OMAHA, Neb. — The Omaha German‑American Society, a historic nonprofit that has celebrated German heritage in the city since the late 1800s, unveiled a new on‑site brewery this week. The Brauhaus—German for brewery—allows the society to brew its own German‑rooted beers for community events, including its long‑standing Oktoberfest and the upcoming Keller Night.
From Planning to Pouring
Work on the brewery began roughly two years ago, funded entirely by private donations from society members and local supporters. Brewmaster Steve Thedens explained that the operation uses a one‑barrel system, which produces a single keg per batch. “We typically have three beers on tap at a time and produced about 18 kegs for the grand opening,” Thedens said.
Preserving German Tradition
The society’s mission centers on celebrating German culture and traditions, and the new brewery aligns with that purpose. By crafting German‑style lagers, pilsners and seasonal brews in‑house, the organization can offer authentic flavors at its events while keeping costs low for members and visitors.
Society volunteers plan to rotate the tap lineup throughout the year, highlighting classic styles such as Hefeweizen, Märzen and Oktoberfest‑specific brews. The on‑site production also opens opportunities for educational tastings and brewing workshops, further engaging families and faith‑based groups who value cultural heritage.
Community Impact
Local residents have welcomed the addition, noting that a nonprofit brewery strengthens the society’s role as a gathering place. “Having our own beer makes Keller Night feel even more special,” said longtime member Maria Hernandez. “It’s a family‑friendly way to enjoy a piece of our heritage together.”
The brewery’s launch comes at a time when Omaha’s nonprofit sector is seeking new revenue streams to sustain programming. By keeping the operation nonprofit, any surplus will be reinvested into future cultural events, scholarships and preservation projects.
Looking Ahead
Beyond Oktoberfest, the society intends to use the Brauhaus for a variety of community functions, from holiday celebrations to charitable fundraisers. The on‑site brewery also positions the organization to partner with local schools and churches for educational events that teach brewing basics and the historical significance of German immigration to Nebraska.
With the brewery now operational, the Omaha German‑American Society invites neighbors to experience its first public tasting during Keller Night, scheduled for next Saturday. Visitors can expect a welcoming atmosphere, traditional German music and, of course, freshly brewed beer that reflects the society’s enduring commitment to heritage and community.
Original reporting: KMTV 3 News Now (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
