From Britney to Blink-182: Lakeshore brewery throwing a free 90s concert for its birthday weekend

GRAND HAVEN, MI -- Odd Side Ales has become a mainstay of Grand Haven’s downtown, growing from a mirco-brewery to the beach town’s most popular watering hole.

Odd Side Ales is celebrating 15 years in business and inviting the public to a free, birthday bash this weekend.

The brewery is hosting two free concerts featuring 90s cover bands on Friday, March 14 and Saturday, March 15.

The choice to go full 90s was an obvious one as the era has become “the new classic rock,” event specialist and bartender, Nick Cadena said.

“It’s people our age that have helped make this business what it is, make this industry successful and make Grand Rapids beer scene one of best in the world,” Cadena said.

Odd Side Ales Coronavirus — General Manager John Motz at Odd Side Ales in Grand Haven is busy filling curbside orders, which can be made online. The core brands are Citra Pale Ale, Bean Flicker Blonde, and the Dank Juice series. Motz has worked at the brewery for 3 1/2 years.John Motz

Odd Side’s 10th anniversary party was postponed in 2020 due to pandemic shutdown policies.

This time around, the brewery is ready to give its customers what they want − what they really, really want.

“It’s a way to give back to the people of that age group who this [music] is what they grew up on. They like to drink their favorite beer and listen to their favorite music,” Cadena said.

The Chicago-based Fool House is bringing their MTV Video Music Award-inspired tour with Britney Spears, Spice Girls, NSYNC, Backstreet Boys, Eminem, Destiny’s Child and more on the setlist.

Show up in style to the red carpet starting 8 p.m. Friday. Guests are encouraged to dress up for the photo-opt, complete with a Moon Man trophy. Expect 90s trivia and awards for best dressed.

On Saturday, it’s all local love with headliner Dank Hill and opening act EASU.

Dank Hill’s alternative pop rock group is made up of three current and former Odd Side employees − including Cadena as frontman − and one barfly, trivia regular.

Locals will recognize the group from Grand Haven’s Coast Guard Festival lineup in years past.

Their band name is a mixed tribute to local hiking spot Dewey Hill, the dank hops of Odd Side and, a little 90s love for King of the Hill.

Dank Hill will be rocking out hits from Green Day, Weezer, Blink-182, Fall Out Boy and plenty of other Warped Tour-era favorites.

Behind the bar, guests can try the 15th Anniversary Stout, which has notes of marshmallow, blackberries and vanilla.

Die-hard fans can buy a three-liter double magnum bottle − they’re selling for $100 each while supplies last.

Back on the menu is award-winning imperial porter, Bourbon Maple Wishes and Pecan Dreams. Other barrel-aged brews include previous anniversary specials.

Hard seltzer drinkers can indulge in a 90s juice box-inspired flavors on tap: Blue Lagoon, POG and Rockin' Red.

The free event will likely be standing room only so get to the taproom early, located at 41 Washington Ave, Grand Haven.