Who We Are

The Ale Riders Homebrew Club was founded in 1995 by a group of passionate homebrewers who met at Rapid City's first homebrew shop, the Beer Barrel. Back then, craft beer selections were nothing like they are today, so brewing sessions were a regular event where the entire homebrew process was tested, taught, and tried. These gatherings became the foundation for a club built on education, experimentation, and a shared love of great beer.

Today, the Ale Riders remain a vibrant community. We're basically a laid-back group of folks who are into making and enjoying fermented stuff, especially homebrew! We get together to hang out, learn more about brewing, and share our passion with the local community. We also want to be a good resource for what's going on in the beer, mead, and wine scene around Rapid City and the Black Hills, support our local breweries and businesses, and encourage folks to enter brewing competitions. Ultimately, we're all about having a good time, brewing responsibly, and supporting the right to homebrew!!

We are also proud to be a family-friendly social club. Many of our gatherings—especially brew sessions, potlucks, picnics, and our annual campout—are welcoming to spouses, partners, and kids. These events are relaxed, community-oriented, and designed so that everyone can feel included, whether they actively brew or simply enjoy the social side of the club.

So, whether you brew every weekend, are just getting started, or simply appreciate good company in a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere, the Ale Riders Homebrew Club invites you to be part of our tradition as the longest active homebrew club in Rapid City, South Dakota!