If you’re like me, you live in a place where the weather dictates much of what you can do outdoors. This is especially true in the winter. But there are activities that I enjoy too much to stop just because it gets cold. For example, I love to grill year-round and will shovel snow to get to my grill, if needed. Another activity I want to do year-round is enjoy a beer on my patio. So, I’ve created a Winter Beer Garden so I can brave the weather and still enjoy the great outdoors with a beer in my hand.
For some of you, this sounds insane because why spend time in the cold when you can be inside. And while most of the time I’d agree, there are days when the weather is really nice, it is just a touch too cold, particularly at night. For those moments, there are things you can do to take the bite out of the cold weather and remain outside a bit longer.
Setting Up My Winter Beer Garden
Seating Area
Not sure this category was necessary but since it is the most important part, I included it. So yes, having seating for yourself and your guests is the most important item. No one wants to stand outside and drink beer with you.
However, there are a few elements to my outdoor seating area that I think are worth noting which make it well suited to be a winter beer garden.
First, it is covered. Being covered is quite nice as it keeps most of the snow out of that area and helps it feel a bit more “cozy”. Second, there’s a sunshade installed on the side facing West to help protect my guests from the bold rays at sunset. It also helps cut down on wind which often comes from that direction. And, of course, I have ample seating for everyone.
Newair Heater
So, it’s cold outside, you’re going to need a way to stay warm. Lucky for me, the gazebo covering this space gives me a great way to do this with the Newair Outdoor Infrared Ceiling Space Heater (Model NOH17GBK00).
As the name implies, this is a space heater designed to be used outdoors and can be ceiling mounted. Seems repetitive to say that but I think it’s important to recognize how unique this unit is. Easy to install and plugs into a standard outlet, this unit from Newair provides the ability to fight off the chill and extend your evening.
I mounted this unit in the center of the space with the provided chain. However, I plan to move it to hang above the seating and lower it a bit to maximize effectiveness.
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Newair Beer Fridge
While you could easily go inside every time you want another beer, the reality is you aren’t going to want to move very far once you’re comfortable. Getting up will likely remind you how cold it is and going inside will only tempt you to stay in there.
So, keep your beer close with a Newair Outdoor Beer Fridge (Model NCR053SS00).
They sell different size models if you need something a bit smaller, but I opted for the larger 24″ model. My thought process is it will allow me to meet the needs of any season or any event. While winter get togethers might be a bit smaller when it is cold, my summer parties can get pretty large, so I didn’t want capacity to be an issue.
This unit is stainless steel inside and out so it can stand up to tough conditions which is really important in areas where snow, rain, and sun will be a factor. It can be used freestanding or built-in. Maybe someday, I’ll build an outdoor kitchen, and this will still be the perfect beer fridge for that space.
The interior lights up like a Christmas tree making it easy to find your favorite beer, even if it is dark out. There’s a sensor that turns the light on and off with opening the door. And there’s even an alarm if the door is left open. And with adjustable shelves, I can make sure it meets the needs of whatever event I’m having.
I think what I love the most about it is I could easily move it inside when I’m not planning on hosting outdoor events. The flexibility is endless with this fridge.
Want an outdoor beer fridge for yourself?
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Lights
As the season changes and the days get cold, the sun sets a bit earlier than the rest of the year. So, if you are going to have a winter beer garden, you’ll need a way to light up your space. For me, I think it is best to keep it simple and go with standard string lights.
These have large bulbs and provide plenty of light while also giving the space a bit of character and ambience. They are designed to be mounted outdoors making it easy to arrange them to fit your space.
Fire Table
Another option for light as well as some heat is a fire table. These have become quite popular over the past few years, and it is easy to see why. While fire pits can be fun, the prep, maintenance, and smoke aren’t for everyone.
A fire table provides an easy way to give your space a great feel while getting some light and warmth into it as well. Make sure you fill up the propane tank at the beginning of the season and you’ll be set.
Winter Beer Garden Extras
Music: A great backdrop to your conversation, I tend to use a small portable Bluetooth speaker. But you may prefer upgrading to a nice built-in setup for bigger sound.
Blankets: Only word of caution, blankets might not work well with the fire table. But besides that, it’s a great way to add even more warmth to your space.
Cigars: As the evening progresses, it might feel like the right time to enjoy a cigar with your beer. Check out my thoughts on craft beer & cigars.
Koozies: While these are often thought of as a way to keep beer cold in the summer, I think they are just as important to protect your hand from the cold can in the winter.
Final Winter Beer Garden Necessities
This goes without saying but I’ll say it anyways. You are going to need beer as well as friends and family to complete your winter beer garden. While I do enjoy a beer solo on occasion, the best beer is the one you enjoy with great people.
So, are you going to upgrade your outdoor space into a winter beer garden?
