The Quad Cities will raise a glass to the region’s thriving craft beer scene during QC Craft Beer Week, returning from Friday, May 23, to May 30.
Timed to coincide with Memorial Day weekend and the start of summer travel season, this week-long celebration showcases local breweries, new collaborations and the continued evolution of the QC Ale Trail.
The festivities kick off on May 23 from 4-7 p.m. at Bent River Brewing Co. in downtown Moline, where a special tapping of the QC Ale Trail Ale will be held. Brewed in partnership with Bent River Brewing Co., this 5% ABV American Wheat Ale is a refreshing, citrus-forward summer beer inspired by Midwest favorites like Bell’s Oberon. Guests who purchase a pint of Ale Trail Ale during QC Craft Beer Week will receive a free commemorative pint glass while supplies last.
“QC Craft Beer Week is a great reminder of the passion and creativity within our regional brewing community,” said Dave Herrell, president and CEO of Visit Quad Cities. “The QC Ale Trail and this week-long celebration continue to build momentum by spotlighting the people and places that make our beer culture so special. We’re proud to raise a glass to that.”
Established in 2019 through a partnership between Visit Quad Cities and regional craft breweries, the QC Ale Trail is an immersive self-guided tour spanning both sides of the Mississippi River that showcases the vibrant craft brewery scene. Participants can check in at participating breweries with a QC Ale Trail mobile pass to receive free prizes from Visit Quad Cities while enjoying local brews and meeting fellow craft beer fans.
ThroughoutQC Craft Beer Week, breweries are encouraged to host special tappings, beer releases, and promotions. Visit Quad Cities also will share giveaways, feature brewery spotlights, and post real-time updates on @VisitQuadCities social media and within the QC Ale Trail Facebook group.
This year’s celebration follows American Craft Beer Week, Iowa Craft Beer Week, and Illinois Craft Beer Week – extending the national and statewide momentum into Memorial Day weekend. The timing allows for continued engagement from locals and visitors while tapping into increased foot traffic and seasonal travel across the region.
