Bell’s Oberon is released Monday

Bell’s Brewery brings back its beloved seasonal ale Oberon Monday.

Bars and restaurants around Metro Detroit – and wherever Bell’s is distributed – will be celebrating not just the end of winter, but the 2017 release of the wheat ale with parties and events Monday.

As usual, Ashley’s in Ann Arbor is going all out with a midnight release of Oberon at 12:01 a.m. Monday (Sunday night). A party precedes the tapping starting at 8 p.m. Costumes are encouraged and the celebration’s highlight is the crowning of the 2017 Oberon King and Queen. The winners will be rewarded with access to the first pints at midnight.

Besides Oberon at midnight, Ashley’s (338 S. State in Ann Arbor) will have Bell’s Hopslam, Kal-Haven, Amber, Two-Hearted and Lager on tap all night.

Other local spots releasing Oberon at exactly 12:01 a.m. Monday include One-Eyed Betty’s (175 W. Troy in Ferndale) and Sports Den (133 W. Mina in Northville).

On Monday it’s widely available at many bars and restaurants that are craft beer savvy including Slow’s Bar-BQ in Corktown, Terry’s Terrace in Harrison Township and Boat Works in St. Clair Shores.

Ye Olde Saloon in Royal Oak will host a bash at 6 p.m. Thursday with Oberon and other Bell’s beers, including Traverse City Barrel Aged 355 East Stout.

Visit bellsbeer.com/events for more parties.

mbaetens@detroitnews.com

(313) 222-2402

Twitter: @melodybaetens