What Size Keg is Right for Your Party: A Guide to Beer Keg Sizes
Planning a party or event can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to choosing the right amount of beer. With so many keg sizes available, it can be challenging to know how much to order. In this guide, we’ll help you choose the perfect beer keg size for your party.
Understanding Beer Keg Sizes
Before we dive into choosing the perfect beer keg size, let’s first understand the different types of kegs available.
1. Half Barrel Kegs
Half barrel kegs are the most common type of keg, often used by bars and restaurants. These kegs contain 15.5 gallons, or 165 12-ounce servings of beer. They weigh around 160 pounds when full and are about 23 inches tall.
2. Quarter Barrel Kegs
Quarter barrel kegs, also known as pony kegs, hold half the amount of a half barrel keg, or 7.75 gallons. They are commonly used for smaller events and parties, and are often easier to handle than larger kegs, weighing around 87 pounds when full.
3. Sixth Barrel Kegs
Sixth barrel kegs, also known as slim quarter kegs, hold around 5.16 gallons, or 55 12-ounce servings. These kegs are perfect for smaller gatherings or events with limited space, and are often used for homebrewed beer.
4. Cornelius Kegs
Cornelius kegs, also known as Corny kegs, are typically used for homebrewing, but can be a great option for smaller events. These kegs hold around 5 gallons of beer and are the smallest type of keg available.
Choosing the Right Keg Size for Your Party
Now that we know the different types of beer kegs available, how do we know which size is right for our party? Here are some things to consider:
1. Number of Guests
The first thing to consider is the number of guests attending your party. As a general rule, plan for each guest to consume two 12-ounce servings of beer per hour. Use this formula to determine the number of kegs you’ll need:
(Number of guests x hours of party) / 165 (servings per keg)
For example, if you’re expecting 50 guests for a 4 hour party, you would need:
(50 x 4) / 165 = 1.21 kegs
In this case, you could round up to 1.5 kegs, depending on how much beer you want to have on hand.
2. Type of Party
The type of party you’re having can also influence the keg size you choose. If you’re having a large party with a lot of guests, a half barrel keg may be the best choice. On the other hand, if you’re having a small gathering, a quarter barrel keg or sixth barrel keg may be more appropriate.
3. Variety of Beers
If you want to offer a variety of beers, consider ordering multiple smaller kegs instead of one large keg. This will allow your guests to sample different types of beer and is a great way to cater to a variety of tastes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long will a keg of beer last?
This depends on the size of the keg and the number of guests at your party. As a general rule, plan on each guest consuming two 12-ounce servings of beer per hour. A half barrel keg will last around 165 servings, while a quarter barrel keg will last around 82 servings.
2. How do I tap a keg of beer?
To tap a keg of beer, first make sure it is chilled to the appropriate temperature (around 38 degrees Fahrenheit). Remove the protective cover from the top of the keg and remove the cap from the tap. Insert the tap into the hole on top of the keg and turn clockwise to lock it in place. Pull the lever on the tap to dispense beer.
3. How do I store a keg of beer?
Kegs of beer should be stored in a cool, dry place. Ideally, they should be stored at a temperature of around 38 degrees Fahrenheit. Once tapped, the keg should be consumed within a few days to ensure the beer stays fresh.
Conclusion
Choosing the right keg size for your party can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. By considering the number of guests, type of party, and variety of beers you want to offer, you can easily determine the perfect keg size for your party. Remember to keep your keg chilled and store it in a cool, dry place, and your guests are sure to enjoy cold, refreshing beer all night long.