Overview
Sometimes, the simplest ideas are the best. So back in 2022, when Range Brewing's Gerard Martin and Matt McIver decided to pair independent beers with a DJ-spun soundtrack at a new Brisbane festival, it wasn't a complicated concept — but it was a hit. Two years later, that event is returning for its third year, with Juicy once again headed to Brisbane's Fortitude Music Hall.
The setup worked a treat the first time, then the second, and now will keep doing so again in 2024. On Saturday, March 16, across two heaving sessions under the Valley Mall venue's chandeliers, the booze will be flowing from a range of breweries. Bites to eat and the talents on the deck have been carefully curated as well.
This time, Brisbane's own Range (of course), Working Title and Hohly Water are on the beer list, alongside GABS 2022 and 2023 winner Mountain Culture, Bracket, Wildflower, Future and Kicks from New South Wales. You can also look forward to sips from Rocky Ridge, Hop Nation, Garage Project, Fox Friday, Shape Shifter, Found and Banks, plus Finback from the US.
Here's how it works: across two slots — from 12–4pm and an evening one from 6–10pm — attendees will get their glass, then start enjoying their way through all the brews on offer, all without needing to worry about paying for drinks as you go. That's one of Juicy's big drawcards. Inspired by events overseas, Martin and McIver created a beer fest where your ticket covers everything, including what you're tasting.
Taking care of 2024's music are Hol Hibbo and Aunty STAN for the afternoon session, both from Fortitude Valley's QUIVR DJs. Come evening, Ben Chiu and ELJAE will do the honours.
And to help line the stomach, Southside will serve up its Asian cuisine, Zero Fox will bring its range of Japanese and Korean dishes, and Baja will take care of the Mexican bites.
Juicy Beer Festival takes place on Saturday, March 16, 2024. For more information or to buy tickets, head to the fest's website.
Images: Axis Productions.