Just this week, Forest City Brewery announced that since opening almost nine years ago and allowing its taproom to have children under adult supervision, the Cleveland brewery will no longer permit those under the age of 16 on the premises due to issues with irresponsible parents.
In a social media post on September 21, while acknowledging that many families have acted responsibly, the brewery emphasized that it can no longer tolerate situations where children’s safety, customers, and the business are at risk.
It has been a spot of contention for many brewery owners and taproom managers while debates and discussions continue for each business both personally and online as some breweries look for ways to minimize incidents while others do look to have a “family feel.”
“We wanted to make sure that our space was family friendly, we found that if you can keep the little ones occupied and happy it’s a better experience for everyone in the taproom, especially for the parents,” said Lawson’s Finest Liquids’ Taproom and Retail Manager Katie Renish. “Having entertainment is definitely worth having, they’re used every day.”
Lilliana Cruz, the Marketing Manager for Twin Oast said they strive to create a unique experience that everyone can enjoy; including the “half-pints.”
“Although I understand why some businesses may need to implement children-related policies, we don’t find that necessary in our case,” she said. “In fact, I believe that appealing to children/families has a positive impact on our brand which is why we take kids into consideration when planning events.”
The Port Clinton, Ohio spot offers a children’s menu, “haus-made” root beer, for example.
“Some children simply love it because they still get that ‘beer pouring’ experience,” she told Brewer — board games, apparel, and even activities such as family-friendly movie nights, crafts, or vendors at festivals.
“That way children also get as much fun out of our brewery as the adults,” Cruz said. “Being a family-friendly business is also a big hit during the summer when families can enjoy our expansive outdoor space. While the adults get to enjoy a drink and mingle, the kids can safely play — and tire themselves out — within the parents’ view. It’s a win/win for everyone.”
Lawson’s arcade set up is mostly used by kids, Renish said.
“They’ll run right for the consoles as soon as they come in,” she said.
Cornhole is used by people of all ages, Renish added while they probably see the least amount of action for the brewery’s checkers set up.
READ MORE: Ways to Create a Family Atmosphere in Your Taproom
“I think having additional entertainment is very helpful in attracting consumers, it helps our space appeal to families who are looking for somewhere to have a “night out” with their kids in tow as well as first dates or outings where people are more comfortable being somewhat occupied during their visit.
Here are some event and activity examples that Kyle Park of Neshaminy Creek shared with Brewer recently to showcase how the brewery caters to be more family-friendly.
- Board games and old-school arcade games
- Neshaminy Creek coloring pages
- Sidewalk chalk outside
- Snow machine in the winter
- Bounce house at events
- Pumpkin painting and carving and other crafts in the fall
- Daily food trucks, including types like a cookie truck
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