Can’t make it to the in-person ticket lines on May 3rd? Don’t worry—your festival season isn’t over yet. 🥨🍻

In this episode, Greg sits down with Doug Randall, Chairman of the Great Taste of the Midwest, to discuss exactly how to snag tickets if you’re missing the big in-person sale. We’re looking ahead to the Monday, May 4th lottery launch and exploring the best way to experience the fest: Volunteering.

The Great Taste is an all-volunteer-run powerhouse, and Doug breaks down how you can get involved behind the scenes while securing your spot at Olin Park.

🗓️ Upcoming Key Dates:
In-Person Sales: Sunday, May 3rd (Madison Area)

Lottery Entries Open: Monday, May 4th, 2026

Lottery Deadline: Friday, May 8th, 2026

The Great Taste: Saturday, August 8th, 2026

📍 What We’re Discussing:
The 2026 Lottery: How to enter correctly and what you need to know about the selection process.

Be a Volunteer: Why the Madison Homebrewers and Tasters Guild (MHTG) needs you and how volunteering guarantees you a unique festival experience.

Post-Sale Safety: Doug’s advice on how to secure tickets safely after the initial rush and how to avoid the scammers.

The Chairman's Outlook: What Doug is most excited about for this year’s festival.

🔗 Official Links:
Enter the Lottery Here: lottery.greattaste.org

Sign Up to Volunteer: greattaste.org/volunteer

General Info: greattaste.org

Are you planning to enter the lottery or join the volunteer crew this year? Drop a comment below and let us know!

#GreatTasteOfTheMidwest #GTMW2026 #CraftBeer #MadisonWI #BeerFestival #MHTG #BBRGreg