Troegs Mad Elf Takes Over Philadelphia

Photo via Flickr/Sonnett

Troegs Brewing Company makes many successful year-round brews, but by far the most popular offering from the Hershey, PA brewery is Mad Elf, a winter seasonal released in limited quantities each December. A Belgian strong dark ale with a fruity, spicy nose and a chocolatey cherry flavor, the beer packs a punch at 11% ABV. Check out five upcoming events around Philly where you can toss back the Elf - a sure way to combat cold weather blues.

The Abbaye
Wednesday, December 12
It’s “buy the glass night” at this Northern Liberties bar - hand over $10 and receive a keepsake glass full of Mad Elf or other Troegs brews such as Perpetual IPA, Dreamweaver Wheat and a Scratch series Belgian. Expect raffles, giveaways and plenty of holiday cheer at the 7-9 PM event (215-627-6711).

Philadelphia Bar and Restaurant
Thursday, December 13
Head to the Old City tavern to experience “It’s a Mad Mad World” from 6 PM-close. A vertical tasting flight will feature Mad Elf vintages from 2010, 2011 and 2012. Also on offer will be Troegs Java Head, Dreamweaver Wheat, Perpetual IPA, Troegenator and a surprise Scratch series brew (215-925-7691).

Dark Horse Cavanaugh’s Headhouse
Thursday, December 13
The Mad Elf tapping party starts at 7 PM at this recently revamped Headhouse Square pub. Look for Santa’s Elves in the house, apparently playing hookey from the North Pole. What does that mean, exactly? We’re not sure, but with plenty of high-octane brew, it’s bound to be fun (215-928-9307).

Revolution House
Friday, December 14
This Old City bar is featuring the newest creation from the minds at Troegs: Mad Dreams, a half-and-half mix of Mad Elf and the summer beer Dreamweaver Wheat. A $5 entrance fee gets you into the 7-9:30 PM party, plus one free drink ticket and one free raffle ticket. Wear your worst to participate in the ugly sweater contest, and nibble on $2 off pizzas while watching Christmas movies on the heated deck (215-625-4566).

Perch Pub
Wednesday, December 19
Wear your snowman patterned knits when you head to the second floor Broad Street bar between 7-10 PM to drink some Mad Elf, because every single person who wears an ugly sweater will receive a prize. Also pouring will be Troegs Scratch #80, and brewery rep Matt will be on site with giveaways (215-546-4090).