CollaBEERation Preview with Erik Coleman and Paul Marko

It’s the most unique beer festival in the country, and we’re going behind the scenes! Scott is joined by Brian Campbell (Buffalo Beer League), Paul Marco (Buffalo Beer Geeks), and Eric Coleman (Beer by Coleman) to talk about the magic, the logistics, and the "blood codes" behind CollaBEERation 2026.

Scott is drinking a Big Ditch Pineapple Hayburner, Brian has the First Line Foundations Dry Hop Lager, and Paul is rocking the new-look Hamburg Brewing Rusty Chain. Eric is staying hydrated for a busy catering gig tomorrow—true professional style.

• The Origin Story: Paul Marco breaks down how the fest grew from a desire to "bridge the gap" between breweries and consumers. It’s about more than just drinking; it’s about the beer fan learning the business and the brewer hearing the "geek" demand.
• The "Secret Sauce": Eric Coleman gives us a peek at the massive admin and logistics effort required to coordinate 40-60 unique, never-before-brewed beers across the region.
• The 8-Bit Theme: This year’s theme is Video Games. Expect pixels, 8-bit graphics, and some very creative "bloody" pours.
• Featured Collaborations:
• Hamburg x Beer Geeks x Flying Bison: A special "Brindle Porter" based on Tim Herzog’s original recipe, served on cask and aged on coconut and rum chips.
• Mystic Hills: "Finish Him"—a cherry lime sour with a Mortal Kombat "blood code" twist.
• Old First Ward: "Eternal Darkness"—a juicy Black New England IPA.
• New York Beer Project: A hoppy pale ale featuring color-changing glitter.
• The Cantillon Conflict: It’s a busy day in Buffalo! Zwanze Day is happening the same day at Moor Pat, making April 25th the ultimate "Uber Day" for local beer lovers.

• VIP: Sold Out! (But listen for tips on how to snag them earlier next year).
• General Admission: $70 + fees (includes unlimited pours and a commemorative glass).
• Designated Driver: Highly encouraged and available for a fraction of the price.
• Purchase at: CollabBeerationFest.com

Paul and the guys are giving away a pair of tickets to the festival!

1. Go to the Buffalo Beer Geeks Facebook group.
2. Find the post for this podcast.
3. Comment with #BuffaloBeerBuzz and mention the specific hat Paul is wearing (or something on Scott's shelf!).
4. Winner picked Friday, April 17th.

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• YouTube: Watch the full video version of this episode at YouTube.com/WNYBrews.

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