Celebrate the legacy of brewing in Tumwater

The Tumwater Artesian Brewfest celebrates the legacy of brewing and its importance to Tumwater's history.  

1-8 p.m. | Saturday, August 17, 2024
Tumwater Valley Golf Course

Visit the official event website 

A brief history 

In 1895, a German brewmaster named Leopold Schmidt chose a site at the foot of the Tumwater Falls as the location for his new brewery. It had everything that he needed: access to saltwater shipping, electrical power produced by the falls, and most importantly, artesian springs of pure water that was perfect for brewing beer. In 1906 the Olympia Brewing Company, owned by Leopold Schmidt, constructed what is now called the "Old Brewhouse".  It is six stories tall and constructed of red brick, elegant arches, and a copper roof with Tenino sandstone trim.  

The Old Brewhouse served as the proud centerpiece of the Schmidt family brewing operation until Prohibition. The Old Brewhouse has long been associated with the Olympia Brewery which was the Capital community's largest private employer for a significant part of the past century.  The importance of the structure was recognized in 1978 when the property was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
 
Today, the Old Brewhouse stands as Tumwater’s most important architectural landmark. It is a symbol of the crucial role the Olympia Brewing Company played in the history of our community, and the last reminder of the flourishing riverside industries that once formed the heart of this town. Revitalizing this community asset is a City and community priority. 

Learn more about the Old Brewhouse.

This event is sponsored by the City of Tumwater.

Brewfest Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteer registration is CLOSED for 2024. Check back next year! 

Volunteers are needed to assist with the Brewfest entry gate, cleaning and monitoring activities during the event, and for clean-up afterwards. All volunteers must be 21 years of age by the date of the event.

Brewfest Sponsorship Opportunities

Sponsorship opportunities are available for every budget. If you are interested in sponsoring an aspect of the 2024 Tumwater Artesian Brewfest, please contact Recreation Director, Chuck Denney.

For more information regarding the Brewfest, call Tumwater Parks and Recreation: (360) 754-4160 or email.