MONSTER MASH NIGHT MARKET

Halloween Comes Early to Tampa's Craft Beer Scene

Hop State Brewing transforms into a spooky marketplace on Friday, October 9th, 2026, hosting the Monster Mash Night Market from 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM. This Halloween-themed gathering combines local vendors, seasonal brews, and costume-ready atmosphere at the Benjamin Road brewery. The night market format brings that festival energy to a manageable three-and-a-half-hour window, perfect for those who want Halloween fun without committing to an all-night affair.

What to Expect:
The brewery's outdoor space becomes vendor central, with local makers and food trucks setting up alongside Hop State's regular tap lineup. October in Tampa means comfortable evening temperatures, so the 6:00 PM start catches the golden hour before settling into pleasant night-market weather. Expect costumes—this crowd takes the Monster Mash theme seriously—and a mix of craft beer enthusiasts and families looking for all-ages Halloween entertainment.

Insider Tips:
- Arrive closer to 6:00 PM for the best vendor selection before popular items sell out
- Bring cash for vendors who may not have card readers, though the brewery accepts cards
- The brewery's parking lot fills quickly, so carpooling or rideshare saves hassle
- Costumes aren't required but add to the experience—most attendees dress up at least partially
- Sample the seasonal or limited-release brews Hop State typically features for special events
- Check the brewery's social channels the day before for any vendor lineup updates or special announcements

Getting There:
Hop State Brewing sits on Benjamin Road in the Town 'n' Country area, accessible from Waters Avenue or Anderson Road. The brewery provides its own parking lot, which handles most of the crowd but fills as the event progresses. Street parking along Benjamin Road offers overflow options within easy walking distance. Public transit connects through several bus stops along Anderson Road, with the closest platform at Anderson Road and Crenshaw Street about a 10-minute walk from the brewery. Waters Avenue serves as the main commercial corridor in the area, running east-west and connecting to major north-south routes like Dale Mabry Highway.

Local Scene:
The Benjamin Road area leans heavily toward chain dining, but a few spots stand out for pre-event meals. Lolis Mexican Cravings sits less than a mile away on Benjamin Road, offering authentic Mexican fare that pairs well with the brewery destination ahead. Mission BBQ on Waters Avenue provides hearty barbecue about 15 minutes before first pitch—or in this case, first vendor booth. Dark Door Spirits on Anderson Road offers a different drinking experience for those wanting to extend the evening after the market wraps at 9:30. The Waters Avenue corridor features familiar options like Panera Bread and Chick-fil-A for those seeking quick, reliable meals before heading to the brewery. Post-event, the area quiets down quickly, making Hop State the main attraction for the evening rather than part of a larger bar crawl.