10 Beer Festivals to remember (or not)
Beer festivals are a celebration of the world’s most popular alcoholic beverage, bringing together beer enthusiasts from around the globe to sample the finest craft beers, ciders, and ales. These festivals showcase the diversity of flavors, styles, and brewing techniques used by different breweries, and provide a unique opportunity for beer lovers to connect with fellow enthusiasts and learn more about their favorite beverage.
From the iconic Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany to the lesser-known but equally vibrant Bratislava Beer Festival, Europe is home to countless beer festivals that attract thousands of visitors each year. Whether you’re a seasoned beer aficionado or a curious beginner, attending a beer festival is an experience unlike any other.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the top 10 beer festivals in Europe. So grab a cold one, sit back, and let’s dive into the world of beer festivals!
1. Prague Beer Festival, Czech Republic
Taking place in the heart of Prague, the Prague Beer Festival is an annual event that celebrates the unique culture of Czech beer. First held in 2008, the festival has grown to become one of the largest beer festivals in the country. The festival, which usually takes place in May, lasts for an impressive 17 days, making it one of the longest beer festivals in the world.
The event boasts over 150 different beers from over 70 breweries across the Czech Republic, as well as a selection of international beers. Visitors can sample a wide variety of different beer styles, including traditional Czech lagers, pilsners, and dark beers. The festival also offers a range of food vendors, live music, and cultural events and activities, making it a great place to relax and soak up the local atmosphere.
Located in Letná Park, one of Prague’s largest parks, the festival offers visitors stunning views of the city skyline. The park is easily accessible by public transportation, making it a great location to enjoy some great beer, food, and culture in a beautiful setting.
For beer enthusiasts and travelers looking to experience the rich history and culture of Czech beer, the Prague Beer Festival is a must-visit destination. With its wide variety of beers and events, it’s a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique flavors and traditions of Czech brewing.
Date: 31 March – 1 April 2023
2. Bratislava Beer Festival, Slovakia
The Bratislava Beer Festival is an annual event held in the Slovakian capital of Bratislava. The festival was first held in 2010 and has since become one of the largest beer festivals in the country. The festival is usually held in the summer months and lasts for four to five days. The event features over 200 different beers from over 70 breweries across Slovakia, as well as a selection of international beers.
Visitors can sample a wide variety of different beer styles, including traditional Slovakian pilsners, stouts, and wheat beers. The festival also features food vendors, live music, and cultural events and activities. The festival takes place at the Bratislava Castle, a stunning fortress perched on a hill overlooking the city. The location offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding landscape. The festival is easily accessible by public transportation and is a great opportunity to experience the unique culture and history of Slovakia while also enjoying delicious beer.
Date: 18 April – 20 April 2023
3. Copenhagen Beer Festival, Denmark
In the heart of Copenhagen, Denmark, lies one of the most popular beer festivals in Scandinavia: the Copenhagen Beer Festival. This annual event was first held in 2012 and has since become a highlight on the beer-lover’s calendar. Usually taking place in May, the festival lasts for three days and boasts over 100 breweries from around the world. While the focus is on Nordic and European beers, visitors can expect to sample a wide range of styles, including traditional lagers and experimental IPAs and sour beers. The festival is not just about the beer, however. Food vendors offer a variety of delicious options, while live music and beer-related activities and games ensure there’s always something to do. For those interested in the vibrant beer culture of Denmark and Scandinavia, the Copenhagen Beer Festival is a must-visit destination. Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or simply looking for a fun and unique experience, the festival is sure to deliver. With its picturesque setting and enthusiastic atmosphere, the Copenhagen Beer Festival is an event that should not be missed.
Date: 5 – 13 May 2023
4. Festival de la Bière de Paris, France
Situated in the heart of Paris, the Festival de la Bière de Paris is a highly anticipated annual beer festival that attracts visitors from across France and beyond. The festival, which has been held every year since 2002, is one of the largest and most popular beer festivals in the country, showcasing a diverse range of beer styles from over 25 breweries across France, as well as a selection of international beers.
Typically held in June, the three-day festival features over 75 different beers that cater to the diverse tastes of attendees, including traditional French beers, Belgian ales, and German lagers. Food vendors, live music, and cultural events and activities add to the lively atmosphere of the festival.
Held at the Parc Floral de Paris, a beautiful public park located in the Bois de Vincennes on the eastern edge of the city, the festival provides a great opportunity to relax and enjoy some of the finest beers that France has to offer. The location is easily accessible by public transportation and offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city while still being in its heart.
Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or simply looking to experience the unique culture of French beer, the Festival de la Bière de Paris is a must-visit destination that offers a memorable experience for all attendees.
Date: 8 – 14 May 2023
5. Bruges Beer Festival, Belgium
The Bruges Beer Festival is an annual beer festival held in the picturesque city of Bruges, Belgium. The festival was first held in 2007 and has since become one of the most popular beer festivals in Belgium. The festival is usually held in February and lasts for three days. The event features over 300 different beers from over 70 breweries across Belgium, as well as a selection of international beers. Visitors can sample a wide variety of different beer styles, including traditional Belgian lambics, abbey ales, and Trappist beers.
The festival also features food vendors, live music, and cultural events and activities. The festival takes place at the historic Beurshal, a large exhibition hall in the heart of Bruges that dates back to the early 1900s. The location is easily accessible by public transportation and is surrounded by beautiful architecture and picturesque canals. The Bruges Beer Festival is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the unique culture and history of Belgian beer in a stunning setting.
Date: 10 – 11 June 2023
6. Great British Beer Festival in London, England
The Great British Beer Festival is an annual beer festival held in Olympia, London. The festival was first held in 1977 and has since become one of the largest and most important beer festivals in the UK. The festival is usually held in August and lasts for five days. It features over 900 different beers from over 400 breweries across the UK, as well as a selection of ciders, perries, and international beers. Visitors can sample a wide variety of different beer styles, from traditional ales to experimental craft beers. The festival also features food vendors, live music, and educational events and seminars. The Great British Beer Festival is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the rich history and diversity of British beer, and for those who want to experience the unique culture of the UK’s vibrant beer scene.
Date: 1 – 5 August 2023
7. Budapest Beer Festival, Hungary
Beer lovers visiting Budapest shouldn’t miss the annual Budapest Beer Festival, one of the largest and most popular beer festivals in Hungary. The festival has been held since 2011 and typically takes place in May, lasting for several days. Visitors can enjoy over 250 beers from more than 70 different breweries from Hungary and around the world. The festival provides an opportunity to sample a wide variety of beers ranging from traditional Hungarian lagers and ales to international IPAs and stouts.
In addition to beer tastings, the festival also features live music, cultural events, and plenty of food options, including local Hungarian specialties. The festival takes place at the historic and picturesque Buda Castle, which provides a beautiful backdrop to the festivities. With its stunning views of the Danube River and the city skyline, the Budapest Beer Festival is a great way to experience the unique culture and history of Hungary while also enjoying delicious beer.
Date: 29 August – 3 September 2023
8. Stockholm Beer & Whisky Festival, Sweden
The Stockholm Beer & Whisky Festival is an annual event held in Stockholm, Sweden. The festival was first held in 1992 and has since become one of the largest beer and whisky festivals in the Nordic countries. The festival is usually held in September and lasts for two weekends. The event features over 700 different beers and whiskies from over 200 breweries and distilleries across the world. Visitors can sample a wide variety of different beer and whisky styles, from traditional lagers to experimental craft beers and rare single malts.
The festival also features food vendors, live music, and educational events and seminars on brewing and distilling. The event takes place at the Nacka Strandsmässan, a modern exhibition and conference centre located just a short drive from the city centre. The Stockholm Beer & Whisky Festival is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the unique culture of Nordic beer and whisky.
Date: 31 August – 2 September 2023
9. Brussels Beer Festival, Belgium
The Brussels Beer Festival is an annual beer festival held in the Belgian capital of Brussels. The festival was first held in 2000 and has since become one of the largest beer festivals in Belgium, which is known for its rich brewing tradition. The festival is usually held in early September and lasts for three days. The event features over 50 different beers from over 30 breweries across Belgium, as well as a selection of international beers. Visitors can sample a wide variety of different beer styles, including traditional Belgian lambics, abbey ales, and Trappist beers.
The festival also features food vendors, live music, and cultural events and activities. The festival takes place at the Grand Place, one of the most iconic and historic squares in Europe, which is surrounded by beautiful architecture and is easily accessible by public transportation. The Brussels Beer Festival is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the unique culture of Belgian beer.
Date: 1 – 3 September 2023
10. Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany
Oktoberfest Munich is one of the world’s most famous beer festivals, held annually in Munich, Germany. The festival dates back to 1810 and has become a global cultural phenomenon. It usually runs for 16 days, starting in mid to late September and ending on the first weekend of October. The festival attracts millions of visitors each year, who come to enjoy the local beer, traditional Bavarian cuisine, and carnival rides and games. The festival is held in multiple large tents, each sponsored by a different local brewery, and visitors can sample different types of beer from each. Oktoberfest Munich is also known for its opening ceremony, which involves a parade of horse-drawn carriages and brass bands. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in beer or Bavarian culture, and a fun and lively atmosphere for all visitors.
Date: 16 September – 3 October 2023
