Media Center
Crafting Beer. Building Community. Revitalizing Downtown.
From transforming a vacant historic hardware building into one of Kansas' most unique destinations to bringing together 28 local families to invest in downtown Junction City, Highwind Brewing Co. is more than a brewery—it's a story of entrepreneurship, collaboration, and community investment.
Our team is available for interviews, speaking engagements, podcasts, media features, and industry conversations covering craft brewing, small business, downtown revitalization, and the power of local partnerships.
Our Story
Highwind Brewing Co. began with a vision to create more than a brewery. We set out to build a destination that would bring people together, celebrate locally crafted beer, and become a catalyst for downtown Junction City.
That vision quickly grew into something much larger. Twenty-eight local families came together to invest in the project, helping transform the historic Waters Hardware Building into a gathering place featuring a working brewery, two kitchens, a full bar, and a hidden Speakeasy. Today, Highwind welcomes guests from across Kansas and beyond while continuing to invest in the future of our community.
Our story isn't just about opening a business—it's about proving what's possible when local people invest in local places.
Areas of Expertise
Craft Beer & Brewing
From recipe development and brewing operations to taproom management and creating memorable guest experiences, we're passionate about building a brewery that continues to evolve with every pour.
Entrepreneurship & Business Partnerships
Highwind was built through collaboration. We enjoy sharing insights on launching a business, building strategic partnerships, raising local investment, and navigating the challenges and opportunities of entrepreneurship.
Downtown Revitalization
Highwind is part of a larger effort to revitalize historic downtown Junction City. Through adaptive reuse, community investment, and destination-focused development, we've helped demonstrate how local businesses can strengthen Main Streets and create lasting economic impact.
Media Contacts
Interested in featuring Highwind Brewing Co. or scheduling an interview? Contact our team or complete the below form for media requests, speaking engagements, podcast appearances, partnership opportunities, or access to our media kit. We're happy to provide approved photography, logos, brand information, and additional background materials to support your story.
Highwind Brewing Co.
726 N. Washington Street
Junction City, KS 66441
Phone: 785.530.6432
Email: info@highwindbrewing.com
In The Spotlight
Only Kansas Brewery to Medal at the
2026 US Open Beer Championships
Highwind Brewing Co. earned a Silver medal at the US Open Beer Championships, the third largest beer competition in the country, making us the only brewery in Kansas to medal this year. Our India Pale Lager, Digital Love, took home the honor, with our Japanese Rice Lager, Minato City, also advancing to the finals.
The competition judged 8,000 beers across 180 categories and subcategories, making this recognition a true reflection of the craft and care behind every batch. Congratulations to brewer Patrick and the entire Highwind team on this achievement.
2025 Best Historic Rehabilitation of the Year, Kansas Main Street Awards
Highwind Brewing Co. was honored with the 2025 Best Historic Rehabilitation of the Year award from the Kansas Main Street Awards. The recognition highlights the ongoing investment and preservation efforts taking place within Junction City's historic downtown district, of which Highwind is proud to be a part.
Highwind Awarded CDBG Commercial Rehabilitation Grant
Highwind Brewing Co. was awarded a $300,000 2025 CDBG Commercial Rehabilitation grant from the City of Junction City, developed in partnership with the City's Community Development Department and the Flint Hills Regional Council. The grant supports the transformation of Highwind's second floor into a vibrant event venue, creating new space for weddings, military hail & farewells, corporate events, and community gatherings, all without disrupting the taproom experience below.
This investment reflects Highwind's ongoing commitment to downtown Junction City, supporting local job creation, small business growth, and increased foot traffic throughout the historic district.
Highwind Brewing Co. Brings New Life to Historic Downtown Junction City
Highwind Brewing Co. opened its doors in January 2024 in Junction City's historic downtown district, breathing new life into the long-vacant former Waters True Value building at 8th and Washington. Offering a brewhouse alongside two food concepts, Mill Pizza and 726 Burgers & Bowls, Highwind was built to be a place where the community can eat, drink, and gather.
Backed by early support from Junction City Mainstreet, the Junction City-Geary County EDC and CVB, and the State of Kansas HEAL Grant, Highwind has grown into a cornerstone of downtown revitalization, with a second-floor event space, speakeasy, and rooftop bar all part of its continued growth.