The OG CTBeer.com™ Announces Inaugural Beer It Forward Day™: A Statewide Celebration of Community, Connections, and Cold Ones

By Megan Yardis

5/6/2026

The OG CTBeer.com is proud to announce the launch of Beer It Forward Day™ on Saturday, May 16, 2026. Falling in the heart of American Craft Beer Week (May 11-17) this statewide event transforms the week’s festivities into a mission of community connection—inviting fans to put some miles on their Passports and 'Beer It Forward'.

The Concept: The 2-for-1 for 2

Historically, a bartender buying a round was the ultimate gesture of welcome and an invitation to pull up a stool and stay a while. The Connecticut Field Trip Passport was built for this kind of exploration, giving holders exclusive access to 2-for-1 beer deals across the state. This event encourages passport holders to do what they already do best: use their brewery-paid-for round to Beer It Forward to a friend, a family member, or even a stranger. By turning the "deal" into a "gesture," Beer It Forward Day highlights the generosity and camaraderie that defines the Connecticut craft beer scene.

"This day is all about cranking up the volume on the local energy that makes the CT beer community awesome," says Kevin Mardorf, founder of CTBeer.com. "One beer turns into two, and suddenly we’re coming together with the local small businesses that make this community go."

Economic Impact: Butts in Barstools

Since its launch, the Connecticut Field Trip Passport has proven to be a powerful economic engine for the state's craft beer industry. Participating breweries report that the program is consistently bringing in new faces and putting butts in barstools. By driving foot traffic and incentivizing “taproom tourism,” the Passport creates a direct financial lift for local small businesses.

A Statewide Open House

On May 16, the 50+ participating Passport partners will act as host locations for a day of connection. Join the movement by grabbing one of the remaining limited-edition Passports at CTBeer.com or an official retail location. Passport holders are invited to choose one destination from their book, get their stamp, and share that second pour. A complete list of official Passport stops and participating locations can be found at https://ctbeer.com/venues.

Digital Community and Storytelling

To capture the energy of the day, participants are encouraged to share their experiences in the Connecticut Beer Trail Adventures Facebook group. This dedicated community space will serve as the hub for “Stamp Stories,” highlighting the new connections and local discoveries made throughout the day.

About the OG CTBeer.com™

CTBeer.com is an independent marketing company and the leading brand ambassador for Connecticut's craft beer industry and taproom tourism. Through the Connecticut Field Trip Passport and its suite of digital platforms, CTBeer.com connects thousands of fans with local breweries to foster a thriving, community-focused culture. By prioritizing human connection, CTBeer.com remains the definitive voice for the state's beer trail adventures.