Before the upcoming annual Irie Jungle 2024 Craft Beer Festival, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Juan Manuel Torres, one of the co-founders of Tripping Animals, and David Lopez, the Director of Sales and Events. Their journey, from brewing in a basement in Venezuela to establishing a thriving brewery in Miami, reflects their passion for craft beer and community building.

Juan Manuel Torres reminisced about their humble beginnings in Venezuela, brewing classic styles like Pale Ale and Blonde Ale in the basement of his house. The journey from those early days to founding Tripping Animals Brewery in Miami in 2018 along partners Daniel Chocron, Ignacio Montenegro, and Iker Elorriaga was marked by determination and a leap of faith. David Lopez echoed this sentiment, describing their decision to invest in a large space as a crazy bet that ultimately paid off, thanks to the trust and support of their families.

Tripping Animals Brewery isn’t just about brewing exceptional beer; it’s about fostering community and creativity. Their commitment to community outreach, arts, and music initiatives reflects their desire to create more than just a brewery—it’s a space where connections are forged and creativity flourishes.

The Irie Jungle 2024 Craft Beer Festival epitomizes Tripping Animals’ ethos of community and creativity. Now in its fifth edition (after a brief hiatus due to the pandemic), the festival promises an immersive experience with over 80 breweries, culinary pop-ups, live music, and more. It’s a celebration of craft beer culture and a testament to Tripping Animals’ dedication to pushing the boundaries of what beer can be.

David Lopez described the festival as Tripping Animals’ “Super Bowl,” a culmination of their efforts to create an unforgettable experience for attendees. From live music performances by artists like Johnny Dread and DJ Kumi to unlimited pours of beer, wine, and coffee, the festival offers something for everyone.

Beyond the festival, Tripping Animals has plans for further growth and expansion. Juan Manuel Torres revealed their intention to increase production, open more accounts, and possibly even establish a second location in Miami. Additionally, they’re launching Trip Kitchen, a new venture managed by Tripping Animals, which will debut at the Irie Jungle festival.

Tripping Animals’ success amidst a challenging craft beer landscape speaks volumes about their commitment to quality, creativity, and community. As they continue to grow and innovate, one thing remains clear: Tripping Animals Brewery is more than just a brewery; it’s a cultural hub, a home away from home for beer enthusiasts and creatives alike.

Join Tripping Animals Brewery on April 20th for the Irie Jungle 2024 Craft Beer Festival and experience the magic for yourself. Discover new flavors, connect with fellow beer lovers, and embark on a journey through the vibrant world of Tripping Animals. Cheers to community, creativity, and great beer!