Brooklyn SeltzerFest Returns, Celebrating a Fizzy Piece of New York History
Brooklyn, NY – As spring approaches, a unique celebration of a beloved beverage is set to bubble up in New York City. The second annual Brooklyn SeltzerFest will take place on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at Industry City in Brooklyn, offering attendees a chance to explore the rich history and enduring appeal of seltzer. The festival, an extension of the Brooklyn Seltzer Museum, promises a day filled with samples, competitions and a nostalgic look at a drink deeply intertwined with the cultural fabric of the region.
More than just carbonated water, seltzer holds a special place in the hearts – and glasses – of many New Yorkers, particularly within the Jewish community, where it has long been affectionately dubbed “Jewish champagne.” The Brooklyn SeltzerFest aims to honor this legacy, showcasing the drink’s evolution from a staple delivered by local seltzer men to a modern-day beverage experiencing a resurgence in popularity. The event builds on the success of its inaugural run in 2025, expanding to a larger venue to accommodate growing interest.
A Legacy of Fizz: The Brooklyn Seltzer Museum and its Roots
The heart of the festival lies with the Brooklyn Seltzer Museum, a non-profit cultural institution dedicated to preserving the history of seltzer water. Located in Cypress Hills, the museum is uniquely situated within the oldest continuously operating seltzer factory in New York City, a fourth-generation family business. Brooklyn Seltzer Boys, the family behind the museum, have been keeping the craft of seltzer-making alive for over a century. The museum’s co-founder and president, Alex Gomberg, emphasizes the importance of sharing this legacy with the community.
The museum’s origins are deeply rooted in the history of immigrant communities in New York City. As noted by the Jewish Telegraphic Agency, seltzer became particularly important to Eastern European Jews who began making, delivering, and selling it in the early 1900s, largely on the Lower East Side. This history is a key component of the festival’s celebration, recognizing seltzer’s role as more than just a beverage, but as a cultural touchstone.
What to Expect at SeltzerFest 2026
This year’s Brooklyn SeltzerFest will feature a diverse range of activities for attendees of all ages. Visitors can sample seltzer from the museum’s historic works alongside offerings from national brands like Topo Chico. A “people’s choice” award will recognize the best-tasting seltzer, while the “National Egg Cream Invitational” promises a competitive showcase of this classic Brooklyn treat. The competition, sponsored by Fox’s U-Bet Chocolate Syrup – considered by many to be the authentic ingredient for a proper egg cream – will be emceed by Israeli chef Ari Miller and judged by a panel including actor and director Benny Safdie. The Jewish Telegraphic Agency reported on the inaugural event’s success with the Egg Cream Invitational.
Beyond the tastings and competitions, SeltzerFest will also feature live performances from Israeli American rapper Kosha Dillz, comedian Liz Glazer, and TikToker Anna Roisman. Attendees will also have the opportunity to endeavor AriZona Beverages’ Chocolate Egg Cream soda in a can, a modern take on a classic flavor combination. Museum Executive Director Barry Joseph noted the significance of the packaging itself, highlighting its connection to New York City and the soda fountain tradition.
The Enduring Appeal of Seltzer and its Cultural Significance
The resurgence of seltzer’s popularity in recent years speaks to a broader trend of consumers seeking healthier and more refreshing beverage options. But, its appeal extends beyond mere hydration. As Barry Joseph explains, “Carbonated water by itself is just two things, right, just water and CO2 combined,” but as an iconic object, it carries significant cultural meaning. This meaning is particularly strong in New York City, where seltzer has been a part of the landscape for generations.
The Brooklyn Seltzer Museum actively works to preserve and promote this cultural heritage. The museum’s work extends beyond simply showcasing historical artifacts; it aims to explore seltzer as a beverage, a cultural practice, and even a source of artistic inspiration. The SeltzerFest is a direct extension of this mission, providing a platform for celebrating the drink’s past, present, and future.
Tickets for Brooklyn SeltzerFest 2026 are available for purchase online. Admission is $10 for children and $25 for adults. Tickets can be purchased through FareHarbor.
Key Takeaways
- Brooklyn SeltzerFest returns on March 15, 2026, at Industry City.
- The festival celebrates the history and cultural significance of seltzer, particularly its connection to New York City and Jewish communities.
- Attendees can enjoy seltzer tastings, the National Egg Cream Invitational, and live performances.
- The event is organized by the Brooklyn Seltzer Museum, located in the oldest continuously operating seltzer factory in New York City.
The Brooklyn SeltzerFest promises a unique and refreshing experience for attendees, offering a bubbly tribute to a drink that has been a part of New York City’s identity for over a century. The event organizers hope attendees will leave with a newfound appreciation for seltzer and a “buzz” that carries them through the year. Further details and updates regarding the festival can be found on the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce website.
The Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a Member Spotlight event at Industry City on March 15, 2026, coinciding with the SeltzerFest. Stay tuned for further announcements regarding potential speakers and additional festival details in the coming weeks.
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