from Tucker Gerrick, Fulton Brewery

Join the fun at the 4th annual Fulton Gran Fondo, an event of bikes, bands, and beer. Both the long and medium routes depart in the morning of May 6th from the Fulton Production Brewery, in northeast Minneapolis. This year, both the 100 mile “Gran” and the shorter 45-50 mile “Medio” Fondo will be offered. The Gran Fondo starts at 9:00 am and the Medio starts at 11:00 am. A free block party begins from 1:00 pm until 9:00pm and is open to all. One highlight of the days activities includes the unveiling of a Session IPA, called Hopstar. Plus, Fulton’s favorite brews and the “Highplains Grifter” beer cocktail will be returning.

While still working on building in 2014, what is now our Northeast Minneapolis production brewery (as if we didn’t have enough to do already), we came up with the idea of putting together a bike ride. More specifically, a century ride with a celebration at the finish line. Many of us were and continue to be avid cyclists. Our taproom in downtown Minneapolis was a frequent stopover for many of those commuting to/from work and has continued to be a weekend destination for those on a bike. Partnering with our friends at All-City Cycles, we also created the All-City X Fulton cyclo-cross team. Now fancying ourselves not only a bike friendly brand, but also a bike forward part of the community.

In Its First Year Fulton’s Gran Fondo Was a Surprising Success

The first year of the Fulton Grand Fondo, we had hoped (between staff, friends and family) to get a couple hundred riders. Much to our surprise, we ended up with 600 cyclists who registered. We quickly learned how passionate, dedicated and fun our new cycling (and drinking) buddies were. We called the day a success and promised to do it again.

Fast forward three years and we’re proudly hosting our 4th annual Fulton Gran Fondo. In the past few years, we’ve added a Medio (45-50 mile) route. We have also built up an incredibly dynamic and entertaining block party to welcome everyone back at the end of the Fondo. We’ve donated thousands of dollars to local charitable partners, while never going thirsty making it happen. At the block party this year, we’re excited to announce the launch of a brand new beer, Hopstar, which will be served alongside Fulton’s other favorites like Lonely Blonde, Sweet Child of Vine, 300 Mosaic IPA, and our Standard Lager.

Registration for this year’s ride is open through the end of April and you can sign up for either the 50 or 100 mile route by following this link​. For those who are​ out to cheer on the riders, are on the injured list, or simply just want to relax that day, we’ve got you covered too.

Shortly After the Medio Fondo Takes Off the Free Block Party Begins

The Fulton Gran Fondo block party is free to attend and begins a few short hours after the first mass start. This year’s musical lineup is the finest we’ve created yet featuring: Catbath, RLGDPPL, Posh Lost, Koo Koo Kanga Roo, Monica LaPlante and Dem Atlas. Plus, “Camp Fondo,” a Minnesota Chef Camp, will provide a curated space for food, activities, and a selection of Fulton’s community partners for all to enjoy.

We hope you’ll join us Saturday, May 6th to celebrate cycling, good food, and great beer at the Fulton Gran Fondo.