HUTCHINSON RENO COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber is pleased to present the December Small Business Award to Carrie's Beer Garden, owned and ran by Carrie Thatcher.
Carrie’s Beer Garden was born from a lifelong love of entrepreneurship, family, and the Kansas State Fair. Carrie grew up immersed in the energy of the fairgrounds, working a booth from the age of eight alongside her parents, Charles and Janice Griffin, who have been entrepreneurs for over 45 years. That early experience instilled in her a deep appreciation for hard work, creativity, and community.
In 2021, Carrie turned that passion into Carrie’s Beer Garden, now one of the most iconic venues at the Kansas State Fair. But it’s more than just a bar open for ten days a year—it’s a vibrant entertainment and event space that brings people together year-round. With her children, Jacob and Jadyn, actively involved, the business is a true family affair.
Since its grand remodel, Carrie’s Beer Garden has grown from a seasonal fair bar into a dynamic, year-round event venue. The updated space allows her to host everything from class reunions to weddings, while her menu now features fan favorites like burnt end fries, bacon jam sliders, and, of course, the legendary lobster corn dogs—a recipe Carrie perfected in secret at the local bingo hall! And for those looking for something fun and unique? You haven’t truly lived until you’ve tried a Duckin’ Blue cocktail!
Carrie’s creativity doesn’t stop there. She launched the Drunken Duck, a mobile bar that brings the Beer Garden’s signature fun to events across the region. By staying connected with the community through social media, attending the Bar & Restaurant Expo, and continually innovating her offerings, Carrie ensures every visit is a memorable experience.
Carrie’s Beer Garden isn’t just about food and drinks—it’s about community and family. With around 40 employees, many of whom return year after year, Carrie fosters a culture of loyalty, teamwork, and fun. When challenges arise, like torrential rain during the State Fair, her team rallies together, ensuring guests still enjoy a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
Giving back is a cornerstone of Carrie’s business. She’s supported local causes from the Hutchinson Zoo to TECH Creative Connections and even took her food truck to feed residents after the Plevna tornado. The Drunken Duck is also available for fundraisers, helping nonprofits raise money while bringing people together.
For Carrie, success means having fun while building a business that honors her family’s legacy and strengthens the Reno County community. She wants everyone to know that behind every cold drink and live performance is a team that truly cares, creating memories and experiences that last long after the last toast.
Congratulations to Carrie’s Beer Garden, a place where tradition, creativity, and community come together. If you haven’t visited yet, stop by at 403 Grandstand Avenue in Hutchinson, follow them on Facebook to see what all the buzz is about. Cheers to Carrie and her incredible team!