Here we are, week three of social distancing. We’ll be the first to admit we miss friends and co-workers, we miss the patio, we miss seeing everyone’s shining faces in the brewery. Breweries are spaces to gather, to make friends, to form connections. Since gathering together is currently off the table, we’re getting creative on finding ways to still connect with friends and neighbors, even if we can’t physically be together. We’ve come up with a few ideas to maintain some fun (and sanity) over the coming weeks. We hope you give them a try, we find comfort in knowing that people are still gathering virtually when we can’t all be together!

Virtual Happy Hours

You’ve probably had about 1,000 Zoom meetings this week. Now it’s time to use the platform (or Google Hangouts or FaceTime) for something a bit more fun! Set a time to jump online with your friends. You can create a playlist to share so everyone can enjoy the same beats. Perhaps everyone drinks the same beer or cocktail, perhaps you all taste your own beers or see who comes up with the most creative mixed drink. Though traditional brewery games like Jenga or Connect4 may be off the table, check out Jackbox Games for some new games that can be played virtually. Also be sure to check out the Denver Beer Co. Facebook page, we’ll be hosting Happy Hours every Friday at 4 p.m. with our brewers. We’ll do tastings and open the lines for Q&A. We’d love for you to join us, or set one up with your friends!

Socially Distant Block Party

We’ve seen a few of these popup parties in our neighborhoods over the past week. Whichever neighbor has the loudest sound system cranks the music and everyone comes outside to enjoy a few beverages and perhaps a little dance party on their porch or in their front yard. Set up some lawn chairs six feet apart and have a front yard chat. Swap stories about the best new shows on Netflix. New connections are always fun. 

Remote Dinner Party

Pick a day and time, invite your friends or family members to a Zoom meeting and host a virtual dinner party. This idea is super fun as it encourages you to get creative with your cooking, especially if you add a little friendly competition for who can create the best looking meal. (You can ship the winner a 6-pack from DBC, we’ll deliver it to their door!) Then prop up the laptop on your table and pour the wine (and beer) and let the conversation flow. 

Virtual Movie Night

Can’t go to the movies with friends? No problem. Check out Netflix Party, a Google Chrome extension that allows you to stream movies or shows with friends and has a live chat feature so you can chat about the plot. Pop some popcorn, grab a craft beer, settle in with some friends for a good show.

We can’t wait for the day when we gather again on our sunny patio and get to cheers one another in person! Until that day comes, we wish you well, Denver. We hope you find fun ways to connect with your friends and loved ones. We will be with you in spirit!