Tibbs Brewing: From Homebrew Kit to Brewhouse

Tibbs Brewing Company, situated in the center of downtown Kalamazoo, has become known for brewing big, flavorful beers, with offerings ranging from IPAs and pales to double-digit ABV brews like their Hell-Jen Belgian Tripel and Evil as Cin Russian Imperial Stout. The brewery celebrated its second anniversary in December by increasing both its space and brewing capacity — but it might not have ever existed if it wasn’t for a family tradition and the ubiquitous home brewing kit.

“I started brewing, it was probably about eight years ago now,” said Head Brewer Kevin Tibbs.

“My wife has a rather large family, so one year for Christmas they decided that it was getting a little too pricey buying for everybody and their significant others.”

The family transitioned from buying everyone gifts to making things to share. While others were bringing cookies and brownies, Tibbs bought a Mr. Beer kit and made some “gut-rot beer.”

“I went all out and bought a bunch more kits before I’d even tried the

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