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Your Guide to the 2026 STC Six Belgian Brewery Competition

  • 23 hours ago
  • 4 min read

For the 5th year of the annual STC Six, the breweries are going to be shining a light on the rich Belgian history we have here in St. Charles. To honor this, participating breweries will take on the challenge of crafting unique Belgian-style beers and going head-to-head in a brewing competition. To help determine this, we are going to need your help to vote for your favorite. $1 from every pint sold will go to support the St. Charles History Museum and their mission to collect, preserve, and present St. Charles' history.


Missed the draft?

Not to worry! Click below to watch Nick, Nate, and Mayor Clint Hull talk to the breweries and draft their styles!



Belgian History in St. Charles

Photos Courtesy of the St. Charles History Museum

St. Charles’s Belgian community began in the late 19th century when Moline Malleable Iron Company sponsored Belgian immigrants to work at its rebuilt facility in St. Charles. Their arrival led to the creation of “Belgian Town,” a close-knit neighborhood of more than 100 residents. The community blended Belgian traditions, including pigeon racing and rolle bolle, with American customs such as football.


Coming August 1st - The St. Charles History Museum will open a temporary exhibit focused on St. Charles' Belgian history. The exhibit will explore the people, traditions, and impact of the city's Belgian community.



Pick Your Favorite

Throughout the month of August, individuals are encouraged to visit each of the six breweries to try the five different styles of beer. You'll then be able to vote for your favorite Belgian Beer by visiting our website using the button below. The winning brewery will be announced at hte end of Pollyanna Brewing & Distilling's Blues and Brews Festival on August 29.



Complete Your Passport


Individuals can pick up an STC Six Passport at the St. Charles History Museum and participating St. Charles breweries beginning August 1. Those who visit all six breweries throughout the month of August and a collect a stamp at each location will receive a limited-edition koozie, available for pickup at the St. Charles History Museum.



Which St. Charles Summer Activity is Your Favorite?

  • Paddlewheel Riverboat

  • Kayaking

  • Cycling

  • Outdoor Dining



The Teams


93 Octane Brewery - Golden Strong

Photo 1 Courtesy of Brigette Burgman Photography. Photo 2 Courtesy of 93 Octane Brewery

This locally owned craft brewery features a rotating lineup of fresh, small-batch craft beers including IPAs, lagers, sours, hard seltzers, and more. Frequently, you can join 93 Octane Brewery for live music, game nights, and special events. Make sure to stop by next door to grab a tasty bite from Urban Counter!



Alter Brewing + Kitchen - Dubbel

Photo 1 Courtesy of Nicole Gail Photography. Photo 2 Courtesy of Alter Brewing + Kitchen

Alter Brewing + Kitchen offers fantastic riverfront views from their outdoor patio at their tap room in St. Charles. You can enjoy a variety of rotating brews, along with delicious fare from their kitchen. Located right on the 1st Street Plaza, this is one stop that you do not want to miss out on.




Broken Brix Homebrew Shop and Brother Chimp Brewing - Witbier

Photos Courtesy of Brigette Burgman Photography

Calling St. Charles home for over 25 years, Broken Brix is a Winery/Cidery, Homebrew Supply Store, Tasting Room, and a Bottle Shop. This local staple also features 10 drafts showcasing local and world class craft beers and ciders. This is a great stop to grab a drink, and even pick up the materials to start brewing yourself!


Location: 225 W. Main St.



The most recent brewery to join the STC Six, Brother Chimp Brewing has quickly become a St. Charles favorite in St. Charles when they opened their taproom in 2024. They proudly brew small-batch, hand-crafted beer rooted in tradition, and offer a well-rounded selection of ciders, wines, and seltzers, too.




Pollyanna Brewing & Distilling - Fruited Belgian Strong Ale

Situated alongside the beautiful Fox River, Pollyanna Brewing & Distilling offers craft brews, spirits, and cocktails inside their St. Charles taproom. You can enjoy your brew inside their space known for hosting frequent live music performances, or you can enjoy it on their fantastic patio while soaking up the sunlight.




Riverlands Brewing Company - Saison

Photos Courtesy of Riverlands Brewing

Riverlands Brewing's spacious, family-friendly taproom has sixteen drinks of draft, and is a perfect spot to enjoy a craft brew just west of downtown. Their award-winning patio is known to host frequent live music, popups, and food trucks, making this a fantastic destination for any craft beer lover.





While you're getting each of the stamps at the breweries for the STC Six, be sure to download the FREE Travel St. Charles App and check in for the STC Brew Tour! Upon completion, you can pick up a limited-edition STC Brew Tour t-shirt at the St. Charles Municipal Building. Click above to learn more.

 
 
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