These days there’s so much happening in the South African beer world that it can be tough to keep up, so here’s a rundown of some of the events happening as spring springs – plus a bit of beer news while I’m at it.
Western Cape
September 13th-16th – Bierfest, Newlands Brewery, Cape Town
Back for a second year is SA’s answer to Oktoberfest, with an oompah band, girls dressed in dirndl, sausages galore and a trio of speciality beers brewed by SAB. Tickets R85.
September 28th – We Love Real Beer, Old Biscuit Mill, Cape Town
A streamlined version of the Cape’s homage to craft beer returns, with ales and lagers from more than 20 breweries from across the country. Tickets R75, includes a glass.
November 23rd-25th – Cape Town Festival of Beer, Hamilton’s Rugby Club, Cape Town
South Africa’s largest beer festival is bigger than ever this year, with kids’ play areas, live music, loads of food and quite a bit of beer as well. In fact there will be more than 150 beers from over 40 breweries – so who’s going to rise to the challenge of tasting them all this year? Tickets from R80 (book early for discounts).
Gauteng
5th-7th October – African Shebeen Beer Festival, Innesfree Park, Sandton
A new festival with an ambitious package on offer, including an open bar and food in the rather pricey ticket cost. The random and intriguing theme is “Rhino Quote/Playboy Bunny”…?!?!! R500 – includes food, beer and a glass; early bird discounts available.
11th-14th October – Bierfest, Montecasino, Johannesburg
The Bierfest hits Jozi for four days, with its Oktoberfest-inspired entertainment, German-themed food and three beers based on German classics. Tickets R100; buy early to book a table.
13th October – Jozi Craft Beer Fest, Marks Park, Judith Street, Emmerentia
After the roaring success of the debut event earlier this year, Jozi Craft Beer Fest is back with more than 20 breweries, more food, more live music and more shade to enjoy all of the above in! Tickets R100 in advance, includes a glass (R120 at the door).
North West
27th October – Brauhaus Oktoberfest, Brauhaus am Damm,near Rustenburg
Where better to celebrate Oktoberfest than at picturesque brewery with authentic German beer? Keep an eye on their website for further info on the event.
KwaZulu-Natal
16th September – Beer and Boerie Festival, Shongweni Farmers Market, Hillcrest
Six breweries – including two that have very recently launched – and four boerewors-makers will be peddling their wares at this event, which is set to become an annual party. Tickets R50, including a beer tasting glass for the first 1500 people.
29th-30th September – Pecanwood Oktoberfest, Pecanwood Wedding & Conference Venue, KZN Midands
The third annual Pecanwood Oktoberfest will feature more than 20 beers, German cuisine, games, live music and free camping. Tickets R100
27th October – Launch party, Shongweni Brewery, Shongweni Valley
Shongweni, home of Robson’s beers, has changed hands and moved 2km down the road. The official re-launch will feature live music, food and of course lots of beer. Entry R20 per car entry.
15th-18th November – Bierfest, Suncoast Casino, Durban
This year Durban gets its own Oktoberfest-style celebration as well, with games, beer, more sausage than you can shake a stick at and hopefully some buxom wenches to serve it all. Tickets R70
Eastern Cape
27th October – Jikeleza Wild Coast October Beer Festival, Areena Resorts
It’s good to see virtually every province getting in on the beer-fest action. This small festival will feature four craft brews as well as garagiste wine. Accommodation is available.
Free State
20th October – Oktoberfest, The Dog and Fig Brewery, Parys
This small brewery has been hosting an Oktoberfest in some form since 2004 – look out for details on their Facebook page or follow them on Twitter.
Beer news
Boston Breweries have launched a dedicated tap room at the Cape Quarter on Somerset Road in Cape Town. The Tasting Room is currently open to coincide with the Village Market (Wed/Sun 10am- 3pm). All of Boston’s beers are available both on tap and in bottles. A taster tray featuring all of Boston’s beers is R45.
Darling Brew are about to add a new beer to their collection – look out for Silver Back, a rather intriguing-sounding ‘Black Witbier’ due to hit the shelves soon.
De Garve Brewery in Valderbijlpark, Gauteng, is also launching a new beer. The Naughty Walloon, a Belgian style Saison with orange zest and cinnamon. Look out for it at the brewery and selected events from October.
