Harpoon Turns 40 and Throws a Birthday Bash Big Enough for All of New England
June 4, 2026
Four-day celebration features a 40th birthday party giveaway, Father’s Day festivities, a throwback beer, and can’t-miss experiences across the region
BOSTON, MA — [JUNE 4, 2026] Forty years in, and Harpoon Brewery, holder of Massachusetts brewing license #001, isn’t slowing down – it’s throwing an anniversary celebration that spans state lines.
From June 18-21, Harpoon is inviting fans, locals, and visitors alike to help it raise a glass to four decades of craft brewing. The four-day birthday bash will run across Harpoon’s three brewery locations: the Seaport District in Boston, MA; Manchester, NH; and Windsor, VT, and feature a packed lineup of 40th anniversary and Father’s Day festivities, exclusive giveaways, limited-edition releases, and unforgettable experiences.
A Four-Day Celebration Across Three States
Thursday, June 18 – “Love Beer” Night
A tribute to Harpoon’s roots and brewing legacy:
- Debut of a throwback beer that honors Harpoon’s signature flavor profile by using the same recipe and proprietary ale yeast as Harpoon Ale, the brewer’s first product release in 1986 (available in 16oz cans)
- Limited-edition food specials that incorporate Harpoon beer within the recipes
- Brewery tours in Boston and Windsor
- Brewer-led talks diving into Harpoon’s original ale recipe, house yeast, and history
Friday, June 19 – “Love Life” Night
A celebration of the people who’ve been part of Harpoon’s journey:
- Live music and welcome gifts for attendees
- Interactive scratch-card giveaway for the chance to win a vacation for two
- Celebration of long-standing Harpoon partners and friends of the brand
Saturday, June 20 – “Firsts Are Forever” Day
A high-energy, fan-driven party spanning Harpoon’s past, present, and future:
- “DJ Through the Generations” spinning hits from the ‘80s, ‘90s, and beyond
- On-site voting to bring back a retired Harpoon beer, putting the decision in fans’ hands
- Special brewery tours and beer tastings in Boston hosted by long-standing Harpooners who will deep dive into Harpoon’s history and beer making
Sunday, June 21 – Father’s Day Celebration
Harpoon closes out the weekend with a Father’s Day party packed with personality:
- A live “Dad Joke” Competition in Boston hosted by comedian and father of four, Willy Appelman (IG: @wappelman)
- A stand-up comedy set of parent-themed humor from a guest panel of comedians
- Yard games, food-eating challenges, live music, SWAG, and more
- Harpoon will announce the winner of their “First-Time Dad” Giveaway, where people can nominate a first-time dad for the chance to win the ultimate Dad Starter Pack (follow Harpoon on Instagram for entry details.
A 40th Birthday Bash Giveaway
In honor of this milestone and the community that has grown Harpoon into the largest craft brewery in New England, Harpoon will also give one lucky fan turning 40 in 2026 the chance to win the ultimate birthday experience.
The winner of the “Harpoon 40th Birthday Party Giveaway,” which runs May 1 through June 30, will receive a private birthday party at Harpoon for up to 40 guests, complete with games, great food, custom swag, and, of course, beer on tap. Fans who’d like to celebrate their 40th alongside one of the region’s most iconic breweries can enter to win on the Harpoon website.
“It’s hard to believe that it’s been four decades since Harpoon earned the first brewing permit in Massachusetts, because it still feels like yesterday,” said Dan Kenary, CEO of Harpoon Brewery. “While a lot has changed in 40 years, we maintain our commitment to bringing our local community together, and we’re looking forward to celebrating this moment in Harpoon’s history and inviting fans across New England to be part of our exciting next chapter.”
