Across the nation’s media landscape, food & drink writers seem eager to declare the death of craft beer. Some of those bylines actually make a good argument.
As Tampa Bay Business Journal reported yesterday, a dozen local breweries have closed over the last year, with just five (including the extremely popular Late Start Brewing) opening in the same time frame.
“However, the area is still home to just over 100 breweries,” TBBJ added, “which sold a combined 29,000 barrels, or 900,000 gallons, in retail sales last year.”
And while nearly everyone is drinking less these days, Tampa Bay Beer Week is taking a beat to toast to the good stuff at this halfway-to-beer-week fundraiser where dozens of those local brewers come together to pour a few out and take a deep breath together.
“Every ticket purchased helps support TBBW and our mission to celebrate, promote, and strengthen the local craft beer community. Your participation directly helps us make TBBW bigger and better each year,” organizers wrote. “Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or simply looking for a fun afternoon with friends, this is the perfect opportunity to discover new favorites while supporting a great cause.”
This article appears in Aug. 27 – Sept. 02, 2026.