Platz Beer Garden opens in restored historic Keene church

Platz Beer Garden will celebrate its grand opening on Nov. 7 inside a restored 150-year-old church at 34 Court Street in downtown Keene. The project brings a long-vacant landmark back into community use with beer, food, events and sustainability-focused operations.

Why it matters: - The restored church at 34 Court Street returns to active community use after sitting empty. - The project preserves a major downtown Keene landmark while giving it a new economic and social role. - The opening adds a family-friendly gathering space just off Central Square.

What happened: - Platz Beer Garden will hold its Grand Opening Celebration on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026, in downtown Keene, New Hampshire. - The beer garden is located inside the restored 150-year-old church at 34 Court Street. - The building was originally constructed in 1869. - The venue is positioned as Keene's newest community gathering place.

The details: - The restoration repaired the church's stained glass and preserved its architectural character. - The renovation also modernized the building's systems for safety and energy efficiency. - Original features remain, including the cathedral ceiling and choir loft. - The bar was built from the church's original altar woodwork and pews. - Platz offers about 20 rotating taps, curated wines and simple German-inspired fare. - The concept combines European beer hall style with New England hospitality. - The business is open Thursday from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m., Friday from 4 p.m. to midnight, and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to midnight. - Regular programming includes live music, seasonal festivals, Sanctuary Sunday yoga, pilates and barre with Everglow, and private events. - The venue's sustainability efforts include composting, recycling and sourcing from vendors that share Platz's values. - The grand opening will feature live music throughout the day, games and activities for friends, families and neighbors, giveaways, and the launch of The Sacred Order of Hop & Vine beer and wine membership. - Event details are available at the grand opening event page.

Between the lines: - The restoration keeps the building's history visible while shifting its use from worship to hospitality. - Founder and owner Zach Luse said the goal was not to erase the building's past but to preserve it for another 150 years. - The reuse of altar woodwork and pews as bar materials is meant to tie the new business directly to the site's original identity.

What's next: - Platz Beer Garden will continue regular service after the grand opening. - The Sacred Order of Hop & Vine membership will formally launch during the celebration. - The venue is expected to build out its role as a year-round social space for downtown Keene.

The bottom line: - A historic church in Keene has been turned into a modern gathering place without losing the building's defining character.