Best Places To Buy A Keg Of Beer

If you're looking to buy a keg of beer, there are a few options available to you. You can try your local liquor store, grocery store, or even Wal-Mart. If you're in a college town, convenience stores like Walgreens or CVS may also sell kegs. Alternatively, you can try a beverage distribution company, either by going directly to their headquarters or by ordering through a bar. Some companies, like Mr. Kegs, will even deliver the keg to you and provide set-up. When buying a keg, you'll need to pay for the beer and a deposit for the keg itself, which you'll get back when you return the empty keg. You may also need to buy or rent a tap.

Keg prices

The price of a keg of beer depends on several factors, including the size of the keg, the brand of beer, and the location of purchase. A full-size keg typically holds 15.5 gallons (165 12-ounce beers) and can range in price from $79 to $225 or more, depending on the brand. For example, a full keg of Budweiser costs around $174, while a full keg of Dogfish Head might cost around $225.

Smaller kegs are also available, such as the quarter barrel (7.75 gallons) and the sixth barrel (5.2 gallons), which typically cost less but provide fewer servings. The cost of renting a keg tap, bucket, and other accessories should also be considered, as these can add an additional $50 or more to the total cost.

When purchasing a keg, it is essential to plan ahead and place your order in advance to ensure that your desired beer is available. Additionally, a refundable deposit is usually required when renting a keg, which can range from $30 to $75 or more.

Where to buy in-store

When buying a keg of beer in-store, you can visit a liquor store, brewery, winery, or even some restaurants. It is important to plan in advance and choose a store that is close to your party venue and sells the type of beer you want. Some popular stores that sell kegs of beer include:

• Beer Run: Located at 156 Carlton Rd, C'Ville, VA 22902, Beer Run offers a wide variety of kegs, including popular brands such as Allagash White, Blue Moon, Budweiser, and Guinness. They also provide buckets and taps for rent.
• The Liquor Book: The Liquor Book offers local delivery and in-store pickup within 60 minutes. They have a range of keg sizes, including 1/2 barrel, 1/4 barrel, and 1/6 barrel, with popular brands such as Pabst Blue Ribbon, Bell's Amber Ale, and Blue Moon Belgian White.

When visiting these or other stores, remember to bring proper identification and be prepared to pay deposits and beer costs. It is also a good idea to place your order in advance to ensure that your preferred beer is available.

Keg permits

In states with keg registration laws, retailers are required to keep records that include the name and address of the purchaser, the date and location where the beer will be served, and the type and quantity of beer purchased. Some states, like California, specify a minimum volume for keg registration (seven US gallons or 26 litres), while others, like New York and Washington, set the minimum at four US gallons (15 litres).

If you are planning to serve beer from a keg at a wedding, fundraiser, or other special event, you may need to obtain a banquet permit or a special occasion permit, depending on the nature of the event and the organisation hosting it. These permits are typically issued by your state's liquor control board and require you to provide information about the event and pay a fee, which is usually around $50.

It is important to note that keg registration and permit requirements can vary by state and locality, so it is always a good idea to check with your local authorities or the retailer from whom you are purchasing the keg to ensure you are complying with all applicable laws and regulations.

Keg rental accessories

When renting a keg, you will also need to rent accessories to help you serve the beer. Here are some of the most common keg rental accessories:

Tap

A tap is needed to attach to the keg to dispense the beer. Most places charge a refundable rental fee (around $50) and a non-refundable cleaning fee (around $10-$15).

Bucket for chilling

Many places offer chilling buckets or tubs for rental. These are large containers that the keg will sit in, along with ice, to keep the keg cold. Some places offer these for free with the purchase of a certain amount of ice.

Kegerator

A kegerator is a refrigerator designed to hold a keg and allow for easy beer dispensing. They can be rented by the day, week, or month, or on a rent-to-own plan. They are a good option for those who want to regularly have kegs on hand.

Jockey box

A jockey box is a mini cooler with tubing that beer flows through to a tap. It can be hooked up to a keg and a carbon dioxide unit to produce cold beer on tap. Jockey boxes can be rented with 1, 2, or 4 taps.

In addition to these accessories, you will also need to purchase or rent CO2 or nitrogen gas refills to keep your beer fresh and carbonated.

Returning the keg

Returning a keg of beer is a straightforward process, but there are a few important steps to keep in mind to ensure you receive your deposit back and avoid any issues. Here is a detailed guide on returning your keg:

Empty the Keg

It is essential to remove all the beer from the keg before returning it. Some establishments require kegs to be returned empty, and since you have already paid for the beer, it is best to consume or store it before returning the keg. You will not receive a refund for any leftover beer, and it is important to note that even if the keg is full, you will not get a refund if you request one.

Remove the Tap

Before transporting the keg, make sure to detach the tap. Keeping the tap attached may be considered having an open container, which is illegal in the United States. Ensure the tap is removed to avoid any legal issues during transportation.

Return by the Deadline

While you don't need to return the keg the morning after your party, it is crucial to return it within the specified timeframe. Establishments usually provide a deadline for returning the keg, which could range from 5 days to 2 weeks. Make sure you are aware of the deadline and return the keg promptly.

Return All Rented Items

In addition to the keg, remember to return any rented items, such as taps, buckets, or other accessories. Returning all the rented items together will ensure you receive any refundable fees associated with the keg and its accessories without any issues.

Ensure the Sticker is Intact

The retailer will place an identifying sticker on the keg when you pick it up. This sticker is necessary for the retailer to confirm that the returned keg is the one that was initially rented out. Make sure this sticker remains on the keg and is clearly visible when you return it.

Return the Keg in Good Condition

When you signed the paperwork during pickup, you accepted responsibility for the keg and its contents. This includes ensuring that the keg and all rented items are returned in the same condition as when you received them. Make sure the keg is not damaged and that all parts are intact before returning it to the retailer.

Return the Keg in Person

When renting the keg, you were required to provide the name of the person who would return it. This person is typically the same individual who rented the keg and will receive the refundable deposit. Establishments may refuse to accept the return if someone other than the specified person tries to return the keg and equipment. Ensure that the authorized person is available to return the keg to avoid any complications.

By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free return process for your keg of beer. Remember to plan your return in advance and be timely to receive your deposit and conclude the rental process satisfactorily.

Frequently asked questions