Schlafly Full Moon Festival returns to Maplewood this weekend

Join Schlafly Beer for a festive celebration of autumn at their beloved Full Moon Festival on Saturday, Nov. 2, from 3 to 9 p.m. at Schlafly Bottleworks at 7260 Southwest Ave. in Maplewood. This annual gathering brings friends and families together for an afternoon filled with live music, delicious food and a warm sense of community, all set against the stunning backdrop of vibrant autumn colors. This year’s event, titled Once in a Beaver Moon Spectacular, coincides with the Beaver Full Moon. “It's named after the time of year when beavers begin to prepare for winter by retreating to their lodges,” explained Kara Donsky, general manager of Schlafly Bottleworks. “What better way to say goodbye to autumn than a giant party.”

This free festival will feature Schlafly's top seasonal brews, including favorites like Pumpkin Ale and Hard Cider, along with two exclusive festival releases – Pumpkin Spiced Latte Ale and Vanilla Pumpkin Coffee Stout – available only at the draft tent during the event. Attendees can also anticipate a unique brew created exclusively for the Full Moon Festival. This special beer pairs well with a variety of delicious food options. Highlights include a Pig Platter featuring pulled pork sandwiches, accompanied by a selection of sides, all prepared by Schlafly’s culinary team. The culinary team plans to roast four hogs on-site from Kenrick's Meat & Catering, ensuring a mouthwatering experience for all attendees.

A highlight of the festival is the annual Chili Cook-Off. This year, the competition adds an exciting twist as the staff from each brewpub collaborates to create their own original recipes. “We decided to create a fun, competitive element between our staff by allowing each brewpub to create a chili recipe,” said Donsky. Schlafly Taproom will present Last Tap Brisket Chili, featuring pumpkin and oatmeal stout-braised brisket with fire-roasted tomatoes, best paired with Oatmeal Stout or Pumpkin Ale. Schlafly Bottleworks will serve Pumpkin King Chili, a spicy classic made with beef and beans that pairs well with Coffee Stout. From the team at Schlafly Bankside, guests can enjoy Bankside Smokehouse Chili, which combines a four-pepper blend with smoked prime rib, recommended with Oatmeal Stout or Pale Ale. Finally, Schlafly Highland Square will offer El Loco Chili, a two-bean chili with beef, chorizo and corn that also complements Oatmeal Stout.

Guests can purchase tickets to sample all four chilis and cast their votes for their favorite. The brewpub with the most votes will be crowned the winner. This year, festival-goers will be treated to live music throughout the day, featuring local bands like Hillary Fitz, The Reeling Gilly, Flip Side and Friends and Sean Canan's Voodoo Players. For those with a sweet tooth, the festival will also feature s’mores, available for purchase at the outside food tent, where guests can roast marshmallows over one of the four inviting fire pits.

Schlafly’s Full Moon Festival is a family-friendly event, welcoming attendees of all ages and their furry companions (leashed dogs are permitted). While seating is available via picnic tables and tent seating, guests are encouraged to bring their own camping chairs to settle in comfortably. As a part of its commitment to community engagement, Schlafly encourages guests to utilize public parking options and rideshare services to minimize disruption in the surrounding neighborhood.

Join Schlafly Beer in celebrating a season of good cheer, delicious food and great company at the Full Moon Festival. For more information and to stay updated on event details, visit Schlafly's website or follow them on social media.