SeaWorld Orlando pours another pint for its 2023 Craft Beer Festival

While many people have caught a wave on the new Pipeline Surf Coaster, some guests might feel a little parched after that thrilling experience. With the return of the 2023 Craft Beer Festival, SeaWorld Orlando guests have a bounty of new and returning beverages to quench their thirst.

Starting on July 28, the 2023 Craft Beer Festival returns to the Orlando theme park. Running through September 4 on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, the special event is included with admission, but guests need to purchase food and beverages separately. Tasting lanyards are available, as well.

In addition to returning favorites, this year’s event will feature some local breweries. City Beautiful favorites like Crooked Can, Motorworks Brewing and Orange Blossom Brewing Co will be offering some of their most popular beers. Options include Orange Blossom Honey Pilsner, Crooked Can Highstepper American IPA, and Motorworks Brewing Pulp Friction Grapefruit IPA.

Although beer is the festival’s focus, the event will feature some new cocktails. Many of the specialty cocktails seem to be inspired by some of the popular rides. From Surfs Up to Fizzy Shine, these flavors seem to capture the hot summer vibe.

Since all those beverages are best paired with food, the SeaWorld Orlando chefs have created a wide variety of small plates. In addition to returning favorites, like banana foster beignets and the walking taco, the new dishes are globally inspired bites. Pork belly with kimchi, Michelada Ceviche, and Churro Cheesecake are some of the new menu items.

The return of the Craft Beer Festival showcases that food and beverage events are a big driver for food travel. While the theme park offers thrilling rides and immersive attractions, it is often the food that flavors the event. Whether it is the one time guest or the annual passholder coming back time and again, food is always part of the experience. It has become imperative for the culinary teams to showcase their creativity.