UPDATE: According to an article in La Nación, Beerfest has been postponed, due to licensing issues.
It’s no secret: Costa Rica has become very passionate about its high-end beer consumption, Along with St. Patrick’s Day and Oktoberfest, and 2015’s Beerfest has been one of the most hotly anticipated events of the year so far. This weekend’s Beerfest will reflect that ballooning popularity, taking place in La Sabana Park to accommodate the thousands of anticipated visitors.
In most ways, Beerfest 2015 will echo similar festivals – tents, displays, and ever-pouring taps – but you can expect everything to be large-scale. Eighteen different breweries will present 50 different types of beer. Performers include Las Tortugas, Garbanzos, Diésel, Mumble Riot, Infibeat, and Bambui.
This has been a good year for the Costa Rican beer scene: Puntarenas-based Perro Vida celebrated its first anniversary, Nicoya-based La Selva arrived in San José, and the Cervecería Nacional started crafting its own high-quality brews, such as Domingo 7. Beerfest is a smashing good time for visitors, but it is also a chance for brewers to showcase their work and network with local businesses.
While Escazú has offered a clean, upscale venue for previous beer events, this year’s more central location should make it easier to hop a bus or taxi. Remember, these beers are powerful stuff.
Beerfest takes place March 7 in La Sabana Park. ₡15,000 ($30). Info: Event Facebook page.
