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The largest craft brew industry conference is back in Nashville

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Posted at 4:59 AM, May 07, 2023
and last updated 2023-05-08 18:19:37-04

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The largest conference for craft brewers starts Sunday and lasts over the next three days. This is the second time the Craft Brewers Conference and BrewExpo America has come to Nashville. The first was back in 2018.

"Craft beer is a $26.8 billion industry in the U.S. with Tennessee being home to more than 140 breweries, representing $1.3 billion in economic impact for the state. With more than 11,000 anticipated attendees, CBC 2023 is expected to generate substantial economic impact for the city via hotel stays, patronage at restaurants, bars, and tourist sites, and sales tax, to name a few," the conference website said.

For three days, speakers and seminars at the Music City Center. will dive deep into topics like beer styles, sustainability, innovation, and anything you can think of regarding the brewing business.

"We cover everything from grain to glass, so from the brewing equipment you see behind me, to the supplies you need to make the beer, to the glasses and other things you need to serve the beer," Vice President of Marketing & Communications for the Brewers Association, Ann Obenchain, said.

BrewExpo America will have hundreds of exhibitors sharing different products and services.

And while the event is closed to the public, beer lovers can enjoy some specials around town this week.

"During this week, there are hundreds of events, all through Nashville where they are collaborating with other breweries and restaurants so it's a great time if you're a beer lover to go out and explore and take advantage of some special tappings and opportunities in the city," Obenchain, said.

It all ends on May 10 with the World Beer Cup Awards, where there are more than 10,000 entries. It is called the "Olympics of beer".

"The now-annual global competition celebrates the science and art of brewing and brings new ingredients and techniques to the largest stage of international brewing excellence," the website said.

Nashville is also expected to reap big economic benefits, as thousands of attendees shop around town and book up hotels in the area.