After a year’s absence, one of Rotherham’s most beloved beer traditions is making a welcome return to Magna this spring.
A familiar fixture on the local calendar since the early 1990s, Rotherham Real Ale and Music Festival is coming baa’ck this year with a fresh approach that feels very much like a step back in time.
Following last year’s break – when CAMRA’s Winter Beer Festival temporarily took its place – organisers have opted to revive the event in a simpler, more stripped-back format that echoes the spirit of the early grassroots festivals at Oakwood School that made it such a firm favourite in the first place.
Running from Wednesday 22nd to Saturday 25th April, this year’s beer festival is different in that it will be held entirely within Magna’s Big Hall. There will be a central bar island with stalls and smaller bars from individual breweries around the edge of the room.
By bringing everything together under one roof, they hope to recreate the sociable, intimate atmosphere of the original festivals – where conversations flowed as freely as the beer, friends bumped into each other at every turn and the focus was firmly on good company and great drinks rather than sprawling layouts.
And speaking of drinks, there will be no shortage of choice.
Festival-goers can expect over 100 real ales from Yorkshire breweries such as Acorn, Chantry and Timothy Taylor, showcasing everything from classic bitters to bold stouts and light and fruity blonde beers.
Alongside the ale, there will also be a wide range of ciders, prosecco, wine and gin ensuring there’s something for every taste. For those choosing not to drink alcohol, a dedicated non-alcoholic selection will also be available, making the event inclusive for all.
But this festival has never been just about what’s in the glass.
Live music from local performers has always been a key part of the experience and this year is no different. Throughout the event, talented musicians will provide the soundtrack on the main stage, including Funky Business, Richard Ford, Handsome Dan and the Mavericks, Maltby Miners Welfare Band and The Leathernecks.
There will also be stalls, from handmade chocolates to CAMRA’s popular tombola, bar games, and tasty food options from Magna’s chefs.
The festival’s much-loved sheep mascot Baa’sil will once again make an appearance, with this year having a snooker theme to coincide with the World Snooker Championships. Organisers have teamed up with Rotherham-based charity Snooker4All to give visitors the chance to test their skills on the baize.
Adding to the sense of occasion, this year’s festival also takes place over St George’s Day, making it an ideal way to celebrate all things English.
And by the time of the festival, the new tram-train stop and park and ride at Magna will be open so you don’t have to worry about getting home. There will be extra services running until 12am to Parkgate, Rotherham Central, Meadowhall and Sheffield.
As ever, all proceeds from the event will go to local charities which this year are Rotherham Cancer Care and the Magna Trust
So gather your friends, loosen your flock, and get ready – because Rotherham Real Ale and Music Festival is very much baa’ck.
When and where:
Wednesday 22nd to Saturday 25th April
Wednesday preview evening £5 – 6pm-9pm
Thursday (St George’s Day) 6pm-11pm £10
Friday & Saturday 12pm-11pm* £15
*Under 18s permitted until 6pm
Season Ticket (entry to all days) £25
Buy online or pay on the door
Find out more or book tickets online here.
