Derby Heritage Beer Festival made a triumphant return to the city after a four-year hiatus, attracting a crowd of over 300 attendees on its opening night at the Museum of Making. The festival, which offers a selection of over 200 beers, real ales, ciders, and perries from both local and international breweries, aims to celebrate the best of Derbyshire’s brewing heritage.
Heather Knibbs, the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) publicity officer, expressed her excitement at the festival’s comeback, highlighting the positive feedback received from attendees. The event’s revival was a result of challenges faced during the Covid-19 lockdowns and the search for a suitable venue that could accommodate the festival’s size and financial needs.
After a long search, CAMRA found a partnership with Derby Museums, which provided the festival with a spacious venue at no cost, allowing for a profit-sharing agreement. Knibbs emphasized the importance of this collaboration and expressed hopes for a continued partnership in the future.
The atmosphere at the festival was filled with joy and excitement as attendees savored the variety of beverages on offer, making the long-awaited return of the Derby Heritage Beer Festival a resounding success. The festival’s organizers were thrilled to see the community come together to celebrate and support local breweries.
In addition to the wide selection of drinks available, the festival also featured live music, food vendors, and interactive activities, adding to the overall festive ambiance. The success of the event showcased the resilience and spirit of the Derby community, who eagerly embraced the return of this beloved tradition.
As the festival continues to grow and evolve, organizers are optimistic about its future and are committed to providing a platform for local breweries to showcase their craft. The support and enthusiasm from attendees have solidified the festival’s place as a staple event in Derby’s cultural calendar, with hopes for many more successful editions in the years to come.