Games, Play, and Drinkware

Across cultures and centuries, drinking has never been just about the beverage—it has been a stage for skill, creativity, and social connection. From the flowing streams of the Orchid Pavilion in China to the flung wine of Ancient Greece, from the trick-spouting Puzzle Jugs of England to the dexterous Passglas of northern Europe and the playful porrón of Spain, humans have turned drinkware itself into a tool of entertainment, artistry, and friendly competition.

These objects and their associated games reveal how form and function intertwine: the shape of a cup, the placement of a spout, or the rings on a glass dictated the rules of the game, shaping how participants interacted with each other. They also reflect cultural values—precision, wit, communal joy, or aesthetic expression—while transforming ordinary moments into memorable experiences.

In this section, the design itself mirrors the spirit of these games: flowing lines, playful shapes, and careful attention to detail echo the curves of a kylix, the spout of a porrón, and the winding path of a floating wine cup. Visitors are invited to explore not just the drinkware, but the creativity and connection that it inspired, reminding us that the act of drinking has always been a performance in culture, skill, and delight.

Special thanks to Beer Culture Center Board Member, Lucas Livingston, for his contributions to this section.