Hale’s Ales to close after 39 years

One of the neighborhood’s oldest breweries, Hale’s Ales is shutting its doors next month.

Hale’s Ales, which opened in 1983, was one of the pioneers of the Pacific Northwest brewery scene. As the third-oldest brewery in the PNW, Hale’s paved the way for Ballard’s evolving brewery district, now home to over a dozen breweries.

Mike Hale and the original owners say they’re ready to “embark upon their next journey,” they shared in a social media post. “Like many businesses in the hospitality industry, it has been a difficult past few years,” they write.

“While this announcement comes with a sense of sadness, we also celebrate all the good times, history and great beer that has flowed from our taps. Hale’s Ales wouldn’t be the same without our regulars, longtime fans, and amazing staff; we are so grateful for the community this building has served and we look forward to sharing one last drink with you,” the announcement reads.

Their last day will be April 9; until then, they’re open Monday to Friday from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Saturdays from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. They’ll have one last season of the Moisture Festival in the Palladium, which will run from March 17 to April 10.