The ever-popular Geelong Beer Festival has dropped its first announcement for its 2026 edition.
Held at Johnstone Park on Saturday, January 17, the festival runs from noon until 8pm, with more than 20 brewers, distillers and winemakers announced, a full program of live music and a selection of food vendors.
Bellarine Estate, Blackmans Brewery, Flowstate Brewing, Great Ocean Road Brewing Co and Little Creatures are among the local offerings, alongside well-known names such as Coopers, Kaiju and Mountain Goat and smaller producers including JKB Brewing and SURE Brewing.
Melbourne garage rock legends The Grogans headline the festival’s main stage, with blues rockers Smoke Stack Rhino and roots multi-instrumentalist Rhys Crimmin also on the bill.
The Sound Lounge will feature DJs, a dance comp and tunes from Andy Pobjoy and the Piano Bar crew, with more acts still to be announced.
Festival goers can also join masterclasses, enjoy guided tasting, attend industry forums and meet the people behind the beverages.
Tickets are now on sale, and with last year’s first release of tickets selling out quickly, festival director Kieran Blood suggested people book their spots early.
“Geelong Beer Festival is where great beer and good times collide,” Mr Blood said.
“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.
“It’s good for the region and good for the industry.”
Visit geelongbeerfestival.com.au for tickets and more information.
