Beer Festivals 2010

Like many beer drinkers I like a good beer festival or two, for example the dramatically titled Great Japan Beer Festival which is held in Yokohama, Osaka and Tokyo every year, so when HolidayCheck (www.holidaycheck.co.uk) recently sent me a press release about their favourite beer festivals of 2010, I thought I might aswell share it here.

I actually discovered that Durham (in the UK), where half my family are from, actually has a beer festival I knew nothing about! (I’d also recommend a visit to Durham as it’s a beautiful city with a very impressive Cathedral and University, and very friendly people).

Some of them, like the Durham festival have already been and gone, but there are still a few left in September and October, or you could always plan ahead for next year.

Anyway, so here’s HolidayChecks list of recommended beer festivals…

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The Bruges Beer Festival

This beautifully preserved historic city, named a World Heritage site by UNESCO, offers more than just beautiful sights. With the highest concentration of specialist beer bars in Belgium, it would be a great year-round city break for any beer drinker. However visitors on the 11th and 12th of September will get an extra special treat! The annual Bruges beer festival is held in and around the Halletoren, one of Bruges’ most famous landmarks.

Oktoberfest – Munich

Arguably the most famous beer festival, Oktoberfest has been imitated all over the world. However for the full experience a trip to the Munich Oktoberfest is a must, especially as this year marks the 200 year anniversary of the first Oktoberfest. Although called the Oktoberfest, the festival actually takes place from the 18th of September to the 4th of October. Along with the traditional Oktoberfest activities enjoyed in the specially erected tents, visitors can have a go on one of the spectacular rides. This year’s newest addition, “The Tower” is a playground full of excitement. Climb to the top of “The Tower” to get an amazing view of the Oktoberfest and the city of Munich below.

Japan Beer Festival – Yokohama

For true beer aficionados who want something a little out of the ordinary, a trip to Japan’s Beer Festival in Yokohama will surely be an impressive travel tale. All beer is included in the entry price, so visitors have the opportunity to try as many different international brands and beers from smaller specialist Japanese breweries as they can handle. After all that beer, a comfy bed for the night is vital! HolidayChecker Rainer recommends the Hotel InterContinental Grand Yokohama for its proximity to the city.

Durham Beer Festival – England

Celebrate what separates English beer from European beer! Drink real ales at the Durham Beer Festival from the 2nd to the 4th of August. This small beer festival is held in a place not short of beer enthusiasts, Durham University’s Student Union. Whilst in Durham, take advantage of the beautiful surroundings in the city itself or travel just a little further to the North East’s stunning coastline. Visitors can even stay in a castle on their visit. The Lumley Castle hotel is recommended by 100% of HolidayCheckers for its “authentic and elegant style”.

San Diego Beer Festival

The 16th annual San Diego Beer festival will take place on the 10th of September this year. Their aim is to bring together 6,000 beer lovers to enjoy live music sets and sample beers from 75 different breweries. The Event is run by a non-profit organisation and all profits from ticket sales go to support cancer charities in the city. Remember that the legal drinking age in America is 21, so photo ID is necessary to enjoy this adults-only event.

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I’d love to hear if you’ve been to any of these. Would you also recommend them?

Related posts on MoIppai

• Great Japan Beer Festival 2010
• Great Japan Beer Festival 2009
• World Cup 2010 Themed Kirin Beer
• Great Japan Beer Festival 2009 Pt 2