The tasting room at Paradox Brewery has always been a very social place. So popular is the joint that during its first year in business, it was often elbow-to-elbow action, as you had your growlers refilled, while tasting the latest batch of beer.

Last summer brewery founder Paul MRocka and his partners moved the action out to the upper deck. This year, they have taken a giant leap in creating one gosh, dang, perfect beer garden on the brewery’s sprawling back lot.

Right behind the brewery, set amongst the ADK’s finest greenery, there’s a summer tent, which from Wednesday to Sunday has become a must visit stop for craft brew beer lovers and thirsty folks near and far.

With the brewery’s Farmer’s Beer License firmly in place – using local ingredients to make their popular beverages – comes the privilege of selling pints by the glass, as you wait to get your growlers filled.

It’s become an impromptu gathering spot for locals, holidaymakers, beer buffs and those passing by, who on a whim, turn into the parking lot and see why all of those cars are parked out front.

Out back, you will find the friendly and extremely knowledgeable staff – including Joanie, Erin, Jenn and Vicki, serving up the ice-old treats.

There’s always an interesting crowd and the conversation comes easy.

Locals quiz newbie’s about their favorite style of beer  -- and offer their own recommendations.

On a recent sunny Friday afternoon a couple of home brewers bought a few samples to share. Reviews were given, as the brewers talked about their dreams for opening their own brewery.

Meanwhile, a couple was throwing the beanbags at the Camp Mrocka Bean Bag Throw. There were a lot of laughs and good times in the making.

As the sun finally set, a bunch of the crowd moved to Sticks and Stones, for their outdoor Friday night Concert series, featuring a mini version of the beer tent. Life is short. Drink good beer and you’ll always be happy! Paradox Beer is now sold in all Schroon Lake Pubs, bars and  restaurants with liquor licenses!