MoonLyte Brewing Company – Brewing Excitement in Chisholm!
There’s a real buzz around MoonLyte Brewing Company as they share updates on the progress of what’s soon to become Chisholm’s very own local brewery!
The ownership team — Jeffrey & Helen Kukowski, Richard Jacklen, John (Blue) Bonnette, Brian Eichholz, and Michael Sederlund — bring years of passion and expertise in craft beer to this exciting project.
To celebrate Minnesota Beer Day on November 1, 2025, the team hosted an open house that gave guests a sneak peek at their progress. Attendees toured the “Field of Dreams”-inspired space, browsed new MoonLyte merchandise, and enjoyed great conversation around a cozy fire.
In honor of the day, they also offered pre-sales of 2025 Minnesota Beer Day signature pint glasses, paired with MoonLyte Brewery can koozies for pickup at the event — a big hit with visitors!
The team is targeting a Spring 2026 grand opening, so be sure to follow them on Facebook for the latest updates. After their successful open house sales, they’re in the process of restocking merchandise — check back soon at www.moonlytebrewingco.com to grab yours!
What it Minnesota Beer Day?
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Minnesota Beer Day celebrates the history, tradition, culture and community of beer in Minnesota, particularly focused on craft breweries and local brewing. Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild+2Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild+2
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It’s held annually on November 1st. Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild
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Breweries and taprooms around Minnesota participate with special promotions, limited-edition glasses, custom brews, and other events. Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild
Why November 1
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The date honors a historic milestone: on November 1, 1850, John Orth Brewing Company (in what was then Minnesota Territory) started operating, making it the second brewery in the territory. Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild+1
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Also on November 1, 1895, the same business (by then part of the Grain Belt story) placed an ad announcing the naming of their beer. Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild
️ Official recognition
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The movement to establish this day involved advocacy by the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild (MCBG). Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild+1
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In 2024 the Minnesota Senate passed a resolution on March 21, and the House passed one on April 10, recognizing November 1 as Minnesota Beer Day. Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild+1
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On July 12, 2024, the governor’s office issued a proclamation. Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild
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Note: It is not a paid state holiday for workers—it’s a designated celebration day, not meaning closures or paid leave. Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild
How it works / what to expect
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Breweries can participate by ordering branded pint glasses (minimum order ~72 glasses) and running promotions like discounted pours, glass plus fill deals, special events, or unique taproom experiences. Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild+1
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For example: one brewery offered the special glass for $6 or $10 with a beer fill. Utepils Brewing
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The event also serves as a driver for “drink local, shop local” behavior, especially heading into the slower winter months. Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild
Historical & cultural significance
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Beer was being brewed in the Minnesota territory before Minnesota became a state (statehood in 1858). Mill City Times+1
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The craft beer industry in Minnesota has become an important economic and cultural piece of the local hospitality scene. For example, one article said:
“The brewing culture helped build a lot of these communities. … that’s kind of why we like to say it’s the beverage that helped build a state.” KNSI
✅ Why it’s a win
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It gives local breweries & taprooms a unified day to celebrate and attract customers. Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild
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It boosts local economies—both within the craft beer scene and the broader community (bars, restaurants, tourism).
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It fosters awareness of Minnesota’s brewing heritage and strengthens community around local breweries.
