A new craft brewery, taproom, and event space is coming to the heart of downtown Elmira.
ELMIRA, N.Y. — Draft River Brewing Company, a new craft brewery led by owner Marc Stemerman, has announced plans to open inside the LECOM Event Center in downtown Elmira in Fall 2026. The brewery will feature a full taproom, food menu, and dedicated event space — bringing locally brewed craft beer and a new community gathering place to the heart of the city.
Construction and build-out planning are currently underway. Draft River will offer a rotating lineup of house-brewed beers alongside an approachable, locally inspired food menu, creating a year-round destination for residents and visitors alike.
Leading the brewing operation is Pat Palmer, a seasoned local brewer whose experience and craft will shape every pour at Draft River.
“We want Draft River to be another reason for people to come to downtown Elmira,” said Marc Stemerman, owner of Draft River Brewing Company. “Our goal is to help revitalize it and make it a place people genuinely want to come to — to grab a beer, share a meal, and spend time with their neighbors.”
The brewery’s location inside the LECOM Event Center will give patrons attending concerts, sporting events, and community gatherings direct access to the taproom, while Draft River will also operate as a standalone destination throughout the week. Plans for the event space include hosting local musicians, themed nights, and community-focused programming.
Additional details on Draft River’s beer lineup, menu, hours, and event booking will be announced in the months leading up to the Fall 2026 opening.
About Draft River Brewing Company
Draft River Brewing Company is a craft brewery, taproom, and event space opening in Fall 2026 inside the LECOM Event Center in downtown Elmira, New York. Founded by Marc Stemerman, Draft River is built around quality craft beer, approachable food, and creating a welcoming gathering place for the Chemung Valley community.
About LECOM Event Center
The LECOM Event Center is downtown Elmira’s premier venue for concerts, sporting events, and community gatherings, managed by OYD Management.
