The Chelsea Backyard Beer Garden moves to Friday night with more games, more beverages, and more fun.

Chelsea Backyard Beer Garden 2025

The Chelsea Backyard Beer Garden is a sure sign of Fall, yet you’d never guess it from the weather this year. With temperatures in the low 80s and beautiful golden-hued skies, you could have mistaken this afternoon for June. Palmer Common was packed with people playing games, enjoying craft beverages, and soaking up this fabulous weather with friends and family.

New this year was a change from Saturday afternoon to Friday. This probably had something to do with Michigan football. Whatever the cause, I think it should stay on Friday nights. There was definitely an ‘end of the work week’ vibe. You could sense everyone was ready to kick back, play a round of giant pong toss, or throw down a few hands of euchre. As well as moving to Friday night, the Backyard Beer Garden is now a 21+ event.

Craft Beverages

As you’d expect, the emphasis is on craft beverages with Michigan beers from Keweenaw Brewing, stellar wines selected by Withingtons, and Ugly Dog Distillery serving up a bevy of spirited cocktails. What made these selections incredible was not only the selection but the price. Drink tickets were only $5. You’d be hard-pressed to find those prices in any bar or brewery. 

Backyard Entertainment

The Chelsea Backyard Beer Garden once again had a plethora of outdoor games. The usual suspects of cornhole, washer toss, and fowling (bowling with footballs) were on hand. The frat party favorites, such as flip cup and sticks ‘n cups (throwing a frisbee at cups on a stick), were big hits. Lesser played, but much enjoyed, giant snooker ball, giant Jenga, and giant kerplunk. Clearly, giant games are the key.

While the games were a treat, most folks were content to lounge and chat with friends while enjoying a beverage and food. 

Food

Speaking of food, Grateful Crow had heaping sushi bowls and burritos. If you love cheese (and seriously, who doesn’t?), Melted had you covered with amazing grilled sandwiches such as Cubans, Italian Melt, and saucy pizza. For a sweet treat, you couldn’t go wrong with a deep-fried Oreo.

Pictures

Once again, the Chelsea Backyard Beer Garden was the perfect way to gather with friends and relax. Many thanks to all the volunteers who make this event run smoothly. There are a few more photos in our gallery. Take a look, maybe we snagged a picture of you.

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