Geelong Beer Festival pours back into Johnstone Park

AUSTRALIAN brewers, distillers and winemakers will be on full display at Johnstone Park this month when the Geelong Beer Festival returns on January 17.

More than just beer, the one-day showcase brings together cideries, distilleries, cocktail specialists, entertainers and food vendors for a full-day festival experience.

The annual event will feature new releases, pairings, masterclasses, curated activities and live music, offering plenty to explore beyond the tasting tents.

Festival director Kieran Blood said the festival had become a significant platform for independent producers to connect directly with consumers.

“It’s relaxed and welcoming, but it’s also a serious platform for independent producers, new releases, collaborations and face-to-face with the people behind the products,” he said.

More than 5,000 people are expected to pass through the gates next week, with festivalgoers able to sample offerings from well-known local producers including Blackmans Brewery, Flowstate Brewing and Little Creatures.

They will be joined by a broader lineup featuring Casa Spirits and Cocktails, Mountain Goat Beer, Stomping Ground, White Rabbit, Murray Towns Brewing Co and others from across the country.

A range of food options will be available throughout the day, including loaded pizzas, hand-smashed burgers and pillowy bao.

Attendees will also be able to take part in masterclasses, with guided tastings, blind pairings and meet-the-maker sessions on offer.

Live entertainment will be a key feature, with The Grogans headlining the main stage alongside Smoke Stack Rhino and Rhys Crimmin, while the comedy program will feature Dave O’Neil, Ivan Aristeguieta and He Huang, with Gavin Baskerville hosting.

With interstate visitors expected and tickets selling out last year, organisers are encouraging people to book early.

For more information, visit geelongbeerfestival.com.au