The Christmas craft beer festival in Béthune
Created in 2021, Gambrinus Fest is the annual gathering for craft beer lovers in Béthune. Organized by Béthune-Bruay Tourisme and the association Les Amis de la Bière, this festival celebrates Christmas beer every November with a selection of around twenty regional craft breweries. Tastings, exchanges with brewers, exhibitions, and folk concerts punctuate two days of conviviality at the Salle Olof Palme, in the brewing tradition of Northern France.
Since 2021, Gambrinus Fest has established itself in Béthune's festive calendar as the unmissable event for craft beer enthusiasts. Named in reference to Gambrinus, the legendary king of beer in Flemish tradition, this festival highlights the expertise of craft brewers from Northern France and beyond.
Each edition brings together around twenty craft breweries, mainly regional, presenting their creations, especially their Christmas beers. Visitors can discover a wide variety of brewing styles: blondes, ambers, browns, IPAs, stouts, Christmas spiced beers, and many more. Each brewer is present at their stand to interact with the public, explain their production methods, and share their passion.
A tasting pass is offered at the entrance, including three tastings and a reusable ecocup. This system allows visitors to discover beers at their own pace, while promoting responsible consumption and an eco-friendly approach.
Gambrinus Fest is more than just tasting. The program includes:
Béthune, self-proclaimed regional capital of beer, is the ideal location to host this festival. The Hauts-de-France region boasts over 200 craft breweries, heirs to a centuries-old brewing tradition. Gambrinus Fest contributes to valuing this living heritage and introducing the public to the richness and diversity of local craft beers.
The 6th edition of Gambrinus Fest is scheduled for November 2026 at the Salle Olof Palme in Béthune. Around twenty craft breweries, concerts, and Christmas beer tastings are on the program.
Gambrinus Fest returns for its 6th edition in November 2026. The detailed program and the list of participating breweries will be announced in the fall of 2026.
Gambrinus Fest takes place at the Salle Olof Palme, in Béthune.
The festival traditionally takes place on the second weekend of November. Saturday from 2 PM to 7 PM (folk concert from 7 PM to 9 PM), Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM.
Admission is free. A tasting pass for €7.50 includes three tastings and an ecocup.
By Car: Béthune is accessible via the A26 motorway (exit 6). Free parking near the venue.
By Train: Béthune station is served by TER Hauts-de-France from Lille, Lens, and Arras.
Béthune-Bruay Tourisme: +33 (0)3 21 52 50 00 / [email protected]
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Salle Olof Palme
Salle Olof Palme, 62400 Béthune