Editor's Pick

Sidetracked Brewery in Morganton hosts IFPA-sanctioned pinball tournaments on Mondays, attracting players from afar for competitive play and a shared love of pinball.

The Foothills Fermentation Club, formed in the summer of 2022, gathers monthly at Sidetracked Brewery in Morganton to share recipes, food, and drink. With over 50 years of collective brewing experience, members explore various fermented products beyond beer, including sauerkraut, wine, mead, and more. The club welcomes anyone interested in fermentation, whether a seasoned brewer or a beginner, to join their hobby group that emphasizes experimentation and camaraderie.

Sidetracked Brewery is celebrating its 7th birthday with a special event on June 22 at their location in Morganton, offering giveaways and a grand prize of a $100 party card for guests. In addition to a surprise birthday release, the brewery features 16 house-made beers, including unique flavors like dragon fruit and Captain Crunch. Owner Joseph Ackerman recounts how he transitioned from a brewer to a partner before eventually becoming the sole owner with his wife, making them the full owners of Sidetracked Brewery.