DC Beer Week kicks off this weekend

WASHINGTON - Craft brewing has become a $22 billion industry. In the District, a local consortium of local brewmasters is doing their part to grab a piece of that ever-growing pie.

As part of DC Beer Week, breweries are planning special events aimed at showing beer enthusiasts what they have to offer.

The DC Brewers' Guild took over planning for DC Beer Week this year. Ten local breweries are members of the group - founded in 2013 - though many others are taking part in events planned over the next week.

But Guild Executive Director Kathy Rizzo said the role of local breweries transcends just beverages.

"D.C. in particular hasn't had a manufacturing industry in decades," Rizzo said. "The brewing manufacturing industry has come along to give people jobs that don't require a lot of training and supports a local vibe."

One of the founding members, 3 Stars Brewing Company, was responsible for crafting a special brew just for Beer Week, tapped on Tuesday night at a kickoff party in Dupont Circle.

"It's gotten bigger and it's growing all the time," said 3 Stars Brewing Company founder Mike McGarvey describing the local industry. "People are appreciating new styles, trying things they haven't before so we're seeing a lot of growth in craft beer right now."

More about DC Beer Week 2016: dcbeerweek.net