Manchester Craft Brew Festival 2026

Plan your visit

Overview

The Manchester Craft Brew Festival 2026 is a unique celebration of craft beer, taking place at the Academy on July 24. From 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM, this festival promises an immersive experience for beer lovers. Unlike traditional beer festivals, this event focuses on showcasing a diverse range of craft brews, allowing attendees to explore various flavours and styles from local and national breweries.

With a vibrant atmosphere and a community spirit, the festival is designed to bring together beer enthusiasts in Manchester. The Academy, known for its excellent acoustics and lively events, provides the perfect backdrop for this gathering. Whether you're a seasoned craft beer aficionado or a curious newcomer, the festival offers something for everyone, with an array of tastings and opportunities to learn more about the brewing process.

Attendees can expect to sample a wide variety of beers, meet passionate brewers, and enjoy a lively social scene. The event is strictly for those aged 18 and over, creating a mature environment where guests can relax and enjoy their drinks responsibly. With earlybird tickets priced at £45, the festival is a fantastic value for a five-hour experience dedicated to craft beer.

The Manchester Craft Brew Festival is not just about the beer; it's about celebrating the culture surrounding craft brewing. The festival encourages a sense of community, inviting attendees to share their love for unique brews while enjoying the company of like-minded individuals. This event is a highlight on the Manchester calendar, drawing visitors from across the UK to experience the best of craft brewing.

Highlights

• Diverse range of craft beers from local breweries
• Engaging atmosphere with live music
• Opportunities to meet and chat with brewers
• Strictly 18+ for a mature environment
• Relaxed seating areas for socialising
• Educational talks on brewing processes
• Five-hour festival experience
• Earlybird tickets for great value

What to expect

At the Manchester Craft Brew Festival, visitors can look forward to an impressive lineup of craft beer stalls featuring local and national breweries. The atmosphere is set to be lively, with music and entertainment enhancing the experience. The festival encourages guests to engage with brewers, learn about their processes, and discover new favourite beers. Families and friends can enjoy the day together, making it a great outing for all.

The festival's layout allows for easy navigation between stalls, ensuring that attendees can sample a variety of brews without feeling rushed. The event is designed to be inclusive, with plenty of seating areas for relaxation and socialising. Whether you're there to sip and savour or to learn, the Manchester Craft Brew Festival offers an enjoyable day out for everyone.

Who it's for

The Manchester Craft Brew Festival is perfect for craft beer enthusiasts, couples looking for a fun day out, and groups of friends wanting to explore new flavours. Families are also welcome, making it a great outing for anyone interested in the vibrant craft beer scene.

Getting there

The Manchester Craft Brew Festival will take place at the Academy, located in the heart of Manchester. The venue is easily accessible via public transport, with several bus and tram stops nearby. For those travelling by train, Manchester Piccadilly Station is just a short walk away, making it convenient for visitors from outside the city. If you prefer to drive, there are parking facilities available, but it's advisable to arrive early to secure a spot.

The Academy is also wheelchair accessible, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the festival. If you have specific accessibility needs, it’s a good idea to check in advance with the venue to ensure a comfortable experience.

Planning tips

To make the most of your experience at the Manchester Craft Brew Festival, aim to arrive early. This will give you ample time to explore the stalls and sample a wide variety of beers. Tickets can be purchased from platforms like Ticketline.co.uk, Fixr.co, and Beer Fest Buddy, so be sure to secure yours in advance to avoid disappointment.

As the festival takes place in July, be prepared for warm weather. Dress comfortably and consider bringing a light jacket for the evening chill. It's also wise to check the official festival website for any updates or changes to the event details as the date approaches.

FAQ

What are the opening hours for the Manchester Craft Brew Festival?

The festival will open its doors at 1:00 PM and run until 6:00 PM on July 24, 2026.

Is the festival suitable for families?

Yes, families are welcome, but please note that the event is strictly for those aged 18 and over.

Where can I buy tickets for the festival?

Tickets are available through Ticketline.co.uk, Fixr.co, and Beer Fest Buddy. Earlybird tickets are priced at £45.

Is there parking available at the venue?

Yes, there are parking facilities near the Academy, but it’s recommended to arrive early to secure a space.

What should I bring to the festival?

Dress comfortably for the warm July weather, and consider bringing a light jacket for the evening. Also, ensure you have your ticket and ID for entry.

Can I bring my own food to the festival?

Typically, food from outside is not allowed at the festival, but there will be food stalls available on-site.

Will there be entertainment at the festival?

Yes, the festival will feature live music and entertainment to enhance the atmosphere.

Is the venue accessible for those with disabilities?

Yes, the Academy is wheelchair accessible. If you have specific accessibility needs, it’s best to check with the venue in advance.