Fire Fest Returns to Millvale, Warmth and Brews Light Up Winter

Grist House Craft Brewery staged its seventh annual Fire Fest on December 9 at the Millvale property, turning a cold winter day into a glowing community gathering. The festival ran through the afternoon and evening, with more than ten custom fire pits and tabletop Solo Stoves placed across indoor and outdoor spaces so guests could move between warm spots and the brewery taproom.

Attendees sampled a lineup of specialty stouts, including the highly anticipated Fire Fest Reserve, and warm cocktails created just for the event. Grist House also offered a limited Holiday Mix 6 pack featuring Frosted Silence, Fire on the Hill, and Dark Night, giving visitors a take home option for the season. Admission was free, and organizers encouraged guests to dress warmly and arrive early, saying the fires would take care of the rest.

The day highlighted craft and performance as much as beer. The traveling Hot Wheels glassblowing team from the Pittsburgh Glass Center returned with live demonstrations, and from 5:00 to 9:00 PM Amfibeon Flow Arts and Entertainment staged fire performances that drew evening crowds. Public artists and performers brought a bright visual element that complemented the physical warmth of the pits and stoves.

Local food businesses benefited from the traffic as four food trucks parked outside the brewery. Streets on the Fly, Yovis Hot Dogs, Red Eye BBQ, and Taqueria El Pastorcito provided a range of hot food options that matched the festival palette. Back by popular demand, the Gristmas Tree offered surprise gifts and a festive focal point, and visitors reported spotting a surprise appearance from Santa during the evening.

“Fire Fest has become a signature winter tradition for us,” said Brian Eaton, co owner of Grist House. “It’s the perfect blend of craft beer, creativity, and good old fashioned fun. We love seeing our space come alive with fire pits, specialty brews, and the energy of everyone who bundles up and joins us each year.”

For community members who missed this year, the event underscored how seasonal programming can sustain local businesses and cultural partners through winter months, while giving beer lovers a memorable way to taste limited releases and celebrate with neighbors.