International Beer Festival – Page 2

Belgian Beer Weekend (Brussels, Belgium)

January 16, 2026October 12, 2024 by esar431

Overview and Experience:

Stepping into the Belgian Beer Weekend feels like walking into a celebration of history, tradition, and the world’s finest beer. Held in Brussels’ Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the festival showcases Belgium’s incredible beer culture. The event typically takes place in early September, transforming the iconic square into a beer lover’s paradise, with tents from over 50 Belgian breweries offering hundreds of different brews.

The Grand Place, with its stunning Gothic architecture and rich history, provides a breathtaking backdrop for this festival. The cobbled streets and medieval buildings transport you to another time, and the aroma of malt, hops, and brewing yeast fills the air. From the smallest artisanal brewers to world-famous Trappist monasteries, Belgium’s brewing heritage is on full display.

Whether you’re a connoisseur or a casual beer drinker, Belgian Beer Weekend offers a chance to taste the full spectrum of Belgium’s brewing styles. The atmosphere is festive but laid-back, with live music, parades, and traditional games adding to the fun. It’s not just a beer festival—it’s a cultural event that draws visitors from around the world.

The Beer Experience:

Belgium is home to some of the most revered beer styles in the world, and the Belgian Beer Weekend is your opportunity to sample them all. The beers you’ll encounter here are not just drinks—they’re works of art, crafted by brewers who have spent centuries perfecting their craft. Some of the most iconic Belgian beer styles include:

Trappist Beers: Brewed by monks within the walls of Trappist monasteries, these beers are often strong, complex, and steeped in tradition. Look out for famous names like Westmalle, Chimay, and Orval. Trappist ales typically include:
    Dubbel: A dark, malty beer with rich flavors of caramel, raisins, and dark fruit.
    Tripel: A pale, strong ale with a higher alcohol content and fruity, spicy notes.
    Quadrupel: The strongest of the Trappist ales, with a deep, rich flavor and a high ABV (usually above 10%).

Lambics and Gueuze: These wild, spontaneously fermented beers are unique to Belgium. Lambics are often aged in wooden barrels and can be blended to create gueuze, a sparkling beer with a tart, sour character. Look for:
    Kriek: A cherry-infused lambic, which balances the beer’s natural sourness with a fruity sweetness.
    Framboise: A raspberry lambic with a refreshing, tart flavor profile.

Saisons: Originally brewed by farmers in Wallonia to refresh workers during the harvest season, these beers are dry, fruity, and lightly spiced. Saisons typically have a low-to-moderate ABV and are perfect for sipping on a warm day in the Grand Place.

Belgian Pale Ale: Balanced and easy-drinking, Belgian pale ales have a malt-forward flavor with subtle hop bitterness. They’re often lighter than other Belgian beers, making them a great option for an afternoon of tasting.

Witbier: A Belgian-style wheat beer brewed with spices like coriander and orange peel. Light, hazy, and refreshing, witbiers are ideal for a sunny day.

At the festival, you’ll find beers from both small craft brewers and larger, more established names. Don’t miss the chance to try beers from breweries like Duvel, known for its strong golden ale, and Rodenbach, famous for its sour Flemish red ales.

The Food Experience:

Belgium is as famous for its food as it is for its beer, and the Belgian Beer Weekend offers plenty of opportunities to sample traditional Belgian fare. As you sip on your beer, you can enjoy classic dishes that complement the rich flavors of the brews on offer.

Moules-frites: A quintessential Belgian dish of mussels steamed in white wine and herbs, served with a generous portion of crispy fries. The salty, savory flavors of the mussels pair beautifully with a crisp Belgian pale ale or witbier.

Carbonnade Flamande: A hearty beef stew made with dark Belgian beer, onions, and spices, often served with mashed potatoes or fries. This rich, savory dish is perfect alongside a dubbel or quadrupel.

Belgian Waffles: For dessert, nothing beats a warm, freshly made Belgian waffle. Topped with powdered sugar, whipped cream, or fresh fruit, these waffles are light, fluffy, and perfect for pairing with a fruity lambic or a rich stout.

Cheese Plates: Belgium is home to some excellent cheeses, and many vendors at the festival offer cheese plates that pair perfectly with your beer. Try a creamy Chimay cheese with a robust trappist ale or a tangy blue cheese with a sour gueuze.

Why Belgian Beer Weekend is Unique:

The Belgian Beer Weekend is a celebration of both beer and heritage. What sets it apart from other beer festivals is the sheer depth and variety of Belgium’s brewing tradition. This isn’t just a place to drink beer—it’s a chance to explore centuries of brewing history and to appreciate the artistry and dedication that goes into every bottle. The festival is a true showcase of the country’s diverse beer culture, with styles ranging from the funky and sour to the rich and complex.

The setting in the Grand Place adds another layer of magic to the experience. As you sip your beer and take in the sights of Brussels, you’re surrounded by some of the most beautiful and historic architecture in Europe. It’s hard not to feel like you’re part of something special when you’re standing in the heart of one of the world’s great cities, enjoying some of the best beer on Earth.

Pro Tips for First-Time Attendees:

Start slow: Many Belgian beers are high in alcohol content, so it’s important to pace yourself. Begin with lighter styles like witbier or saison, and gradually work your way up to stronger beers like tripels and quadrupels.

Mix and match: Don’t be afraid to mix different beer styles throughout the day. Belgian beer is known for its versatility, and you’ll find that many styles complement each other beautifully.

Talk to the brewers: One of the best things about Belgian Beer Weekend is the opportunity to meet the brewers behind the beers. Many of the smaller breweries are happy to chat about their brewing process, and they’ll often have great recommendations for what to try next.

Explore beyond the beer: While the beer is the star of the show, don’t forget to enjoy the other aspects of the festival. Watch the traditional parades, listen to live music, and take part in the games and activities scattered throughout the square.

The Belgian Beer Weekend is a must-visit for any beer enthusiast. It offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the depth and complexity of Belgian brewing, all while surrounded by the beauty and history of Brussels’ Grand Place. Whether you’re a fan of fruity lambics, strong ales, or something in between, you’ll find plenty to love at this festival. With its unique blend of tradition, innovation, and celebration, Belgian Beer Weekend is an experience you’ll remember long after your glass is empty.

Great British Beer Festival (London, UK)

January 16, 2026October 12, 2024 by esar431

Overview and Experience:

Imagine walking into a grand, historic venue in the heart of London, the Olympia Exhibition Centre, filled to the brim with over 900 real ales, ciders, perries, and foreign beers. The Great British Beer Festival (GBBF), organized by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), is one of the most iconic beer events in the UK. The atmosphere is relaxed, and while it’s a massive event, it feels intimate, with beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike savoring each sip and enjoying good conversation.

The festival lasts for five days in early August, and it’s more than just a beer lover’s paradise—it’s a celebration of Britain’s long brewing traditions. When I attended, I found the setup to be charmingly British. It feels as though the whole country has gathered to appreciate one of their greatest national treasures: real ale. It’s a place where you can sample beers you’ve never heard of, but quickly come to love, and enjoy the camaraderie that comes with being surrounded by fellow beer fans.

Live music, pub games, and food stalls selling traditional British fare add to the event’s lively but laid-back vibe. You can feel the pride that the brewers and organizers take in showing off the best of British brewing.

The Beer Experience:

GBBF focuses heavily on real ale—beer that is brewed from traditional ingredients, conditioned in the cask from which it’s served, and dispensed without additional nitrogen or carbon dioxide pressure. This method produces a smoother, less fizzy beer, with a complexity and depth of flavor that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Some of the iconic beer styles you’ll encounter include:

Bitter: This classic British beer is moderately hopped with a malty backbone and mild alcohol content (around 3-4% ABV). It’s smooth and refreshing, with just enough hop bitterness to keep you coming back for more.
Porter: A dark beer with rich flavors of chocolate and coffee, porter is one of the oldest styles in British brewing. GBBF features both traditional porters and more modern interpretations of the style.
Stout: Another dark beer, but often heavier than porter, stout offers roasted flavors, with some variations including sweetness, such as milk stout, which contains lactose for a smoother taste.
Mild Ale: A lower-alcohol (usually under 4%) beer, mild ale is malt-forward with caramel and toffee notes, making it a great session beer for long conversations with friends.
Golden Ale: A lighter, more refreshing beer, golden ales have a clean malt profile and subtle hop character, perfect for a warm summer day.

GBBF doesn’t just cater to traditionalists—there are plenty of options for those who prefer modern craft beer styles, including:

Session IPAs: Lower in alcohol than their American counterparts, session IPAs are designed for easy drinking while still packing a punch of hoppy flavor.
Barrel-aged beers: Some brewers experiment with aging their beers in barrels previously used for whisky or wine, imparting complex flavors like vanilla, oak, and smoke.

You’ll also find an impressive selection of ciders and perries, often overlooked but beloved by many. With options ranging from dry and crisp to sweet and fruity, there’s something to please every palate.

The Food Experience:

One of the best things about the Great British Beer Festival is its commitment to offering food that pairs perfectly with beer. As you stroll through the venue, you’ll find food stalls offering a variety of traditional British fare, as well as some international options. Must-try dishes include:

Meat pies: These savory pastries are filled with tender meat, vegetables, and gravy, and they’re the perfect comfort food to enjoy with a pint of bitter or stout.
Fish and chips: This British classic pairs wonderfully with a crisp golden ale or a refreshing cider.
Sausages and mash: Hearty and flavorful, sausages served with mashed potatoes and gravy are a staple at the festival.
Cheese boards: Artisanal cheeses paired with crusty bread and chutneys are a great match for both real ales and stouts.
Scotch eggs: A boiled egg wrapped in sausage meat, coated in breadcrumbs, and fried to perfection. These snacks are both filling and delicious, perfect for soaking up the beer!

For dessert, treat yourself to a Victoria sponge cake or sticky toffee pudding—classic British sweets that offer a sugary counterpoint to the more robust, roasted beers like porter and stout.

Why GBBF is Unique:

The Great British Beer Festival stands apart because it’s more than just a place to drink beer—it’s a celebration of real ale, and a nod to centuries of brewing history in the UK. There’s a palpable sense of pride in showcasing British beers, but what makes GBBF particularly special is its atmosphere. While it’s a huge festival, it retains the charm and warmth of a local pub. You’ll find yourself striking up conversations with fellow beer lovers, discussing the nuances of different brews, and perhaps learning a thing or two from the CAMRA volunteers who are always eager to share their knowledge.

The festival’s focus on real ale sets it apart from other events, especially in a world where craft beer is often dominated by cutting-edge innovations and extreme flavors. At GBBF, the focus is on the fundamentals—perfecting the balance between malt, hops, and yeast to create beers that are flavorful yet easy to drink.

Pro Tips for First-Time Attendees:

If you’re planning your first trip to GBBF, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your experience:

Plan your tasting journey: With so many beers to try, it’s a good idea to review the beer list in advance and prioritize the styles or breweries you’re most interested in. But be sure to leave room for exploration—you never know when you’ll stumble upon a hidden gem!
Start with a session: If you’re new to real ale, begin with a lower-alcohol session beer or golden ale. These styles are light, refreshing, and easy to drink, making them a great introduction to the world of British beer.
Try the cider and perry: Don’t overlook the cider and perry offerings—they’re a refreshing change of pace and showcase a different side of British brewing traditions.
Eat regularly: The food at GBBF is fantastic, and it’s essential to line your stomach if you’re planning on sampling multiple beers throughout the day. Plus, the food is delicious, so it’s a win-win!

The Great British Beer Festival is a must-attend event for anyone who loves beer, whether you’re a seasoned real ale aficionado or a newcomer eager to explore traditional British styles. The festival offers a unique opportunity to dive deep into the world of real ale, discover new favorite brews, and experience the convivial atmosphere of a British pub—on a grand scale. With its wide selection of beers, ciders, and perries, paired with delicious food and live entertainment, GBBF is a beer lover’s dream come true.

The next one is set occur 5-9 August 2025. The Great British Beer Festival will be hosted at NEC Birmingham Pendigo Way Birmingham B40 1NT

Great American Beer Festival (Denver, USA)

January 16, 2026October 12, 2024 by esar431

Overview and Experience:

The Great American Beer Festival (GABF) in Denver, Colorado, is the premier event for beer lovers in the United States. It’s not just a beer festival—it’s the largest ticketed beer event in the country, an experience that any serious beer enthusiast should have on their bucket list. Hosted annually by the Brewers Association, the festival brings together over 800 breweries, offering more than 4,000 beers to sample, making it a paradise for anyone looking to explore the vast diversity of the American craft beer scene.

Imagine walking into the sprawling Colorado Convention Center, where aisles upon aisles of tasting booths await you. Each booth represents a different brewery, and they range from small local operations to well-known national brands. Whether you’re a die-hard IPA fan or someone who prefers a malty, smooth porter, there’s something for every palate at GABF. The sheer variety of beer styles is staggering, and while it can be overwhelming to decide where to start, it’s also an exciting opportunity to expand your beer horizons.

The festival lasts for three days, and it’s divided into multiple sessions, allowing you to experience the event at your own pace. GABF also hosts educational seminars, tasting sessions, and discussions on the latest brewing techniques. You’ll meet brewers, taste new releases, and get an inside look at the craft brewing industry. The festival is a celebration of the creativity and passion that drives the American beer movement.

The Beer Experience:

The diversity of beer styles on offer at GABF is what truly sets it apart. You’ll encounter everything from classic styles like:

American Pale Ale: A hop-forward but balanced beer with a crisp, refreshing finish.
India Pale Ale (IPA): Known for its strong hop bitterness and aroma, ranging from piney and resinous to fruity and tropical.
Stout: Dark, rich beers with roasted flavors, often featuring notes of coffee, chocolate, and caramel.
Pilsner: A light, crisp, and refreshing lager with a clean malt backbone and a slightly bitter finish.
Porter: Similar to stout but typically lighter in body, offering a mix of chocolate and roasted malt flavors.

But beyond the classics, GABF is also the place to find cutting-edge innovation in the brewing world. Here are a few of the experimental and seasonal beers you’ll encounter:

Barrel-aged stouts: These are often the stars of the show, featuring deep, complex flavors of chocolate, coffee, vanilla, and oak from being aged in bourbon or whiskey barrels.
Sours and wild ales: These beers are fermented with wild yeast strains like Brettanomyces, which give them a tart, funky flavor. Many of them are brewed with fruit like cherries, raspberries, or peaches, adding a juicy layer to the sourness.
Hazy IPAs: Also known as New England IPAs, these are juicy, fruity, and cloudy beers that have taken the craft beer world by storm. They’re less bitter than traditional IPAs, with flavors of tropical fruit like mango, pineapple, and guava.
Fruit-infused beers: From passionfruit to grapefruit, many breweries experiment with adding fruit to their beers, creating refreshing, flavorful brews that are perfect for sipping.
Spiced beers: During the fall, you might also come across spiced beers brewed with ingredients like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, reminiscent of pumpkin pie or mulled cider.

In addition to the diverse beer offerings, GABF includes a prestigious competition judged by beer experts. Breweries submit their beers in various categories, and medals are awarded for the best examples of each style. Winning a GABF medal is a significant achievement for breweries, and it often serves as a mark of excellence for the beer.

Food and Pairings:

While beer is the star of the show, GABF also offers a fantastic array of food options that pair perfectly with the brews. Throughout the festival, you’ll find food trucks and vendors serving everything from gourmet burgers to artisan pretzels. Some of the culinary highlights include:

Gourmet burgers: Topped with everything from bacon and blue cheese to avocado and spicy aioli, these burgers are a satisfying companion to a cold beer.
BBQ: Think slow-smoked brisket, pulled pork, and ribs, all served with tangy sauces that enhance the bold flavors of stouts and porters.
Pretzels: Soft, chewy pretzels with a side of beer cheese or mustard are a festival staple. The salty snack pairs beautifully with lagers and IPAs alike.
Cheese plates: Artisanal cheeses paired with bread, fruits, and nuts are a perfect match for Belgian-style ales and sours.
Beer ice cream: Yes, you read that right! Some vendors serve ice cream made with craft beer, offering a sweet and creamy treat that’s a must-try.

Why GABF is Unique:

The Great American Beer Festival is a celebration of not just beer but the entire craft brewing industry in the U.S. It’s a place where creativity and tradition come together, offering a window into the incredible diversity of the American beer scene. What makes GABF truly special is its focus on education. In addition to the tastings, the festival offers a variety of seminars on topics ranging from brewing techniques to beer and food pairings. You’ll walk away from GABF with not only a full belly but also a deeper understanding of the art of brewing.

For those interested in more than just tasting, GABF also offers the opportunity to meet the brewers behind the beers. It’s a chance to hear the stories of small, independent breweries and to learn about the process and passion that goes into making each pint.

Additionally, GABF’s atmosphere is fun, festive, and welcoming. Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of craft beer, you’ll find a community of fellow beer lovers eager to share their knowledge and enthusiasm. The festival is also home to plenty of beer-themed activities, including brewery swag giveaways, photo booths, and even a silent disco where you can dance the night away after a long day of tasting.

Pro Tips for First-Time Attendees:

If you’re attending GABF for the first time, here are a few tips to make the most of your experience:

Plan ahead: With so many beers to try, it’s helpful to review the brewery and beer lists before you go. Make a plan to prioritize the styles or breweries you’re most excited about, but also leave room for discovery.
Hydrate and pace yourself: It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and try to sample everything, but remember that you’re in this for the long haul. Drink water between tastings and pace yourself to avoid burning out too early.
Go for the gold: Pay attention to the beers that have won GABF medals. These are often the best examples of their styles, and they’re a great starting point if you’re looking for a sure thing.
Try something new: One of the best parts of GABF is the opportunity to step out of your comfort zone. If you’re normally a stout drinker, give a sour or a fruit beer a try. You might discover a new favorite.

The Great American Beer Festival is an unparalleled celebration of craft beer in the U.S. Whether you’re there to taste innovative new brews, meet the passionate people behind your favorite brands, or simply enjoy the lively, festive atmosphere, GABF delivers an unforgettable experience. It’s a true reflection of the creativity, community, and craftsmanship that define the American beer industry.