In honor of Women’s History Month, we're kicking off our 2025 Benevolence Beer series with the launch of Fearless Hazel. Brewed in partnership with OperaDelaware, a nonprofit opera company focused on sharing the joy of opera with the masses, Fearless Hazel is an American Lager infused with smoked star anise and ginger to celebrate the trailblazing legacy of Hazel Ying Lee, the first Chinese-American woman to earn a pilot’s license and fly for the U.S. military. Together with OperaDelaware, we wanted to create a beer to Hazel's liking, "Damn potent so good & smooth." Sales of Fearless Hazel will benefit OperaDelaware and the upcoming debut of its new original opera, Fearless created by Derrick Wang, a bold, pioneering show also inspired by the story of Hazel Ying Lee.

“At Dogfish Head, our Beer & Benevolence program is about more than just brewing great beer— it's about giving back to the community that inspires us every day. We thoughtfully choose our partners based on our core pillars of art, environment and community, supporting local organizations that share our passion for creativity, sustainability and making a positive impact.” says Jason King, Leader of Beer & Benevolence. “This year’s first partnership with OperaDelaware allows us to celebrate the arts while raising awareness for important causes, all through the lens of off-centered goodness.”

This limited-edition beer will be available on draft at Brewings & Eats and Chesapeake & Maine and in 4-packs to-go from the Off-Centered EmPOURium on Wednesday, March 5! To coincide with the release, Brewings & Eats will host Benevolence Nights on March 5 and 19, where you can dine and/or drink in support of OperaDelaware. Ten percent of all proceeds from both evenings will be donated to the local non-profit to further its mission of producing bold, creative performances that empower artists, enrich the community, entertain audiences, and inspire curiosity. PLUS - OperaDelaware is planning a special, free performance at Brewings & Eats on March 5! From 6 - 8 p.m., join us for a Pop-Up Opera - a unique, immersive show during which singers will fill the restaurant with classic arias, making every seat a front-row experience.

“We are so thankful to partner with Dogfish Head on the creation of Fearless Hazel, an incredible (and delicious) way to amplify the story of Hazel Ying Lee” said Brendan Cooke, OperaDelaware's General Director. “From its Asian-inspired ingredients to its aviation-centric label artwork, Fearless Hazel is an undeniable homage to Hazel Ying Lee’s bold actions and fearless spirit, just as we hope OperaDelaware's world premiere production of Derrick Wang's FEARLESS will be."

Fearless: The Hazel Ying Story follows the remarkable story of barrier-breaking aviator, Hazel Ying Lee, on her journey to earn a pilot’s license and fly for the U.S. military. Battling racism, sexism, and adversity with courage and wit, Hazel’s vibrant spirit and determination led her to be a founding member of the Women Airforce Service Pilots, flying dangerous missions for her country. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of women aviators and states as a testament to resilience and empowerment. Witness Hazel’s vibrant spirit and bravery with the debut of Fearless on May 16 at 7:30 p.m. and May 18 at 2 p.m. at the Grand Opera House in Wilmington. 

So join us as we raise a glass of this American Lager to a true boundary breaker and celebrate the legacy of a woman who defied expectations and paved the way for future generations of women in aviation!