HALETHORPE, Md (WMAR) — For some people, ringing in the new year once just isn't enough. Many celebrated twice, with the help of Guinness Brewery in Halethorpe.
"You can celebrate once with us, celebrating midnight in Ireland, and then head out and celebrate midnight here in Baltimore, as well so 2 New Year's for the price of one," Guinness Brewery Ambassador Ryan Wagner said.
They opened at 3 p.m., welcoming hundreds in to celebrate at 7 p.m., midnight in Ireland. It's their first big New Year's Eve party. They opened back in August and have already had 150,000 visitors, quickly becoming a local favorite.
"Fanatic renovation of the structure, the vista is wonderful, the architecture is great, the food is yummy and the beer is... *gives thumbs up*," Paul Griffin said.
Along with tours, they will unveil a new limited release beer at 7, giving everyone a free sample to toast with. The only hint they will give me so far is that it's fruity. It's one of the many reasons the Morley's decided to spend their holiday here.
"We are celebrating our first anniversary. Last year, we got married in Roanoke and had craft beer on tap so drinking craft beer is part of what we do as a couple," Nina Morley said.
As many create new traditions, Guinness celebrates a very old one: 259 to be exact.
"December 31st is a remarkable day in Guinness history because that’s the date of the signing of Arthur Guinness’ 9,000-year lease on St. James Gate, our historic brewery in Dublin, so not only is this a celebration of the new year but it’s our birthday celebration in many ways," Wagner said.
The will be open until 9 p.m. and have partnered with the ride sharing app Lyft to make sure everyone gets to their next destination safely. If you take a Lyft to the brewery and show your receipt to a staff member, you get $20 off your next ride.
