Evil Genius Beer Company gets in the ‘Harry Potter’ spirit(s)

Philadelphia is turning into a hub for all things ‘Harry Potter’ and Hogwarts this month. The Franklin Institute will soon be opening the world premiere of ‘Harry Potter: The Exhibition’, and to celebrate local brewery Evil Genius Beer Company has decided to unveil a special new exclusive beer, plus turn out new cocktails, a running club, a drag brunch and even a block party. 

Sticking in tune with its theme of very serious beers with very silly names, the new magically-inspired brew titled “Spoiler Alert: It’s LeviOSa, not LevioSA!” casts a spell as a 6% ABV beverage that pays homage to the ever-famous  “butterbeer.” This new concoction is described as a vanilla caramel blonde ale boasting toasted and caramelized malts, along with natural caramel and vanilla flavors.

Although in the world of Harry Potter, all the cool kids “solemnly swear they are up to no good,” this brew actually does the opposite. While available, a portion of the proceeds will go to benefit Trans Lifeline, an organization that provides emotional and financial support for Trans people.

“Spoiler Alert” is not the only new potion being whipped up at Evil Genius however, there are also two new cocktails to try. Throwing Snowballs at Voldemort (a butterbeer slushie with Stateside Vodka) and Defrosting Broomsticks (a butterbeer-inspired martini) will also be available at the Fishtown-based brewing company, tasting room and beer garden. 

Another tradition at this unique venue is a 0.5k…and no some numbers did not magically disappear. Just once around the block is all you need for this charity event that comes out to be 0.31 miles. According to a release, tickets for the Hogwarts Running Club/Harry Potter 0.5k are $30 and include a swag bag with a free pint and Evil Genius branded goodies like a water bottle, bottle opener and more. A portion of the proceeds from this event will support the peer support and crisis hotline Trans Lifeline as well. With no actual winner for this event, those participating are welcome to run, jog or walk at their own pace. 

The charity event takes place on Saturday, March 12 at 12:30 p.m. 

After the run, Evil Genius Beer Company will be throwing down with a block party (March 12 from 1 to 6 p.m.) This particular event is free to attend, and while there, Philadelphians can look for themed photo opps, food and drink vendors and other magical surprises. Anyone under 21 or without identification, must be accompanied by their parent or guardian over 21, and dogs are also welcome. 

Lastly to round up their magical agenda for this year, the Beer Company will also throw two “Gryffindor In The Streets, Slytherin In The Sheets” Harry Potter Drag Brunches. Some of the city’s most notable drag queens will be participating on March 20 (noon – 2 p.m.) and March 27 (noon – 2 p.m.). Doors open at 11:30 a.m. Those interested should note, this event is indoors and proof of vaccination is required per city guidelines.

For more, visit evilgeniusbeer.com and @evilgeniusbeer on social.