Hickory’s got the real deal. This fall, the city’s craft beer scene is serving up flavor, history, and plenty of local pride. From Olde Hickory’s timeless brews to City Walk’s bold, fresh creations, Hickory pours with personality. With Oktoberfest just around the corner, there’s no better time to raise a glass.
Olde Hickory Brewery
Olde Hickory Brewery started in 1994 with a repurposed dairy system and a big dream: to bring craft beer to the North Carolina foothills. Thirty years later, it’s one of the state’s oldest breweries, with award-winning brews served at local favorites like Amos Howards, McGuire’s Pub, Olde Hickory Station, Olde Hickory Tap Room, or available in stores across the region.
Step inside the tasting room, tucked into a restored 1880s downtown landmark, and you’re surrounded by the sights and smells of brewing—barrels, stainless steel tanks, and the rich aroma of fermenting beer. Each beer is made with select grains, hops, and yeast, reflecting the care and passion that have kept Olde Hickory a staple of North Carolina’s beer culture.
Popular brews: Table Rock (American Pale Ale), Piedmont Pilsner (Pale Lager), Hickory Stick Stout, and The Event Horizon (Imperial Stout).
City Walk Brewing & Distilling
City Walk Brewing & Distilling opened in late 2023, bringing a fresh, modern vibe to Hickory’s brewing community. Located right along the City Walk, this family-friendly brewery is perfect for grabbing a pint, enjoying tasty bites, and soaking up the lively atmosphere.
Whether you’re inside the cozy taproom or outside in the spacious biergarten with its bar and stage, there’s always something happening. Sip rotating taps, seltzers, or cocktails while snacking on Mississippi nachos or cheese curds—or order a meal from Cranford Brothers Barbecue next door. Dog-friendly seating, lawn games, and live music make it a spot everyone can enjoy.
Popular brews: Pontoon Party (Carolina Lager), Lakeland (Honeysuckle Wheat), Fanny Pack (Hazy IPA), and Fallen Arches (West Coast IPA)
Bonus: Hidden inside is, No Entry Cocktail Lounge, a speakeasy serving craft cocktails and in-house spirits. Arrive early to secure your spot—this exclusive gem fills up fast!
Oktoberfest
Every October, Downtown Hickory comes alive for Oktoberfest, a beer-sipping, brat-grilling, music-filled celebration honoring the city’s German roots. Founded by German-born Adolphus “Dolph” Shuford, Hickory blends tradition with local flavor. This year, Oktoberfest runs October 10–12 (Fri 5–11 PM, Sat 10 AM–11 PM, Sun Noon–5 PM), bringing locals and visitors together for a weekend of music, food, and seasonal brews.
Olde Hickory Brewery joins the festivities with its Oktoberfest lager, a Märzen-style brew featuring rich caramel notes, a nutty flavor, and a smooth, lightly spicy finish. Grab a stein and toast to fall, German-style, right in the heart of downtown.
City Walk Brewing & Distilling keeps the party going with live music, contests, and Bavarian bites. Catch performances by Rastacoustic (Oct. 10), Dakota Groves Trio (Oct. 11), and Zeb Spencer (Oct. 12), then test your skills in Saturday’s Keg Rolling and Steinholding competitions. Don’t miss a Bavarian Platter piled with pretzels, pierogies, and bratwurst—fuel for the festivities! See the full City Walk Oktoberfest lineup here.
What sets Hickory apart isn’t just the quality of its beer—it’s the way each brewery brings people together. From longtime locals raising a pint downtown to new visitors discovering their first pour, Hickory’s taps flow with stories worth sharing. There’s no better season than fall to experience it all.
