Introduction

Game day in Kansas City is more than just a sporting event—it’s a tradition. Whether you’re tailgating at Arrowhead, hosting friends at home, or joining a watch party, the right beer pack sets the perfect tone for the whole experience. But building the perfect lineup takes more than grabbing a random six-pack. It’s about variety, crowd-pleasers, and adding a few surprises that make you the MVP of the party.

At Pina Wine & Spirits, we know our Kansas City customers love beer that fits the occasion. From local craft favorites to easy-drinking perfect classics, we’ve put together this guide to help you build a beer pack that wins every time.

Step 1: Start with Local Flavor

No Kansas City game day pack is complete without showing some hometown pride. Local breweries bring flavor, personality, and community spirit into every sip. Consider including:

  • Boulevard Brewing Co. – Try Boulevard Wheat or Space Camper IPA for a local classic.
  • KC Bier Co. – Known for authentic German-style beers, perfect for tailgates.
  • Martin City Brewing – A great choice for IPA and stout lovers.

 

Supporting local breweries not only makes your pack stand out but also gives fans a taste of Kansas City’s craft beer scene.

Step 2: Include a Crowd-Pleasing Lager

Every pack needs a beer that’s easy to drink and appeals to everyone. A crisp, refreshing, and perfect lager or pilsner is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. They’re light, smooth, and pair well with all your favorite game day foods—nachos, wings, pizza, and barbecue.

Great picks include:

  • Michelob Ultra or Coors Light for a light option
  • Pabst Blue Ribbon for a nostalgic touch
  • Local craft lagers for something unique

Step 3: Add a Bold IPA for the Hop Lovers

IPAs are among the most popular craft styles in Kansas City, and your pack should include one for the hop heads in the group. Go for something balanced—juicy and flavorful without being overwhelming.

 

These beers pair perfectly with spicy buffalo wings or jalapeño poppers, cutting through the heat with citrus and piney notes.

Step 4: Don’t Forget Something Dark

While light and hoppy beers are common at parties, a darker beer adds variety and depth. Stouts and porters are excellent for sipping during colder fall and winter game days.

  • Boulevard’s Steep Drop Nitro Cold Brew Milk Stout
  • Guinness Draught for a global classic
  • Left Hand Milk Stout for smooth, creamy richness

 

Dark beers pair especially well with barbecue brisket or smoked sausages—both Kansas City staples.

Step 5: Toss in a Seasonal or Limited Release

Adding a seasonal or limited-edition beer makes your pack feel special. Depending on the season, try:

  • Pumpkin Ale or Oktoberfest beer for fall football
  • Crisp Hard Seltzer or Wheat Ale for early-season warm weather
  • Winter Ales with cinnamon and nutmeg for holiday games

 

Your friends will appreciate the creativity, and it’s a great way to showcase Kansas City’s dynamic beer options.

Step 6: Add a Non-Alcoholic Option

Not everyone drinks alcohol, and including a non-alcoholic option ensures everyone feels included. Many breweries now produce high-quality non-alcoholic beers that taste just like the real thing.

Consider:

  • Athletic Brewing Co. Upside Dawn
  • Heineken 0.0
  • Local soda or craft root beer for kids and designated drivers

Step 7: Build Around Food Pairings

The beauty of a beer pack is how well it plays with food. Kansas City is known for barbecue, so why not design your pack with pairings in mind?

  • Pulled Pork Sandwiches + Wheat Beer – Light, citrusy flavors balance smoky pork.
  • Burnt Ends + IPA – Hoppy bitterness cuts through rich, caramelized meat.
  • Brisket + Stout – Roasted malt enhances beefy flavors.
  • Hot Dogs + Lager – A classic pairing that never fails.

 

By aligning your beer selection with food, you elevate the entire game day experience.

Step 8: Pack Smart for Convenience

Once you’ve picked your lineup, presentation matters. Use a sturdy cooler or branded beer caddy to keep drinks cold and organized. Layer ice, and keep darker or seasonal beers toward the bottom since they’ll be enjoyed later in the game.

For larger gatherings, mix singles into variety packs so everyone can try something new. If you’re tailgating, don’t forget essentials like a bottle opener, cups, and koozies.

Step 9: Keep Budget in Mind

The perfect beer pack doesn’t need to break the bank. At Pina Wine & Spirits, we offer competitive pricing on domestic staples and seasonal deals on craft beer. You can mix-and-match singles to create a custom six-pack, or grab larger packs for tailgates with big crowds.

Pro tip: Buy a mix of premium craft beers and budget-friendly lagers to balance variety and affordability.

Step 10: Add a Signature Touch

Make your game day pack stand out with a signature touch:

  • Add team-colored koozies (red for the Chiefs!).
  • Write out a short “beer menu” so guests know what’s inside.
  • Throw in a bottle of hot sauce or BBQ rub from a local brand for fun extras.

 

These small details turn a good pack into a memorable one.

Conclusion

Building the perfect game day beer pack is about balance, variety, and Kansas City pride. With local craft favorites, easy-drinking lagers, bold IPAs, rich stouts, and seasonal surprises, you’ll have something for everyone. Don’t forget to think about food pairings, convenience, and a touch of creativity to make your pack unforgettable.

At Pina Wine & Spirits, we’re here to help you every step of the way. From mix-and-match singles to expert staff recommendations, you’ll find everything you need to become the game day hero. Stop by one of our Kansas City locations today and build your ultimate beer pack before kickoff.

Cheers to cold beer, great friends, and game day victories! 

Accessibility Tools
hide