Craft beer festivals are tapping into something big. Sports bars that once relied solely on game day crowds are discovering new energy by embracing the craft beer movement, and it’s working. These events bring in fresh faces, boost sales, and build community buzz. But behind the scenes, hosting a successful beer fest takes more than great hops and good vibes. It takes preparation, strategy, and the right sports bar insurance. RMS Hospitality Group helps agents ensure their sports bar clients are fully covered when the kegs roll in and the crowds roll up.
Craft beer’s boom is no passing trend. According to IBISWorld, the U.S. craft beer industry is expected to reach $7.5 billion by 2029. With this explosion in variety and quality, festivals have naturally followed, bringing together brewers, bars, and beer lovers for multi-tap celebrations that do more than sell drinks; they shape culture.
As Fluid and Fire notes, these events are no longer niche. Beer festivals are local institutions, drawing wide audiences, boosting tourism, and even revitalizing neighborhoods. For sports bars, that means big opportunity — but also big responsibility.
Transforming a sports bar into a temporary beer fest venue invites a shift in liability. Crowds swell beyond the usual, alcohol flows freely, and temporary structures — tents, outdoor taps, rented stages — bring a fresh layer of risk.
Potential concerns include:
Overconsumption and intoxicated patrons
Injuries from slip-and-fall incidents
Property damage or vandalism
Equipment failures or structural issues
Security incidents or fights
In these moments, having proper insurance is essential for protecting against losses.
Agents play a critical role in ensuring their clients are prepared. Here's what coverages should be on the menu:
General liability insurance: Covers injuries or property damage occurring during the event
Liquor liability insurance: Protects against incidents related to alcohol, such as serving a minor or a patron who later causes harm
Assault and battery coverage: Vital for crowd-heavy events where tempers may flare
Excess liability insurance: Adds an extra cushion of protection above policy limits, which is important when risk is heightened
Visit RMS Hospitality Group’s dedicated page to learn more about coverage types specific to hospitality venues like bars and taverns.
Insurance is one piece of the puzzle. Proactive risk management makes a strong policy even stronger.
Enforce ID checks and train staff in responsible serving practices.
Hire professional security to maintain order.
Inspect all temporary structures for safety and compliance.
Create a clear emergency response plan, and train staff on protocols.
Together, these measures help prevent incidents and protect the bar’s brand and bottom line.
Sports bar owners may see the marketing potential of craft beer festivals, but they need a trusted advisor to see the risk. Insurance agents are in a powerful position to help clients anticipate issues before they bubble over. By evaluating venue layouts, reviewing vendor contracts, and ensuring correct policy limits, agents provide peace of mind that’s worth more than any ticket price.
Craft beer festivals bring excitement and energy to sports bars along with unique challenges. With the right planning and insurance in place, they can be profitable, safe, and memorable experiences. For insurance agents, this is an opportunity to guide clients into a more protected and prosperous future. Contact us to help your clients raise a glass with confidence.
At RMS Hospitality Group, our expertly crafted policies are written specifically for the hospitality industry. We offer custom-tailored solutions to meet any venue’s specific needs. For more information, contact our knowledgeable experts today at (888) 359-8390.
At RMS and associated firms, business continues as usual. Our staff is remote-capable and available to handle all partners, brokers, and insureds at the present time.
