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Nov 30
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Sip and Shop

Shop Small all Holiday Season

By cwa-blog

Shop Small this Season

Keep OB Weird: Why Small Businesses Make Ocean Beach Special

Ocean Beach isn’t just a beach town—it’s a vibe. It’s a community fueled by the “little guys”: mom-and-pop shops, hand-run businesses, and scrappy entrepreneurs who pour their hearts (and probably way too much caffeine) into making this place what it is.

Today, we celebrate Small Business Saturday, but let’s be honest—every day should be Small Business Day. Without these local gems, Ocean Beach would just be… beach. Don’t get us wrong, the waves are cool, but would OB really be OB without the quirky shops, cozy cafes, and places that somehow make flip-flops acceptable in December? (Spoiler alert: No, it would not.)

Why Shopping Small Matters

When you shop at a small business in Ocean Beach, you’re not just buying a product or service—you’re investing in the community. Every dollar you spend goes directly to the amazing people who live and work here, from the bartender who knows your IPA preferences better than your friends do, to the barista who can predict your mood by your coffee order.

Unlike big corporations, small businesses in OB give back in real ways. They’re the ones sponsoring your kid’s soccer team, hosting local art shows, and throwing epic block parties that make your Instagram followers jealous.

The OB Difference

Small businesses don’t just keep Ocean Beach running—they give it character. Where else can you find:

  • A shop owner who will barter with you over a vintage surfboard while swapping stories about the ’80s?
  • A local brewery that brews beers as funky and vibrant as the community it serves?
  • A boutique that somehow always has the perfect t-shirt for both your weird uncle and your trendy cousin?

These places are more than businesses; they’re gathering spots, conversation starters, and the heartbeat of our quirky little town.

Keep it Local

How You Can Help

Whether you stop by California Wild Ales for a pint, grab breakfast from your favorite corner café, or pick up a gift from a local artisan, you’re making a difference. Your money doesn’t vanish into some corporate black hole—it stays right here, supporting the people who make OB the lively, unique, and slightly weird place we all love.

And hey, if you’re reading this in flip-flops and a hoodie, you’re already living the OB lifestyle. High five.

Shop Small, Stay Local, Keep OB Weird

Small businesses are the soul of Ocean Beach, and we need them as much as they need us. So, let’s celebrate them not just today, but every day. Support local, spread the love, and keep this town the vibrant, welcoming, slightly offbeat paradise it’s always been.

Now, go out there and shop small! And maybe grab a Michelada while you’re at it. We hear California Wild Ales has a killer one—spicy mix optional, charcuterie skewer highly recommended. Cheers!

Sip and Shop

Join us and let’s get funky in OB!

Nov 26
Love4
OB WIld West Coast IPA - California Wild Ales & OB Brewery

Introducing OB Wild – Collaboration Brew

By cwa-blog, event

OB Wild Collab Brew

Friends, Neighbors, & Beer

Ocean Beach isn’t just a neighborhood; it’s a way of life. From its eclectic shops and stunning sunsets to its thriving craft beer scene, OB is a community like no other. At the heart of this vibrant culture are two beloved breweries, California Wild Ales and OB Brewery, who have teamed up once again to create something truly special: OB Wild IPA.

This collaboration brings together the talent and creativity of Jim Milea, Head Brewer at OB Brewery, and Zack Brager, Head Brewer at California Wild Ales. Both brewers share a passion for pushing boundaries and delivering exceptional beer experiences. OB Wild IPA, brewed at OB Brewery, is a testament to their shared vision and the unique magic that happens when two local hotspots join forces.

The Brew: OB Wild IPA

OB Wild IPA is a Double Dry-Hopped West Coast IPA that perfectly captures the essence of Ocean Beach. It’s bold, refreshing, and packed with flavor, featuring a hop blend of El Dorado, Centennial, Huell Melon, and Columbus. This combination results in a vibrant profile of citrus, pine, and fruity notes that will tantalize your taste buds with every sip. At 7.2% ABV and 60 IBU, it strikes a perfect balance of strength and bitterness, making it as approachable as it is exciting.

Jim Milea describes brewing OB Wild IPA as “a true meeting of minds.” He notes how Zack’s expertise in experimenting with flavors and techniques from California Wild Ales brought an added layer of complexity to the beer. Meanwhile, Zack praises Jim’s attention to detail and mastery of the classic West Coast IPA style, saying, “This beer is everything we hoped it would be—a reflection of the friendship and creativity we share.”

Neighborhood Cheers

A Community United

OB Wild IPA isn’t just a beer; it’s a symbol of the Ocean Beach spirit. Collaborations like this one highlight the strong bonds within this tight-knit community. Jim and Zack, who have worked together on numerous projects before, see these partnerships as a way to not only elevate their craft but also celebrate the people and places that make OB so unique.

“This is just the beginning,” says Zack. “We’ve got so many exciting ideas for future collaborations, from barrel-aged sours to hop-forward experimental brews. The Ocean Beach community inspires us every day, and we can’t wait to share more with everyone.”

More to Come

OB Wild IPA is the latest in a growing series of collaborations between California Wild Ales and OB Brewery, and it’s clear there’s much more on the horizon. Both breweries are committed to supporting each other, growing the local beer scene, and creating exceptional beers that bring people together.

Next time you’re strolling through OB, stop by OB Brewery or California Wild Ales to grab a pint of OB Wild IPA. Raise your glass to Jim, Zack, and the incredible Ocean Beach community that makes collaborations like this possible. Cheers to the beers—and the friends—that bring us together! 🌊🍻

Stay tuned for updates on future releases from these two innovative breweries. Follow California Wild Ales and OB Brewery on social media to get the latest news and event updates.

Oct 18
Love4
San Diego Gulls | California Wild Ales

San Diego Gulls – Pregame All Season at Wild Ales

By cwa-blog, event

Pregame at Wild Ales all Season

Pre-Game at California Wild Ales Before the San Diego Gulls Home Opener!

Hockey is back, San Diego! 🏒 As the San Diego Gulls prepare to hit the ice for their home opener, the excitement is building—and there’s no better place to start your game night than at California Wild Ales! Located just a slap shot away from Pechanga Arena, our tasting room is the ideal spot to pre-game before the action begins.

At California Wild Ales, we’ve got the perfect setup to fuel your game-day hype. With 20 beers on tap, including everything from refreshing hard seltzers to bold IPAs and our signature sour ales, there’s something for every fan. Plus, we’ll be offering drink specials throughout the night, making it easy to grab a great beer before you head over to cheer on the Gulls.

Why Pre-Game at California Wild Ales?

  • Proximity: We’re practically neighbors with Pechanga Arena, making it a quick and convenient stop before you hit your seats.
  • Atmosphere: Enjoy the company of fellow Gulls fans, all hyped up for the game!
  • Variety: With a diverse tap list and exclusive drink specials, there’s always something new to try.

20 Beers on Tap

And here’s the best part: you can pre-game with us before every Gulls home game! Whether it’s opening night or a mid-season matchup, we’ll be here pouring the beers and getting you game-ready. Come by early, enjoy a laid-back vibe, and sip on some of the best craft beer San Diego has to offer before cheering on the Gulls.

Doors open early for all home games, so round up your crew, grab a pint, and get in on the pre-game fun. Whether you’re heading into the arena or sticking around for the game-day atmosphere, California Wild Ales is the ultimate spot to start your hockey night.

Let’s make this season unforgettable—come pre-game with us and let’s cheer on the Gulls all season long! 🕊️🍻

San Diego Gulls | California Wild Ales
Oct 10
Love4
Ocean Beach Oktoberfest-2022 - California Wild Ales

OB Oktoberfest 2024 w/ Special Beer Release

By cwa-blog, event

22nd Annual OB Oktoberfest

Ocean Beach Oktoberfest is back, and this year OB is taking it to a whole new level! Get ready for the most exciting festival of the season, happening Friday and Saturday—with more space, more beer, and more fun than ever before. We’ve doubled the festival grounds for twice the excitement, so come prepared for the ultimate beachfront bash!

🎶 Non-Stop Music and Festival Vibes

This year, there are two stages to keep the party going all weekend long. Whether you’re into live bands or electronic beats, the festival has all your music cravings covered. It’s a full-on Oktoberfest celebration by the sea, with something for everyone!

🍻 California Wild Ales: Your Oktoberfest Oasis

When you’re ready to kick back and relax, make sure to stop by California Wild Ales—the must-visit spot at this year’s Oktoberfest. With 16 taps of some of the best craft beer and hard seltzers around, we’re here to keep your energy up and your spirits high.

Feeling festive? You’ve got to try our special brews made just for Oktoberfest:

  • Oktoberfest Lager – A classic, smooth, and malty lager perfect for the season.
  • Sauerkraut Sour Ale – A tangy twist for the adventurous beer lover looking for something new!

Special Beer Release for Event

  • And if you’re in the mood for something cold and refreshing, we’ve got adult slushies ready to cool you off while keeping the good vibes going. Whether you’re taking a break from the dance floor or just looking for a chill spot to hang with friends, California Wild Ales is the place to be!

    🌊 Beachfront Fun + Fall Vibes

    With its prime location right on the beach, Ocean Beach Oktoberfest is the perfect way to soak up some sun while enjoying all the fall fun. From stein-holding contests to bratwurst and pretzels, you won’t want to miss a second of the action!

    So, round up your crew, throw on your lederhosen, and come celebrate Oktoberfest like never before. And don’t forget—when you need a break, head down to California Wild Ales for the best brews and chill vibes all weekend long.

    Dates:

    Friday & Saturday
    Location: Ocean Beach, San Diego
    See you at California Wild Ales for craft beers, hard seltzers, and more Oktoberfest goodness!

    Cheers, OB! Prost! 🍻

Oct 03
Love4
Paint & Pint Night | California Wild Ales

Paint & Pint Night

By cwa-blog, event

Paint & Pint Night at California Wild Ales OB! 🎨🍺

Looking for a fun way to unleash your inner artist while sipping on a cold pint of craft beer? Join us at California Wild Ales in Ocean Beach for Paint & Pint Night! We’ve teamed up with local art experts The Artist Outpost to bring you an evening filled with creativity, good vibes, and even better brews.

Event Details:

📅 Date: Saturday, October 19
⏰ Time: 6:00-8:00 PM
📍 Location: 4896 Newport Ave, Ocean Beach
🎟 Tickets: $39 per person
🎨 Special Offer: Book 2 people for just $69 with code cwa

What to Expect:

This isn’t your typical Paint Night! Inspired by the bold and vibrant works of Roy Lichtenstein, we’ll be guiding you in painting a sunset masterpiece using his signature comic book-inspired techniques. From bright colors to playful ben-day dots, you’ll get to experiment with iconic elements of pop art while enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of one of OB’s favorite spots.

Plus, every ticket comes with a pint of your choice, so you can sip on some of our house-brewed beers—whether it’s our refreshing Hard Seltzer, a classic IPA, or a bold Golden Sour. No art experience is necessary, and all materials will be provided.

This event is the perfect excuse to grab your friends, take a break from the beach, and enjoy a memorable night of painting and pints. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking for something fun to do, Paint & Pint Night is the perfect way to spend your Saturday evening.

Wild Ales & The Artist Outpost

How to Book:

Tickets are $39 per person, but don’t miss out on our special offer! Book two people for $69 using the promo code cwa at checkout. Spaces are limited, so make sure to grab your tickets soon!

🎨 Get your creative juices flowing with a pint in hand! We can’t wait to see you at California Wild Ales on October 19!

Paint & Pint | California Wild Ales
Reserve your Spot
Sep 24
Love4
Ocean Beach - Taste of Ocean Beach - California Wild Ales

Taste of Ocean Beach 2024

By cwa-blog, event

A Taste of Ocean Beach

🎉 A Taste of Ocean Beach is Back! 🎉

Get ready, because California Wild Ales is gearing up for this year’s Taste of OB on October 22nd, 2024, from 5 PM to 9 PM! 🌊🍻 It’s the ultimate foodie fest, and we’re bringing the party with a special treat just for you—our Peach Lemonade Adult Hard Slushy! 🍑🍋 And guess what? We’re serving it up for just $1 a taste!

Hosted by the Ocean Beach Community Foundation and the OB MainStreet Association, this event is a must-attend for anyone who loves good food, great drinks, and the best of OB’s local flavor. With more than 40 restaurants, breweries, and wine bars offering up their best bites and beverages, this is your chance to sample it all.

Our Peach Lemonade Adult Hard Slushy is the perfect refreshing treat to sip on while you soak in the beach vibes. If you’ve been looking for a reason to visit us at Wild Ales, this is it! Pop by our spot, say hi, and enjoy our delicious, fruity, and fun slushy—it’s sure to be a highlight of your Taste of OB experience!

Enjoy 40+ Restaurants and Breweries

🎟️ Your $45 ticket gets you access to tasting portions from every participating location. That means over 40 spots where you can explore Ocean Beach’s diverse and vibrant culinary scene.

To purchase your ticket, visit Eventbrite and lock in your spot for this can’t-miss event!

So, mark your calendars for October 22nd, and don’t miss out on this epic day! If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to visit California Wild Ales, this is it. Let’s make this Taste of OB one for the books! 🍻🌴

See you there, OB fam! 🌊

Ocean Beach - Taste of Ocean Beach - California Wild Ales
Jul 25
Love5
Celebration of Life for David Hendon | California Wild Ales

Ocean Beach Clean Up / Celebration of Life

By cwa-blog, event

A Celebration of Life

Join Us in Keeping Ocean Beach Clean and Celebrating David Hendon

Trashy beaches don’t necessarily come to mind while you’re thinking about the fine weather in the forecast for the first weekend of summer, but the trash is there!

We’re doing our part to combat the problem.

At beaches all around Ocean Beach, the big picture is scenic — breathtaking really. But upon close inspection, trash, beer cans, and plastics are found.

That’s why we’re rolling out an incentivized plan to help get the community and tourists involved in actively helping to keep the beach clean. We’ll be supplying customers with beach buckets to take with them on their next outing. When the bucket is filled up and returned, you get a beer for a penny (because we can’t legally give away free beer)!

Celebrate the Life of David Hendon

Please join us in celebrating the life of David Hendon. David, a beloved member of the Ocean Beach community known for his generosity, who tragically lost his life in a car accident over Memorial Day weekend. His roommate and friend, Marc Gervais, was also seriously injured and suffered a heart attack during the incident.

Helo Clean Up our Beach

We have partnered with Submerge Church and Love Thy Neighborhood to ensure this initiative has a positive impact. We invite you to come together to honor David’s memory and raise funds for Marc’s recovery. The celebration will be held this Saturday, July 27th, at 12 PM at Wild Ales.

Event Details

  • Beach Cleanup: 12 PM (noon)
  • Complimentary Toast: 2 PM at the Wild Ales tasting room

Let’s keep our beaches beautiful and come together as a community to support each other in times of need.

Learn More
Jul 23
Love5
GrainBakers | California Wild Ales | Breadmaking Class

Bread Making Class

By cwa-blog, event

Craft and Sip

Time & Location

Date: August 14, 2024
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Venue: California Wild Ales, 3826 Sherman St, San Diego, CA 92110, USA

About This Grainbakers Class

Dive into the world of artisan bread-making with our unique Grainbakers Class, where you’ll transform fresh, spent grain from a brewer’s day into exquisite bread. This hands-on class not only teaches you the art of baking but also lets you create and take home a piece of your culinary craftsmanship.

Choose Your Bread Recipe

Each participant will have the opportunity to choose and create one of the following artisan bread recipes:

  • Rosemary and Sea Salt Artisan Bread
  • Dark Chocolate & Cherry Artisan Bread
  • Italian Tomato & Herb Artisan Bread

Class Includes

  • Bread-and-Butter Sampling: Enjoy a delicious tasting session to kick off the evening.
  • Lecture and Hands-On Instruction: Learn the secrets of crafting spent grain baked goods from our expert instructors.
  • Recipe and Instruction Guide: Take home detailed recipes and guidelines to recreate your bread.
  • Oven-Ready Bread: Prepare one finished item, ready to bake at home.
  • Extra Spent Grain: Receive additional spent grain and recipes to continue your bread-making journey.

VIP / FAQ

  • Class Duration: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM (approximately)
  • Bake at Home: You will finish baking your bread in your own oven.

Let’s Make Bread Together

Itinerary

  • 5:45 PM: Check-in, sign up for timeslots, and enjoy a bread-and-butter sampling.
  • 6:00 – 6:40 PM: All students participate in the main class.
  • 6:45 – 7:15 PM: Mixing Group One
  • 7:20 – 7:50 PM: Mixing Group Two

Feel free to invite a friend to wait for you while you’re in class. Enjoy dinner together before the class, and they can relax with a pint while you bake.

Important Information

  • Comfort: Some portions of the class will require standing. Please wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes. Non-slip footwear is mandatory in the brewery. Sandals and flip-flops are not permitted.

Why This Class is Perfect for You

  • Groups: Enjoy a fun activity with friends.
  • Solo Outing: Perfect for a creative and fulfilling solo adventure.
  • Couples: Great for a date night with a twist.
  • First Date: Impress with a unique and interactive experience.
  • Girls’ Night Out: Ideal for a fun evening with the ladies.
  • Birthday Activity: Make your birthday celebration special with a hands-on baking class.

Join us for an evening of culinary creativity and bring home a delicious artisan bread that you crafted with your own hands. Sign up today and become part of the Grainbakers community!

Reserve Your Spot
Jul 22
Love4
phish-fall-tour

Phish Summer Tour @ Wild Ales

By cwa-blog, event

Phish Summer Tour at Wild Ales OB

Join us at our Ocean Beach tasting room for the exhilarating 2024 Phish Summer Couch Tour! Experience the excitement as we live stream every show, promising nights filled with funky vibes and groovy melodies. Get ready for an unforgettable time as we dim the lights and crank up the volume to an electrifying 11, immersing ourselves in the sensational tunes of our beloved Vermont band.

Quench your thirst with our wide array of beverage options. On tap, we proudly offer 8 8 Sour Beers, complemented by a diverse selection of other beers and fermented drinks. If sour beers aren’t your style, we have a range of alternatives to cater to all palates. Choose from a refreshing West Coast IPA, a couplepf Hazy IPAs, a few crisp Lagers, a Hard Seltzer, or an invigorating Hard Yerba Maté. We have something to satisfy every taste preference.

Our cozy tasting room provides the perfect atmosphere for enjoying the show with fellow phans. Grab a seat and settle in as we transport you to the heart of the concert, with high-definition screens and top-notch sound systems bringing every note to life. Whether you’re Phish 1.0 or new to the scene, you’ll feel right at home among kindred spirits.

Our knowledgeable staff will be on hand to guide you through our drink selections, ensuring you find the perfect beverage to enhance your concert experience.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to celebrate the 2024 Phish Summer Tour with us.  Mark your calendars, invite your friends, and prepare for an epic night of music, drinks, and camaraderie. See you at the Ocean Beach tasting room.

Phish Summer Tour | California Wild Ales

  • TOUR DATES
  • July 19, 20, 21 – Xfinity Center, Mansfield, MA
  • July 23, 24 – Mohegan Sun Arena, Uncasville, CT
  • July 26, 27, 28 – Alpine Valley Music Theatre, East Troy, WI
  • July 30, 31 – Chaifetz Arena, St. Louis, MO
  • August 2, 3, 4 – Ruoff Music Center, Noblesville, IN
  • August 6, 7 – Van Andel Arena, Grand Rapids, MI
  • August 9, 10, 11 – Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, Bethel, NY
  • August 15, 16, 17, 18 – Mondegreen, The Woodlands, Dover, DE
  • August 29, 30, 31, Sept 1 – Dick’s, Commerce City, CO

Jun 12
Love5
California Wild Ales | 44th Annual Street Fair & Chili Cook-Off

Returning Chili Cookoff Champs

By cwa-blog, event

Returning Chili Champs!

Summer in California is synonymous with sunshine, beaches, and, of course, chili cookoffs. And this year, the excitement is palpable as we gear up to defend our title at the 44th Annual Ocean Beach Street Fair and Chili Cookoff on Sunday, June 22nd.

Last year, our team at California Wild Ales stole the show with our exceptional chili, crafted by none other than our talented Monica DeWitt. Her gold medal-winning recipe not only impressed the judges but also won the hearts (and taste buds) of everyone in attendance, securing the coveted People’s Choice Award.

As we gear up for this year’s cookoff, anticipation is running high. We’re excited to showcase our culinary prowess once again and defend our title against a slew of worthy competitors. With Monica DeWitt leading the charge, there’s no doubt that we’ll bring our A-game to the table.

What sets us apart from the competition is not just our dedication to brewing exceptional beers but also our commitment to creating unforgettable culinary experiences. Our chili is a testament to this ethos, combining bold flavors and fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create a dish that is as delicious as it is unique. And this year, we’re revealing the secret ingredient that makes our chili truly special: our very own Bike Lane Lager. This signature brew adds a rich, malty depth to the chili, elevating it to award-winning status.

Chili and Wings!

But the real magic of the Ocean Beach Street Fair and Chili Cookoff lies in the community spirit it fosters. It’s a chance for locals and visitors alike to come together, celebrate the best flavors of California, and indulge in some friendly competition. Whether you’re a chili connoisseur or just looking for a fun day out, the cookoff promises something for everyone.

And after the votes are counted, the excitement doesn’t end there. Head over to the main stage to watch Bill DeWitt as he attempts to win the Wing Eating competition. Cheer him on as he tries to win the crown and solidify Wild Ales legacy as champions of the Ocean Beach culinary scene.

So mark your calendars and join us on Sunday, June 22nd, as we return to Ocean Beach to defend our title at the 44th Annual Street Fair and Chili Cookoff. Come taste and vote for our award-winning chili, discover the magic of our Bike Lane Lager, and help us show why California Wild Ales is a force to be reckoned with in both the brewing and culinary worlds. We can’t wait to see you there!

Event Details:

  • What: Chili Cookoff /  Wing Eating Competition
  • When: June 22, 2024,  (11:00 – 1:30pm Chili  / 1:3opm Wings)
  • Where: Veterans Park, Ocean Beach

For further information about the launch event and to stay updated on this exciting release, please visit the OB Mainstreet Association Website or follow us on social media.