The Brewery Collectibles Club of America is coming to the Albuquerque Convention Center this weekend for its 49th annual CANvention. The general public is welcome to join the registered members in Exhibition Hall 3 this Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

It only costs $10 to take a look at this massive collection of beer history from around the country, though there is a $5 off coupon available on Craigslist.

The entire CANvention takes place over a span of four days, with more than 500 BCCA members on hand to showcase their collections. The purpose of the non-profit BCCA “is to inform and educate its members about the history of the brewing industry and beer-related collectibles and the cultural roles many have played,” per the official press release.

Albuquerque’s Roadrunner Chapter is the host, and yours truly will also be on hand for a 2 p.m. seminar on Saturday to talk about Albuquerque’s beer history. (Yes, shameless plug time!) I will have copies of my book, Albuquerque Beer: Duke City History on Tap, for sale for $20 cash, for anyone interested. The seminar will be held in the Taos Room, plus there will also be a seminar hosted by Rick Chavez about the history of Route 66 at 1 p.m.

The convention will feature more than just old-school beer cans. Members also collect light-up signs, coasters, tap handles, trays, and other beer-related items that they refer to as “breweriana.”

If you ever wanted to learn more about beer history from the folks who know it best, head on down this Saturday and take a look around.

Cheers!

— Stoutmeister