Is it the end of an era for Fargo's craft beer scene? Fargo Brewing Company, a cornerstone of the local community for over a decade, is preparing to pour its last pint next month, a somber announcement that marks the closure of a beloved establishment, and a significant shift in the region's brewery landscape.
The news, shared with a mix of nostalgia and gratitude, has sent ripples of sadness and reflection through the city. After 14 years of brewing, sharing stories, and countless toasts with its patrons, Fargo Brewing Company is preparing to bid farewell. The company, a fixture in Fargo's social fabric, has weathered the storms of economic fluctuations and shifting consumer preferences, but the burden of mounting debts has proven too heavy to bear. The brewing company itself has always been more than just a place to grab a beer; it has been a community hub, a venue for concerts and events, and a space where memories were made.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Company Name | Fargo Brewing Company |
| Location | Fargo, North Dakota |
| Founded | 2011 (as Fargo Brewing Company), 2010 (as Fargo Beer Co.) |
| Founders | Aaron Hill, Jared Hardy, Chris Anderson, John Anderson |
| Initial Brewing Location | Black River Falls, Wisconsin (Fargo Beer Co.) |
| Current Brewing Location | 610 N. 4th Ave, Fargo, ND |
| Key Features | Brewpub, The Hall (Event Space), Taproom |
| Partnerships | Jade Presents (Concert Promoter), Nova Eatery |
| Recent Developments | Declared Bankruptcy in 2024, announced closure next month |
| Community Involvement | Hosted events such as the Fargo Brewing Company 5k, supported local businesses, and provided a space for community gatherings. |
| Notable Events Hosted | Concerts, beer dinners, art openings, private events, and the annual 5k run/walk. |
| Associated Businesses | Nova Eatery, Nice Barber Company |
The company's announcement, shared on social media, echoed the sentiments of its loyal customers. The post conveyed a deep sense of gratitude for the community's unwavering support over the years. "After 14 years of blood, sweat, and beers," the message read, "Fargo Brewing Company will bid farewell to the community we've loved so much." The sentiment underscores the brewery's integral role in the social and cultural life of Fargo, North Dakota. The news of the closure has been met with an outpouring of support and appreciation from the community.
Fargo Brewing's journey began in 2010 as Fargo Beer Co., brewing its beer in Black River Falls, Wisconsin. The business evolved into Fargo Brewing by 2013, and by then, began brewing beer within the city limits. The company quickly established itself as a prominent player in the local craft beer scene. The brewery offered a wide selection of beers, a welcoming atmosphere, and a commitment to community engagement. The brewpub, the taproom, and especially the Hall, which offered space for concerts, art openings, private events, and other community gatherings.
Beyond its role as a purveyor of fine craft beer, Fargo Brewing Company was a place of connection. It was where friends gathered, celebrations unfolded, and memories were made. The Hall, in particular, served as a versatile space for community events, enhancing Fargo's cultural landscape.
The challenges faced by Fargo Brewing mirror those experienced by many small businesses, particularly in the hospitality industry. The brewery declared bankruptcy in 2024, which, though it allowed the company to remain in operation for a while, ultimately couldn't overcome the financial hurdles. At the time of the filing, the company reported its top 20 creditors at $2.1. The decision to close marks the end of an era for the brewery and the Fargo community, and is a sobering reminder of the risks and rewards of small business.
The brewing company is located in the heart of Fargo, the building at 610 N. 4th Ave. The hall and Fargo Brewing Company parking lot is located on the west side of the building. Customers are reminded that there is an overflow parking lot located one block to the west on the corner of 7th Ave. N and 14th St. They're also asked to refrain from parking in the family fare parking lot located to the north.
As the final chapter approaches, Fargo Brewing Company is encouraging its customers to share their stories and raise a glass to the memories made within its walls. The staff is looking forward to toasting with customers for a few more weeks. In the final weeks of operation, the brewery is asking fans to stop by the taproom to share stories and raise a glass with staff who've worked tirelessly and stock up on cans and fill growlers.
While the closure of Fargo Brewing Company is a significant loss, the spirit of the craft beer community in Fargo remains strong. Other breweries, such as Drekker Brewing, which sprang up in 2014 as a north Fargo brewery and taproom and Brewhalla, Fargo's food, drink, shopping, and entertainment wonderland, continue to thrive. The industry needs your help to keep writing the stories of other breweries in the area, Fargo Brewing added. Its a testament to the passion and resilience of the local business community.
The brewpub's legacy will continue to resonate within the community for years to come. From its humble beginnings as Fargo Beer Co. to its evolution into the beloved Fargo Brewing Company, the business has played a significant role in shaping Fargo's social scene. The business has not only provided quality products, but also created a space for people to gather, celebrate, and build lasting connections. It is a reminder of the important role local businesses play in fostering a vibrant and thriving community.
The news of the closure also impacts other businesses and events connected to Fargo Brewing Company. Jade Presents, a concert promoter that has partnered with Fargo Brewing Company for numerous events, will move all previously announced outdoor concerts at Fargo Brewing to a new venue called Up District Festival Field. Nova Eatery, located inside Fargo Brewing Company, continues to offer a small rotating menu of meats, veggies, and snacks. The Nice Barber Company, which is housed in the same building as Fargo Brewing Company, recently announced its move to a new location at 1320 1st Avenue North.
As the final weeks of operation approach, the Fargo Brewing Company invites the community to join them in celebrating their legacy. The team is looking forward to sharing stories, toasting with customers, and offering one last opportunity to experience the unique atmosphere of the brewpub. For those who have been a part of the Fargo Brewing story, this is a chance to say goodbye, thank you, and raise a glass to the memories.
The company will later announce plans for an official last call. Fans are also encouraged to grab a Red River Winery Trek passport and visit each of the locations to earn a prize! For those interested in exploring the current offerings, Fargo Brewing is available on Untappd, complete with full beers, ratings, reviews, suggestions, and more.
The Fargo Brewing Company 5k, brought to you by the Fargo Brewing Company & Solemotion race management, is a perfect example of community involvement. The event, which takes place on nice summer evenings, offers participants a chance to take part in a fun run/walk and enjoy a cold beer, courtesy of the Fargo Brewing Company. This event is just one of the many ways the company has supported and engaged with the Fargo community over the years.
Fargo Brewing Company, in its final weeks of operation, serves as a poignant reminder of the cyclical nature of business and the value of community. The legacy of Fargo Brewing will continue to resonate within the Fargo community long after the doors close for the final time. This is not just a loss of a business but the end of an era in Fargo, North Dakota, and the community will surely miss it.
