The beer that gives back at the Iowa State Fair
The Iowa State Fair is buzzing with excitement, and one of the standout attractions this year is the Galaxy Groove, a special beer with a heartwarming story behind it. The exclusive release through Sam Adams is being served at the Bubbly Bar and Bistro, and all proceeds from its sales will go toward supporting visually impaired children in Iowa.
The Bubbly Bar and Bistro, now in its second year at the fair, is known for its stunning views and creative drinks. This year, the Galaxy Groove, an American Pale Ale with tropical notes, is stealing the spotlight. However, for owner Jennie Enloe, the beer represents much more than its flavor profile.
"Someone very special in the Bubbly Family won the brewing competition, and we are so proud for them to bring it to us, because our friend is visually impaired," Enloe said. That special someone is Jeremy Brown, a brewer Enloe affectionately calls her "non-biological nephew."
Their families have been close for decades, and Enloe has watched Brown grow into his passion for brewing.
Brown’s journey reached a milestone when he won the Boston Beer Company Homebrew Competition, earning the opportunity to have his beer featured by Sam Adams. Enloe saw this as a chance to give back.
"Just to see him come as far as he's grown over the past 30 years to come to this level and brew — he's so excited, and so I hope everyone can help me cheer him on," she said.
All proceeds from Galaxy Groove sales will be donated to programs that support visually impaired children in Iowa, helping them achieve their dreams just as Brown has.
"It's the programs, the teachers, the guides, the people who make these children grow up to be successful adults doing exactly what they want to do — for Jeremy, it's brewing beer," Enloe explained.
The Galaxy Groove experience is made even more fun with collectible astronaut rubber ducks — 10 designs in total — adding a playful touch to the meaningful initiative. With 80 kegs of beer available, fairgoers have plenty of opportunities to enjoy a cold drink while supporting a great cause.
I try not to cry too often, so maybe it's the first and second day jitters," Enloe said, "but just overwhelming joy and pride in such a quality beer."