From Beer Festival to Bonfires: The Perfect Pocono Weekend Starts at Skytop
Jan 16, 2026There’s something special about winter weekends in the Pocono Mountains. The air feels crisper, the scenery more dramatic and the pace just a little slower, in the best way. At Skytop Lodge, winter weekends are designed for connection, celebration and unforgettable moments, blending seasonal events with the cozy charm of a historic mountain resort. One standout highlight on the winter calendar is the Annual Winter Beer Fest, a can’t-miss experience that brings craft beer lovers together in one of the most scenic settings in Pennsylvania.
If you’re looking for Pennsylvania weekend trips that combine great beer, fresh mountain air and classic resort experiences, this is where it all comes together.
A Winter Beer Festival Worth Traveling For
This year, Skytop Lodge’s Annual Winter Beer Festival returns on Saturday, February 7, 2026, offering a refreshing take on Pocono Mountains festivals and events. Set outdoors on the South Porch and Formal Gardens, this event invites guests to bundle up, raise a glass and celebrate winter in true Skytop style.
Running from 12 PM to 3 PM, the Winter Beer Fest delivers the perfect blend of craft beer, live music and seasonal fare. Guests can sample an impressive lineup of local and regional breweries while enjoying sweeping views, crackling campfires and the lively energy that defines this signature Skytop event.
As interest in Pennsylvania beer festivals continues to grow, Skytop’s Winter Beer Fest stands out for its setting, its thoughtful curation and its ability to turn a single afternoon into a full weekend escape.
Craft Beer in the Heart of the Poconos
Beer tasting takes center stage at the Winter Beer Fest, with a rotating selection of craft brews from some of the region’s most well-known and well-loved producers. Breweries featured include:
This diverse lineup showcases the creativity and craftsmanship behind Pennsylvania’s thriving beer scene, making the festival a must for anyone exploring upcoming Pennsylvania beer festivals or searching for the best beer festivals in Pennsylvania.
Whether you gravitate toward bold winter ales, smooth lagers or seasonal favorites, the festival offers plenty of opportunities to discover new brews and revisit familiar ones.
Seasonal Flavors to Match Every Pour
No great beer festival is complete without equally memorable food, and Skytop’s Winter Beer Fest menu is crafted to complement every sip. Guests can enjoy hearty, cold-weather favorites designed to pair beautifully with craft beer, including:
- Bavarian Grilled Cheese Sandwich with smoked Gouda, caramelized onions and beer mustard on a pretzel roll
- Apple Parsnip Soup finished with brown butter and ale
- Polish Pierogis with butter, onions and sour cream
- Beer Braised Brat & Kraut Cup
These comforting dishes add warmth and depth to the experience, making the festival as satisfying as it is social.
Dress Warm, Stay Cozy
Because the Winter Beer Fest takes place outdoors, guests are encouraged to dress for the season. Winter coats, hats and gloves are part of the experience, and Skytop ensures comfort throughout the event with warming stations featuring campfires and heaters. It’s this thoughtful attention to detail that allows guests to relax, linger and truly enjoy the afternoon, no rushing required.
Tickets and Event Details
Winter Beer Fest tickets are priced to offer exceptional value for a premier Pocono beer festival experience:
- $65 for adults
- $25 for children
The event welcomes groups of friends, couples planning a winter escape and guests looking to build a full weekend around one unforgettable afternoon.
Turn the Festival Into a Weekend Getaway
While the Winter Beer Fest is reason enough to visit, Skytop Lodge makes it easy to extend the celebration with its Winter Beer Festival Package. Designed for guests who want to savor the entire weekend, this package transforms the event into a complete winter retreat.
The Winter Beer Fest Package includes:
- Overnight AAA Four Diamond accommodations with 10% savings
- Two tickets to the Winter Beer Fest on Saturday, February 7, 2026
- Evening campfires with marshmallow roasts
- Access to resort amenities such as hiking trails, hayrides, seasonal arts and crafts and more
It’s the perfect option for travelers planning scenic resort stays in PA who want both structure and flexibility built into their weekend.
More Than a Beer Festival
What truly sets Skytop apart when it comes to things to do in the Poconos is the variety of experiences available beyond the main event. After the festival winds down, guests can continue the evening around glowing campfires, enjoy quiet moments under the stars or explore the resort’s winter offerings at their own pace.
This blend of lively events and peaceful surroundings is what makes Skytop Lodge a favorite for Pennsylvania weekend trips year-round. The Winter Beer Fest simply adds another reason to visit during one of the most magical seasons in the Pocono Mountains.
A Seasonal Tradition in the Poconos
While many travelers associate fall festivals in the Poconos with harvest celebrations and autumn colors, winter brings its own sense of magic. Events like the Winter Beer Fest highlight how the season transforms the landscape and the experience into something entirely unique.
Snow-dusted grounds, warm fires and the shared enjoyment of craft beer create an atmosphere that feels festive without being overwhelming. It’s a relaxed, welcoming and unmistakably Skytop.
Plan Your February Escape
For those tracking upcoming Pennsylvania beer festivals or looking to plan a winter getaway with a built-in event, Skytop Lodge’s Winter Beer Fest is a standout choice. From the carefully selected breweries to the cozy outdoor setting, every detail is designed to help guests slow down, connect and enjoy the moment.
From beer festival afternoons to bonfire-lit evenings, the perfect Pocono weekend truly starts at Skytop. Mark your calendar for February 7, 2026, gather your favorite people and get ready to toast winter in the heart of the Pocono Mountains.