We are big fans of Red Bear Brewing Company and the amazing space they have created in Washington, DC. We caught up with founder Simon Bee to find out more about their beer and some of the fun and inclusive events that have made them famously popular!

Simon and his partners Bryan Van Den Oever and Cameron Raspet have worked hard to create a space that celebrates gay culture, and they are very intentional about welcoming everyone. It’s that special kind of place where people of all ages, genders and classes come together for great conversation and fun – a place where everyone feels at home. But it is that inclusive fun that we love so much – the comedy shows, drag brunches and their recent “Come out & Slaaaaaaaay” Pride beer release. Their close proximity to Gallaudet University, the world’s top research university for the deaf and hard-of-hearing, has helped them create a very popular ASL (America Sign Language) trivia night. In just a few years, Red Bear has added so much character and sense of community to the NoMa neighborhood.

Says Simon,”The spirit of craft beer is bringing people together to enjoy a crafted, unique product. It’s a wonderful thing to share and connect people from all walks of life.”

Red Bear Brewing isn’t all fun and games. They are making some great beer and spearheading some cool collaborations. They recently collaborated with Black Viking to make “Stroop, There It Is,” reflecting the camaraderie and fun these DC-based breweries are building. Simon emphasizes the importance of collaborating with emerging and growing Black-owned breweries, many of whom are working hard to find brick and mortar spaces.

Next up is their collaboration with another favorite brewery of ours, Urban Garden – keep your eyes peeled for it this July! “We’re so excited to collaborate with our friends at Urban Garden Brewing! I’m not going to let the cat out of the bag yet, but it will showcase some unusual ingredients, have some Belgian characteristics and will be light and refreshing for summer sipping.”

Next time you are in the DC area, make sure you check out Red Bear Brewing Company – where Diversity is Delicious™.