VICTORY BEERS, LATER?

Active outdoor lifestyle meets craft beer lover in the tradition known as: Victory Beer

Going to climb a mountain...pack a good beer! I don’t know how or when it started, or even how many people honor this tradition. But approximately 24,000 tags on Instagram surely make it official these days. The victory beer, as I, along with many friends can confirm, is a tradition with at least let’s say a “cult” following. Does it come from the demographic cross over between outdoor enthusiasts and craft beer lovers? Our way of presenting ourselves the “gold star” for completing a task in the era of adulting? These are just a few theories in this unscientific article for your consideration and enjoyment...hopefully over a cold one.

Have you ever celebrated with a victory beer? What is it exactly? It could really be anything. If you don’t drink or don’t like beer, insert victory treat of choice here, _________. I suggest pizza, ice cream, pie, doughnuts, etc. A victory beer is a reward to celebrate accomplishing…something. Typically, my most common victory beers are enjoyed during or after a long hike, after a special yoga practice (Beer + Yoga), or after a run or some other strenuous form of exercise. Whether you bring it with you in your pack, drink it at home, or head to a local brewery or restaurant to kick back and celebrate, the victory is yours!

Obviously, there are no rules to a fun tradition like this (except #6, most definitely a rule), but I’ll offer some guidelines.

#1. Let it be Local

We’re here to explore, so our choice of victory brew should reflect that, too! Grab some cans or a crowler to go when visiting a local brewery, and dedicate them to that specific occasion. Find the nearest brewery to the park or location your activity will take place and try something new. If you’re short on time, pick some up at a local store or gas station. If you have a local favorite, spread the word to others that may not be familiar. The taste of victory is that much sweeter when you drink local.

#2. Add ONE to Grow On

Sometimes along the trail or at victory point, you’ll strike up a conversation, meet someone interesting, or find someone that could use some trail magic. Bringing an extra can of beer might seem like unnecessary weight, but when you can share in the victory and surprise someone else, it makes the experience even more memorable.

#3. With an Air of Celebration

Create your own ceremonial rules. Go wild. By adding in a toast as you crack open your cans you’ll celebrate your accomplishments and make them memorable. The promise of victory beers could even entice your most couch-loving friend to join in the adventure. Victory awaits!

#4. With a View

Crack open your brew right at the summit or shortly after, or at a brewery or restaurant with outdoor seating and a great view. The places we enjoy our victory beers certainly carry meaning and build memories and traditions. So, make it epic whenever possible.

#5. Responsibly

Don’t forget, you still may have more of the hike, etc. to go. Just because you’re beyond the peak doesn’t mean you’ve won the race. This isn’t a kegger. Remember to hydrate (with water). Enjoying a victory beer gives us a moment to relax, reflect, have a snack and share stories about our experience while we’re still in the moment. If we’re lucky, we might even find some shelter, a short reprieve from the elements.

Many parks have rules about consuming alcohol on site. Please pay attention and obey all laws and signs regarding alcohol possession and consumption. This article is in no way suggesting or condoning the consumption of alcohol in excess or in any area where not permitted.

#6. Keep it Clean

You packed it in, so pack it out. An empty can weighs next to nothing. Leave No Trace principles apply on every adventure. If you need a refresher, you can find more information here. No victories for litter bugs!

Victory beers can be used to celebrate achievements big and small, so call for them as often as you like. Victory beers after? I love this tradition that combines two things I absolutely love - outdoor exploration and local beer. Adventurers love to talk, share stories and trail notes, so slip off your pack, catch your breath, add a warm, dry layer and get comfortable. What better way to commemorate and bond over a shared experience than by raising a pint?

Are victory beers a part of your tradition? If this is a new idea, maybe give it a try this weekend. Share your favorite victory beer story in the comments below, or on social media. Until next time, Live Wildly.

Looking for more adventure? Join me on social media through Instagram and Facebook.