In 1765, Josiah Chowning opened a tavern in Williamsburg to appeal to the “ordinary sort.” A place for everyday patriots to meet, share ideas, and—of course—drink beer.
Today this unique 18th-century tradition lives on in the newly reopened Chowning’s alehouse. During the week you can stop in for a casual lunch or dinner, and on the weekends gather in the arbor behind the tavern for a brand new beer-tasting experience in a festival atmosphere during Beers in the ‘Burg. This past weekend we were lucky enough to attend the first-ever event (perks of the job!) and could not have asked for a better afternoon. The beer was plentiful, the people were friendly, and the Marquis de Lafayette even rode by on horseback. Just how you pictured the 18th century, right?
THE ALE
Let’s begin with the star of the show—the ale. As soon as we stepped through the tavern gate, we were given a small Chowning’s beer glass (ours to keep) and wristband with eleven “X”s on it. This meant we had the opportunity to taste ten unique brews—with one bonus! Or, if you’re anything like me, this also meant you could pick a few favorites and keep going back for those. (Chesapeake Pale Ale, I’m looking at you.)
Our featured brewery was local favorite AleWerks Brewing Company, and the selections included three exclusive Colonial Williamsburg recipes: Old Stitch, Dear Old Mum, and the brand new Wetherburn’s Tavern Bristol. Future offerings will vary by date—so come to one event, or come to them all! There were two beer stations set up, one at the bar and one beyond the arbor, and so despite a great turnout (about 200 people!) we never felt crowded or had to wait in line very long. I’ve only been to a few beer festivals, but in my experience these things matter.
THE ATMOSPHERE
Next up, the atmosphere. As I already alluded to, it was full-on-magical 18th century. Where else can you sit on a picnic bench behind a restored 18th-century tavern, beneath swooping branches, to the sounds of cannon fire, fifes, and drums? As I sipped my Chesapeake Pale Ale, I noticed the Marquis de Lafayette on horseback circling in a nearby field. Although I’ve lived and worked here for almost four years now, I still experience the rare moment when it all feels surreal and new again. This was one of those times. The evening was only enhanced by the lilt of traditional, unplugged Irish music played by the enormously talented members of Poisoned Dwarf.
THE EATS
For those who worked up an appetite from all that tasting and talking, there were several food stations set up as well. Items like Old Stitch Beer-soaked Bratwurst and Pulled Pork BBQ Sandwiches (with beer-infused condiments) received rave reviews from tasters. I can only attest to the House Fried Potato chips—but wow—delicious. These items were available for individual purchase, and not included in our $25 tasting tickets, conveniently allowing us to graze as we went. Although I can only hope the weather will be as gorgeous for all future Beers in the ‘Burg events, I do know you can count on a fantastic event regardless.
Are you a beer festival fan? Will you join us next time with Devil’s Backbone? Tickets are $25 and include eleven tastings with the opportunity to purchase food a la carte.
Coming to town soon and staying across the street from chowings, and we are planning on trying all the new brews, and enjoying the redone tavern. thanks for the great insight to CW
That’s great, David! Thanks for reading and let us know how it goes.
My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed everything about Beers In the ‘Burg. I only wished we lived closer to be able to go again. The ales were all terrific (especially loved the Poisoned Dwarf Dry Irish Stout and the new Bristol along with Old Stitch). The food was delicious and the music was perfect! To the person above complaining about it, were you there? The music wasn’t amplified so it was not loud and the tunes were traditional Irish (and I’m sure many were as old as 18th century tunes). Wonderful event. Wonderful turnout. Great job!!!
I’m sorry, but to me it appears they are willing to significantly compromise authenticity in order to generate revenue. I understand the need to adequately fund the Foundation’s operations but I’d rather see them adopt more modest plans for expanding their operations than risk losing sight of what the essence of what CW is supposed to be all about; “That the future may learn from the past.” Why subject paint flecks to microscopic examination so as to perfectly reproduce it if you’re going to use it as a backdrop for musicians dressed in 19th and 20th century clothing?
Thanks, Betsy! So glad you enjoyed the event-we certainly had a lot of fun too. Could not have hand-picked a more gorgeous day to have it, either.
Old Stitch is an impressive enough ale that I’d like to try others brewed by Alewerks. Thanks for the review, Jessica, I’ll have to put this in my schedule the next time we’re in town!
Thanks, Kurt! We hope you do.
Sorry, but the musicians look totally out of place for the 18th century. Perhaps some of the minstrels from evening Gambols would be a lot more appropriate.
That’s a great suggestion! Thanks, Karen.
“Just how you pictured the 18th century, right?” “As I already alluded to, it was full-on-magical 18th century.”
Not even remotely.
CW is selling out. What’s next? Roller coasters? Do you expect me to be immersed in 18th Century Williamsburg while listening to Irish pub music?
CW has multiple hotel properties outside the Restored Area. Use them.
Hi James, Thanks for reading! We certainly do not expect you to do so, but appreciate the feedback. We offer experiences like Beers in the ‘Burg for those who are interested, but it is certainly not meant to be an experience for all.
If I’m within earshot, I don’t have much of an option, do I?