The Midsummer Beer Happening, in Stonehaven, has unveiled the charities it will support with funds raised at this year’s event.
Drinkers at last year’s festival. Photographs: Barry Howie
The Happening is a celebration of the craft of brewing, along with great street food and musical entertainment. It will be held from 13th-15th June in a purpose-built marquee in Stonehaven’s Baird Park.
The event will be supporting more than 20 local charities and good causes. The main beneficiaries will be the town’s Carronhill School, Edenholme Care Home, and the Sea Cadets.
Also in the mix for support will be Stonehaven’s RNLI, the town’s famous Fireballs Ceremony, Scouts, the Mackie Rugby Youth programme, and Stonehaven Folk Festival.
“We know that thousands of people are keen to come along and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the Midsummer Beer Happening, and everyone involved in the event are keen to make sure it leaves more than just happy memories, but also a lasting legacy for Stonehaven,” said organiser Robert Lindsay.
“So we are delighted to be able to offer our support to such a range of charities and good causes who are involved in improving lives, from the very young who are just starting out in life to those enjoying their golden years. Each of the groups we are supporting do so much to make Stonehaven such a special place for those who live here.”
He added: “To date, the festival has raised £314,000 to go back into our community. Everyone involved in making The Happening happen is so proud of that — but we also know we couldn’t do it without the help of those who flock to the festival year after year.
“We never take that for granted and always strive to ensure our guests have a good time, while knowing they are doing good, too.”
This year will see more than 120 beers on offer from the best of Scottish breweries, plus two from Belgium. It will also see the return of the popular al fresco food court and a rich music strand with the cream of north-east talent, plus its iconic cycling Sportive.
“Once again, I cannot thank enough the army of volunteers who help every year. Without them there would be no Happening,” said Robert.
“And I would also like to thank our sponsors for this year, who have come on board to help us stage one of the most popular events in the North East calendar. They are Simpsons Malt, EnerQuip, The Bay Fish and Chips, Whittakers Engineering, NFU Mutual, and Raeburn Christie Clark and Wallace.”
