Love of Beer Led Brothers to Open Ohio’s 1st Craft Brewery. Now Their Biggest Event Starts Christmas 2 Months Early (Exclusive)

The festive spirit was in full swing at Great Lakes Brewing Company (GLBC) in Cleveland, where co-founders Pat and Dan Conway launched the holiday season with the much-anticipated First Pour of their famed Christmas Ale on October 15th. Nestled in the Ohio City neighbourhood, this event marks the unofficial beginning of Christmas celebrations for many attendees, despite still being weeks away from Halloween.

Founded in 1988, Great Lakes Brewing Co. holds the title of Ohio’s first craft brewery. Four years after its inception, the brewery unveiled its Christmas Ale, which has since grown to become not only their flagship seasonal offering but also a cherished part of the local culture. The First Pour event has become synonymous with festive camaraderie, enchanting both families and friends who gather to create lasting memories.

The Christmas Ale, launched in 1992 shortly after the brewery’s success with their Dortmunder Gold Lager at the Great American Beer Festival, is a unique spiced ale infused with honey, ginger, and cinnamon. The recipe sets it apart from traditional holiday brews and has contributed to its immense popularity, which continues despite its limited availability of just ten weeks each year.

Data from Nielsen indicates that the Christmas Ale was the leading winter seasonal beer in the Midwest and ranked third nationwide in 2025. In response to demand, GLBC began brewing this festive ale as early as July in 2026, extending its reach beyond Cleveland to 22 states and Washington, D.C.

This year’s First Pour event was a notable gathering, with guests arriving as early as 6 a.m. to secure their spot, even though the doors did not open until 11 a.m. The loyal attendees, many of whom have formed friendships over the years at previous First Pour events, consider it a reunion. As the brewery staff, clad in whimsical reindeer onesies, began serving the eagerly awaited Christmas Ale, a line stretched around the block, with patrons sporting festive outfits, including Santa suits and Christmas-themed attire.

Financial figures reveal that during the event, GLBC staff manage to serve a pint of Christmas Ale approximately every 13 seconds. Marissa DeSantis, the brewery’s brand marketing manager, reflected on the careful planning that goes into making the First Pour an unforgettable experience. The commitment to excellence and community connection is what makes this event truly special.

For the Conway brothers, the First Pour represents more than just sales; it embodies the relationships forged through their brewery and the lasting impact on their patrons. Pat remarked on the significance of seeing customers return to celebrate milestones such as engagements and reunions at the event, contributing to a wonderful tapestry of shared moments over decades.

While the First Pour is a celebration of holiday ale, it is also a tribute to the brewery’s roots in Cleveland’s brewing history. Pat recalled the region’s thriving brewing industry before Prohibition, which sadly saw many establishments shuttered by the mid-1980s. Their mission was to revive Cleveland’s brewing legacy and to ensure it remained a vital part of the city’s identity.

GLBC continues to reinforce its ties with the local community, branding itself as the official beer of the Cleveland Cavaliers. They recently launched a collaboration with Malley’s Chocolates to introduce a limited edition lager inspired by peanut butter chocolate pretzels. Additionally, this year’s First Pour event included a shuttle service to a Cleveland Guardians playoff game, amplifying the festive atmosphere among the attendees.

With the brewery approaching its 40th anniversary, the Conway brothers reflect on the rich history of their establishment. They express excitement about the future while also feeling nostalgic about the journey that has brought them to this point. As they look ahead, they remain committed to celebrating their hometown and the connections created through their beloved Christmas Ale.

The Christmas Ale First Pour has solidified its status as an annual tradition, showcasing not only GLBC’s remarkable brew but also the robust spirit of community that has flourished around it, positioning Great Lakes Brewing Company as a cornerstone of Cleveland culture.