Beer fairs and festivals are back
After more than a year and a half of the pandemic, the first green shoots are appearing when it comes to large in-person beer events. We’re not talking about small tastings, but about trade fairs, festivals and industry conventions. The progressive increase in the vaccinated population allows us to return—while observing safety measures—to stands, food trucks and long shared tables. Below we highlight some of the major events awaiting us in the last quarter of 2021. Take note of the most anticipated comebacks and a few new projects!
Beermad, the craft beer market, returns to Madrid after several cancellations. The fair will be held at Escenario Puerta del Ángel (Casa de Campo) from October 9 to 12, and will feature up to 36 craft breweries from all over Spain. In total, more than 150 styles. The awards ceremony for the fourth edition of the CICA (International Craft Beer Competition), the first organized by Momentos Cerveceros, will also take place there.
However, the health protocol warns that it “does not allow the consumption of food or drinks at the bar.” Therefore, attendees must remain seated at the tables and benches provided by the organizers. Among other measures are the mandatory use of masks on the premises, hand-sanitizer stations, the use of compostable tableware, and signage to prevent crowding.
Later in the year, the Granada Beer Festival takes place on December 4 and 5 at the Armadilla Exhibition Center, located in the city that gives the event its name. Although the Andalusian festival has not yet published its COVID protocol, we do know that it will coincide with the first edition of the Mediterranean Beer Cup, the event’s in-house professional competition.
Meanwhile, from October 8 to 10, the Bilbao Bizkaia Beer festival, organized by La Salve and the Barcelona Beer Festival, will also take place. Likewise, we have the Cebat Beer Festival in Sabadell (Barcelona) and the 4th Beer Run, organized by the Cervesa del Montseny brewery on October 9.
As we can see, beer events are back. We’re once again toasting in person, while respecting safety measures. Beyond reduced capacities, beer lovers have a fantastic opportunity to rediscover the social side of their favorite drink. It’s up to all of us to act responsibly and enjoy with common sense.
