STOCKTON BOROUGH, N.J. (Hunterdon County) — The 2026 Hunterdon County Beer Trail Passport season officially began May 31 with a record-setting launch party that drew more than 650 attendees to Prallsville Mills in Stockton, county officials said.
Hosted by the Hunterdon County Department of Economic Development and Tourism, the event celebrated the start of another Beer Trail season and highlighted the county’s growing craft brewery industry.
The launch party brought together residents, visitors, local businesses and craft beverage enthusiasts for an afternoon featuring participating breweries, food vendors, live entertainment and opportunities to learn more about the breweries included in the Beer Trail program.
The Beer Trail Passport encourages participants to visit breweries throughout Hunterdon County, collect passport stamps and explore the communities, restaurants, farms, shops, parks and attractions located across the county.
County officials said the program has become one of Hunterdon County’s signature tourism initiatives, drawing visitors from across New Jersey and neighboring states while supporting local businesses and promoting the county’s craft beverage industry.
“The launch party marks the beginning of another exciting Beer Trail season and an opportunity for people to discover the many breweries, restaurants, farms, and small businesses that contribute to Hunterdon County’s vibrant tourism economy,” said Commissioner Susan Soloway, co-liaison to the Department of Economic Development and Tourism. “With passport season now officially underway, we encourage everyone to get out, collect stamps, visit new places, and experience everything that makes Hunterdon County a premier destination.”
With the kickoff event complete, participants can now begin collecting passport stamps at participating breweries throughout the county.
Officials said the Beer Trail program is designed to do more than promote local breweries. It also encourages visitors to explore downtown business districts, agricultural destinations, outdoor recreation opportunities and other small businesses across Hunterdon County.
County leaders said the initiative continues to strengthen the local tourism economy by increasing visitation and encouraging spending at businesses throughout the region.
Information about participating breweries, passport requirements and prize opportunities is available at participating locations and online at explorehunterdonnj.com.
