From garden-grown beets to yearlong melomel, AHA members celebrated Aug. 1 by putting microbes to work.
On Aug. 1, AHA members celebrated Home Fermentation Day by sharing what they had bubbling at home. The results included garden vegetables, fruit-filled mead, homemade staples, and excellent reminders that microbes are tiny but pack a huge punch.
Here are a few projects from the community.
Laco-fermented beets
Andrew Farke of Claremont, California
Horse Thief Brewers Association
Andrew made lacto-fermented beets using beets from his own garden, garlic, and Thai chiles.
Naturally fermented sauerkraut
Carl Saxer of Hilo, Hawaii
Carl kept things classic with naturally fermented sauerkraut made from cabbage and salt. Preferred side? Homemade sausage.
Guava melomel
Chris Gasbarro of Port St. Lucie, Florida
Chris is getting ready to bottle a guava melomel made with guava blossom honey and guava puree. The melomel was aged for a full year.
Home Fermentation Day also brought fiery hot sauce, homemade bread, and a memorable video featuring some rebellious saké.
Browse even more photos, videos, and community creations from Home Fermentation Day.
Keep something bubbling
Aug. 1 may be behind us, but there is no off-season for fermentation. Explore the AHA’s collection of recipes for beer, mead, cider, fermented foods, and other projects waiting to take over a small section of your kitchen.
Don’t forget to tag @homebrewassoc on Facebook or Instagram, or submit your photos online. We’re always eager to admire your latest experiment.
Want more fermentation?
Join us for AHA Happy Hour tomorrow, Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. MT with Charlie Biolo, owner and content creator behind Golden Hive Mead.
Charlie has introduced millions of people to meadmaking through entertaining, beginner-friendly videos that prove fermentation can be approachable, creative, fun, and occasionally a little questionable in the very best way.
AHA Happy Hours are casual, interactive virtual hangouts where you can meet fellow homebrewers, swap stories, ask questions, and talk about the hobby. AHA Happy Hours are open to everyone—no AHA membership is required.
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