Carmarthenshire Beer and Cider Festival Celebrates 30th Anniversary at St Peter's Civic Hall

Real ale enthusiasts and cider aficionados have plenty of reason to celebrate this autumn, as the beloved Carmarthenshire Beer and Cider Festival marks its milestone 30th anniversary. Hosted once again at the historic St Peter's Civic Hall in the heart of Carmarthen, the three-day festival returns this October to showcase the finest brewing and cider-making talent from across Wales and beyond.

Organised by dedicated volunteers from the Carmarthenshire branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), the festival has grown from humble beginnings into one of south-west Wales' premier celebrations of independent brewing.

Three Decades of Craft and Community

Reaching thirty years is a remarkable achievement for any community gathering, particularly in an era of shifting pub cultures. Since its inaugural pull in the mid-1990s, the festival has championed independent microbreweries, farmhouse cider orchards, and heritage drink styles.

To honour the 30th anniversary, organizers are curating an expanded line-up featuring special anniversary collaboration brews, festival exclusives, and returning vintage favourites that have delighted patrons over the past three decades.

What to Expect at the 2024 Festival

Visitors passing under the portico of St Peter's Civic Hall will discover a bustling hall packed with variety, warmth, and good company:

• Over 40 Cask Real Ales: A comprehensive range spanning crisp pilsners and hoppy Welsh pale ales to rich autumnal stouts, porters, and barley wines.
• Traditional Ciders and Perries: Sourced directly from independent orchards across Carmarthenshire, the Tywi Valley, and the Welsh borders.
• Commemorative 30th Anniversary Glassware: Every attendee receives a souvenir half-pint tumbler featuring bespoke anniversary artwork, alongside a festival tasting guide.
• Hearty Local Catering: Sustenance provided by regional food vendors, offering everything from artisan hot pies to Welsh cheese platters.
• Live Entertainment: Relaxed acoustic sessions on Friday and Saturday evening, providing a cheerful backdrop without drowning out conversation.

Celebrating Carmarthenshire's Local Producers

While the festival draws acclaimed casks from England and Scotland, the true stars of the pumps remain Welsh breweries and cider mills. Carmarthenshire boasts a rich landscape of producers who rely on pure local spring water and heritage apple varieties. The festival provides a vital platform for micro-producers to introduce limited runs and seasonal recipes directly to appreciative drinkers.

CAMRA members will also be on hand throughout the weekend to provide tasting recommendations, cellar tips, and information on national campaigns supporting British independent pubs.

Practical Information for Visitors

• Location: St Peter's Civic Hall, Nott Square, Carmarthen, SA31 1PG.
• Getting There: The venue is an easy 10-minute walk from Carmarthen railway station and close to main bus routes, making public transport the ideal travel option.
• Admission: Entry tokens and commemorative glasses are available on the door. CAMRA members receive discounted entry upon presentation of a valid membership card.

Whether you are a seasoned cask connoisseur seeking a rare vintage or simply keen to support local craft producers in a welcoming atmosphere, make sure to raise a toast to 30 years of festive community spirit in Carmarthen this October.