Dogfish Head Celebrates Grateful Dead’s 60th Anniversary with New Juicy Pale Ale and Exclusive Vinyl Album

Dogfish Head and Grateful Dead Unite for a Special Beer and Vinyl Release

As the legendary Grateful Dead marks its 60th anniversary, Dogfish Head Brewery is raising a toast with a brand-new beer release: the Grateful Dead Juicy Pale Ale. This tropical, hop-forward brew is designed for both seasoned Dead Heads and casual fans alike, blending craftsmanship with the spirit of the iconic jam band.

Unlike past collaborations, this release is a permanent addition to Dogfish Head’s lineup, ensuring that fans can enjoy it year-round. The beer comes in eye-catching cans featuring the unmistakable Steal Your Face artwork, a beloved emblem in the Dead Head community.

A Tribute in a Can: The Grateful Dead Juicy Pale Ale

Crafted with a distinctive blend of ingredients, the Grateful Dead Juicy Pale Ale offers a flavorful and refreshing experience. The brew incorporates Kernza—a sustainable grain—alongside oat and honey granola, a nostalgic nod to the hearty breakfasts enjoyed on Shakedown Street. Hopped with El Dorado and Azacca, the beer carries vibrant tropical fruit notes, while its approachable 5.3% ABV and 30 IBU make it easy-drinking for all.

“This beer is designed for Dead Heads of all ages and demographics,” says Dogfish Head Founder & Brewer Sam Calagione. “It’s not just for hop heads who love bitter IPAs—that’s why we call it a ‘Juicy Pale Ale.’”

A Vinyl Companion: Limited-Edition Grateful Dead Live Compilation

To complement the beer, Dogfish Head is also releasing a special vinyl compilation of live Grateful Dead performances. Curated with the same care that goes into brewing, the record features an array of long, improvisational tracks ideal for kicking back with a cold drink. The album will be available exclusively in select record stores beginning on Record Store Day, April 12.

David Lemieux, the Grateful Dead’s Archivist & Legacy Manager, describes the collection as an essential soundtrack for summer beer-sipping sessions. “Grateful Dead music can fit any mood or moment,” he explains. “The beautiful jazz-infused strains of ‘Eyes of the World,’ the slinky blues of ‘Easy Wind,’ and the lilting ballad ‘Standing on the Moon’ make this live compilation perfect for pairing with Dogfish Head’s latest brew.”

A Decade-Long Collaboration Continues

Dogfish Head’s partnership with the Grateful Dead first took shape in 2013 with the launch of American Beauty, an imperial pale ale that saw multiple re-releases over the years. Unlike its predecessors, the new Grateful Dead Juicy Pale Ale is a core beer that will remain available year-round.

“This is a vinyl-only release, so we really leaned into long tracks that match a chill beer-drinking experience,” Calagione adds. “It’s a full-length album, not just an EP with a couple of songs.”

For those eager to experience the new beer and music firsthand, Dogfish Head is also hosting a Grateful Dead-themed celebration in Brooklyn, featuring a live performance by Bushwick’s Dead, a renowned tribute band.

With this latest collaboration, Dogfish Head continues its tradition of blending craft beer with music, ensuring that fans of both the Grateful Dead and great brews can celebrate together.