Community members gathered at Broken Clock Brewing Cooperative in a spirit of solidarity on Saturday, March 8 to celebrate International Women’s Day, bringing community and creativity together in celebration of local women. The brewery celebrated the day, dedicated to empowering women, by supporting community and promoting local entrepreneurship.
The lively gathering drew more than 20 visitors eager to participate in a variety of female-focused activities. Among the highlights was a dynamic self-defense class aptly named “Learn to Throw a Punch and Protect Your Peace,” giving attendees practical skills for empowerment and personal safety.
Participants also joined forces to assemble period kits, offering essential hygiene products for individuals in need — an effort that underscored the event’s emphasis on community service and mutual support. Volunteers assembled 318 period kits, 100 more than were assembled at the 2024 event.
Local women vendors showcased their unique products and talents, creating a vibrant marketplace within the brewery. Attendees browsed handmade goods and the services of women-owned businesses, demonstrating strong support for female entrepreneurs in Minneapolis.
Rah Hernandez, one of the owners of Feminist Book Club in Minneapolis, hosted a book booth inside the brewery. It was the second year Feminist Book Club attended Broken Clock Brewing’s annual Women’s Day. “It’s not just for women, feminism is for everybody,” Hernandez said.
Danielle Lewis, owner of Breathe Easy Candle Co, had attended previous events at Broken Clock Brewing, yet found being invited to this event to have a special meaning.
“It’s a great opportunity to get out and showcase your stuff as a woman. I love doing events all over the Twin Cities, especially in March for Women’s Month,” Lewis said
The brewery also marked the occasion by introducing a new beer called “Wild Women,” a wild rice amber ale crafted to honor the strength, creativity and resilience of women.
Quinton Lee, Broken Clock event coordinator, said 200 people visited the brewery that day. “We’ll probably lean into it a little more next year,” he said, “with more activities.”