner with local nonprofits for fundraisers. For example, last year they released a special batch of their Farmhouse Ale with proceeds going to a local community garden project that helps teach kids about sustainable farming. It’s the kind of thing that makes you feel good about where your money is going—and you get a great beer out of it.
Family-Friendly and Inclusive Vibes
One of the standouts at Lancaster Brewing Co. is their welcoming atmosphere. They have a large outdoor beer garden where families can hang out with kids, and they always offer non-alcoholic options like house-made sodas for the designated drivers or non-drinkers. Plus, their staff is known for being genuinely warm and approachable.
Why Lancaster Brewing Co. Feels Like a Third Space
This place isn’t just about the beer; it’s a genuine third space—not home, not work, but a spot where you can relax, meet people, and feel part of something bigger. I’ve been there on a random Tuesday and ended up chatting with the brewer about hop varieties, and on a Saturday afternoon, I’ve seen kids playing cornhole while parents catch up over pints.
Hitchhiker Brewing: The Newcomer with a Big Heart
If you’re closer to Philly or the Lehigh Valley area, Hitchhiker Brewing is a newer brewery that’s quickly making waves as a community hub. They’re all about collaboration and connection—not just brewing great beer but creating a welcoming space for everyone.
Brewery Fundraisers with a Purpose
Hitchhiker has been involved in several local fundraisers that support causes ranging from homelessness to environmental conservation. One of their best-known charity beer releases was the “ Rising Tide IPA,” where a portion of the sales supported a local shelter. I got to chat with the head brewer at the time, and he was genuinely passionate about using their platform to make a difference.
Events That Bring the Community Together
- Trivia Nights: These aren’t your usual noisy bar quizzes. Hitchhiker keeps the vibe friendly and inclusive, making it easy for newcomers to join in. Family Game Days: They set up board games and kid-friendly activities, so it’s not just the grown-ups having all the fun. Local Artist Showcases: Regularly featuring art from nearby creatives, which adds a cool cultural layer to the taproom.
Why Hitchhiker Stands Out
What I appreciate about Hitchhiker is how transparent and open they are about their mission. They’ve built a community around their beer without ever losing sight of the people behind each pint. Plus, they’re big on sustainability and often collaborate with other local businesses, which is a big plus in my book.
Other Noteworthy Community-Focused Breweries in PA
While Lancaster Brewing Co. and Hitchhiker Brewing get a lot of love from me, PA has tons of other breweries that do a great job connecting with their communities. Here are a few you might want to check out:
Victory Brewing Company (Downingtown): Known for hosting charity runs and benefit concerts, plus a solid lineup of community events. Round Guys Brewing (Lancaster): Focuses heavily on charity beer releases and partners with local nonprofits for fundraising. Voodoo Brewing Co. (Reading): Runs monthly “Community Nights” with local food trucks, live music, and kid-friendly activities. Iron Hill Brewery (Multiple locations): Often involved in local charity events and offers a welcoming environment for families and non-drinkers.How to Find Community-Focused Brewery Events Near You
Here are a few tips for discovering these authentic community spots:
- Follow Local Brewery Social Media: They usually post upcoming fundraisers and events first. Check Community Boards: Local libraries, coffee shops, or community centers often have flyers for brewery events. Ask Around: Strike up a conversation at your neighborhood brewery—you’ll be surprised how many insider tips you can get. Join Local Beer Groups: Facebook groups or Meetup.com often organize group visits or share info about charity beer releases.
Why Supporting Community-Focused Breweries Matters
When you choose to spend your time and money at breweries that care about their neighborhoods, you’re doing more than just enjoying a beer. You’re helping keep local culture alive, supporting small business owners who give back, and creating spaces where everyone feels welcome.
Plus, these breweries often have stories that go beyond the beer—stories about people, causes, and passions that make your visit more meaningful. That’s a far cry from the soulless, corporate taprooms with no water glasses (yes, I’m looking at you) or snobby beer spots that act like only certain styles “count.”
Final Thoughts: Grab a Flight and Dive In
My advice when you visit a new brewery? Always start with a flight. It’s a great icebreaker and lets you gauge not only the beer but also the vibe of the place. Take a few pictures of those tap handles (I promise, I’m not the only one who does this), and don’t be shy about chatting with staff or fellow patrons. You’ll find that community-focused breweries are eager to share their story—and often appreciate a curious, friendly face.
So next weekend, skip the usual bar and head to a brewery that’s more than just a place to drink. Support the ones that host brewery fundraisers in PA, participate in charity beer releases, and truly bring people together. Your community is waiting.
Cheers to good beer and great neighbors!