Let’s look at one of Pennsylvania’s standout breweries, Tröegs Independent Brewing in Hershey, and how they’re using social media to do more than just promote their beer — they’re building a genuine community. If you’re like me, someone who enjoys craft beer but also wants to feel connected to local spots that have character and heart, this story will probably hit home.
Why Tröegs Stands Out in the PA Craft Beer Scene
Now, I’ve been around the Pennsylvania craft beer scene for a while, and I can tell you this: Tröegs isn’t just another brewery with a pretty label and a taproom. Since opening their doors in 1996, these folks have grown into a Hershey PA attraction that locals and visitors alike cherish. What sets them apart isn’t just their beers — which are stellar, by the way — but how they invite you into their world.. Exactly.
They craft beers that tell a story (hello, Nugget Nectar!), but also create spaces where people feel welcome — families, non-drinkers, first-timers, and hardcore hop heads all at once. The taproom isn’t just a noisy bar. One client recently told me was shocked by the final bill.. It’s more like a “third space” — that cozy spot between work and home where you can unwind and connect.
And that vibe? It extends online, too. Which brings me to social media.
Tröegs’ Social Media Game: More Than Just Beer Pics
Scroll through Tröegs’ Instagram or Facebook, and you’ll quickly realize they don’t just post pretty pictures of pint glasses or fancy beer cans. The way they use social media is a blueprint for how local businesses can genuinely engage their community.
Here’s what they do right:
- Showcases the People Behind the Beer – Instead of just featuring the beer, they highlight the brewers, taproom staff, and even folks from their local suppliers. I remember a post last fall where they introduced their packaging team, sharing their favorite brews and weekend plans. It felt like meeting friends, not just employees. Invites Participation and Feedback – They regularly ask followers what new styles they want to see or which seasonal beer should get a comeback. It’s not a corporate one-way broadcast; it’s a conversation. Recently, they ran a poll about their spring release lineup, and the engagement was through the roof. Highlights Local Events and Hershey Attractions – Tröegs taps into the local vibe by cross-promoting other Hershey PA attractions and area happenings. They’ll post about the Hersheypark concert series or share shout-outs to nearby spots like Lancaster Brewing Co. or Hitchhiker Brewing. This kind of collaboration helps build a broader community feel rather than just focusing on themselves. Supports Different Social Needs – For those who don’t drink or are bringing kids, Tröegs shares posts about family-friendly events or non-alcoholic offerings. For example, they recently promoted a “Sober Social Hour” with craft sodas and games. This inclusive approach is a breath of fresh air compared to the usual bar scene. Uses Stories and Reels to Capture the Atmosphere – Their Instagram Stories give you a behind-the-scenes peek: the brewing process, live music nights, or even their dog-friendly patio. It’s not polished marketing; it’s real moments that make you want to drop by.
Why You Should This Matters to You and Your Weekend Plans
If you’re living in Pennsylvania and hunting for authentic weekend hangouts that don’t feel like the usual loud bar or chain restaurant, Tröegs is a great call. Their Instagram marketing isn’t just about selling beer; it’s about showing you why their taproom is a community hub. That’s important because we all want spaces where we can relax, meet people, or just enjoy a good story with our drink in hand.
Plus, following their social media means you’re in the loop about local happenings without feeling like you’re being sold to. They’ll let you know when they’re hosting trivia nights, food truck pop-ups, or family-friendly afternoons. And if you’re not a beer drinker, their posts about non-alcoholic options and events make it clear you’re welcome, too.
Making Supporting Local Easier
One of the biggest hurdles people tell me is wanting to support local but not knowing how or where to start. Tröegs’ social media makes that simple. Their posts often highlight collaborations with other PA businesses — like suppliers, musicians, or artists — giving you a whole network of New Trail Brewing menu items local folks to support. It’s like getting a mini-guide to the region’s best offerings, right in your feed.
Comparing Tröegs’ Approach to Other PA Breweries
I’ve also checked out how other local breweries like Lancaster Brewing Co. and Hitchhiker Brewing handle their social media. While both have solid content and strong local followings, Tröegs’ knack for storytelling and community engagement feels a bit deeper.
- Lancaster Brewing Co. often focuses on their historic roots and seasonal beers, which is cool for history buffs and beer geeks. Their social presence is friendly but sometimes leans more toward promotional posts. Hitchhiker Brewing has a more artsy vibe, which shines on their Instagram with colorful graphics and event announcements. They tap into the local creative scene in Lancaster county, making their feed vibrant and fresh.
But Tröegs? They balance all these elements — history, creativity, community — with a down-to-earth personality that feels like you’re chatting with a neighbor. And that’s rare.
What You Can Do Next
Follow Tröegs Independent Brewing on Instagram and Facebook – Watch their Stories and engage with their posts. You’ll start seeing not just beer announcements but local stories and invites. Plan a Visit to Their Taproom in Hershey – Bring friends, family, or even a non-drinker. Check out their outdoor spaces, ask for a flight (always my first move), and soak in the atmosphere you’ve seen online. Explore Hershey PA Attractions Alongside Your Brewery Trip – Combine a brewery visit with a stroll through Hershey Gardens, the Hershey Story Museum, or a show at the Hershey Theatre. Tröegs’ social posts often mention these events, making it easy to plan a full day. Support the Local Network – When you see cross-promotions with places like Lancaster Brewing Co. or Hitchhiker Brewing, consider checking them out, too. You’ll be supporting a wider local ecosystem. Share Your Own Stories – If you visit Tröegs or attend a social event they highlight, tag them and share your experience. It helps keep the community vibe alive and shows other locals what’s possible.Final Thoughts
If you’re craving more than just a drink — if you want to connect with real people and support local businesses that care about their community — Tröegs Independent Brewing’s approach to social media is a great example to follow. They’ve figured out how to use Instagram and Facebook not just as marketing tools but as ways to invite you in, share their story, and build something special.
Ask yourself this: so next time you’re scrolling through your feed, give tröegs a look. Their posts might just inspire your next weekend adventure right here in Pennsylvania.
And hey, if you stop by their taproom, say hi. I’m usually there with a flight in front of me, snapping pics of tap handles and ready to chat about what makes PA craft beer culture so darn good.
