Athletic Brewing and the Vans Warped Tour are teaming up on a limited non-alcoholic beer called Side Stage. The release marks the tour’s 30th anniversary and its return after a six-year break. Athletic will also serve as the official non-alcoholic beer at the Orlando stop on November 15–16. Side Stage is a bright, hoppy pale. Athletic brewed it with orange peel for a citrus twist. Expect light body, floral aromas, and clean bitterness. The profile aims for easy drinking at shows, at home, or anywhere alcohol doesn’t fit. From the press release:
“Our collaboration with the Vans Warped Tour is another exciting step in bringing Athletic to the heart of live music and celebrating moments of enjoyment,ˮ said Andrew Katz, Chief Marketing Officer of Athletic Brewing Company. “Warped has long been a cultural touchstone for millions of fans — a celebration of independence, community, and the unapologetic energy that defined a generation. Whether youʼre going hard in the pit or headbanging at a house party, Side Stage delivers full flavor and zero hangover.ˮ
Brew specs:
- Style: Hoppy pale
- ABV: < 0.5%
- Calories: 60 per 12 oz
- Carbs: 14 g
- Ingredients: Water, malted barley, hops, orange peel, wheat, yeast
- Format: 12-oz cans
When and where to get it
Athletic will sell Side Stage at athleticbrewing.com starting November 5, 2025. The beer will also pour at the Vans Warped Tour stop in Orlando on November 15-16 (this week). Supply is limited. Once it’s gone, it’s gone. Warped Tour built its reputation as a discovery engine for emerging artists. It spanned punk, rock, metal, hip hop, pop, and more from 1995 to 2019. The 30th anniversary events lean into that legacy. Adding an NA option aligns with a broader push for inclusive choices at festivals and venues.
Why Athletic is leaning into live music
Athletic has made live events a core growth channel. Non-alcoholic beer fits concert settings where many fans want to pace their night. It also supports artists, crew, and staff who may prefer to avoid alcohol while working. Side Stage extends that strategy with a brand fans recognize. In early 2025, Athletic inked a multi-year deal with Live Nation. Its NA beers now reach more than 100 concert venues across the United States. Venues include Brooklyn Paramount, Shoreline Amphitheatre, and The Gorge Amphitheatre. The partnership also covers four major festivals: Bonnaroo, BottleRock Napa Valley, Festival La Onda, and Two Step Inn.
Quick take for brewery pros
- Limited collabs can unlock placement at marquee events.
- NA styles provide margin and flexibility without alcohol service hurdles.
- Music partnerships expand brand reach beyond typical distribution hubs.
- Tie availability to specific dates and channels to drive urgency.
Side Stage brings a fresh NA pale to a storied music brand’s return. The drop fits Athletic’s push into concerts and festivals. Pair it with the Live Nation footprint, and you have a clear signal: NA beer belongs at the show.
