A new free festival is coming to Ilfracombe this year, providing a weekend of fun for locals and tourists alike, while raising money for worthy causes in the Devon town.
Last week, Ilfracombe Round Table revealed they would not be staging their popular Birdman event in 2023, citing the growing costs and red tape as a factor in the decision. But while Birdman may be taking a rest this year, the volunteers are not, as plans for their newest event can finally be revealed.
Ilfracombe Beer Fest will take place in huge twin tipi tents, located right on the town’s picturesque sea front, during the spring bank holiday weekend. From Friday 26th to Monday 29th May, the green outside The Landmark Theatre will be a hive of activity for all ages.
Featuring more than 50 of the region’s best beers and ciders, the festival will also boast live music, fresh local street food, a cocktail bar, and even an undercover fire pit. The event is in partnership with The Landmark’s operators, Selladoor, who will provide even more food and drink options, plus children’s entertainment within their famous twin towers.
“While we’re disappointed not to be hosting Birdman this year, we are really excited about staging the Ilfracombe Beer Fest,” said event organiser Matt Child, of Ilfracombe Round Table. “It’s all about giving locals and visitors something to get excited about, drawing crowds to the town to give a boost to the local economy, and raising funds for good causes.
“There is a long history of hosting some legendary beer festivals in the town, which unfortunately have not been held for many years now. We hope our stunning tipi venue and other new additions will put a whole new twist on this much-loved event and attract a whole new audience to the town.”
Ilfracombe Round Table chairman, Joel Cooper, added: “There will be a really cosy, rustic feel at this new event. We’re talking long tables for socialising, intimate staging for top-notch musical talent, and even an indoor fire pit for fireside chats.
“We are optimistic about holding Birdman again in 2024, so please don’t think it is dead in the water, if you’ll pardon the pun! But we will create a similar festival feel at the Ilfracombe Beer Fest. We hope locals and visitors alike will come down and enjoy a pint or three.”
Ilfracombe Round Table is a registered charity, which will distribute all funds raised from the event to local charities and worthy causes. Matt said: “We rely on the goodwill and kindness of supportive local businesses to help put these events on. We are offering any local business the opportunity to sponsor a barrel at the beer festival. This will include four free pints, your logo on the barrel, and a thank you in our programme, as well as on the sponsors board at the event.
“This is a great way to become part of Ilfracombe Beer Fest, which looks set to be the biggest event in the town this year. We can’t wait!”
• To find out more about sponsorship, email Matt or call 07825 366649.
