Lovers of craft brews can enjoy a weekend away in Canberra and take in one of Australia’s premier craft beer festivals while enjoying the national capital in its richest autumn colours.
Mercure Canberra has launched a special accommodation package for the 2026 Craft Beer and Cider Festival, which takes place on Saturday, 21 March in the grounds of the hotel and surrounding streets.
The ‘Beer Fest 2026’ package is available from $230 for two people for one night between 20 and 23 March and includes overnight accommodation at the 4-star Mercure Canberra, a 4-pack of award-winning Sydney Brewery beers, entry to the Festival, and breakfast for two. Additional nights are available from $170 per night, per room for two people (room only). Bookings: 02 6243 000 or via www.mercurecanberra.com.au.
Mercure Canberra combines heritage character with modern comforts. Opened in 1927, the hotel is set around an impressive internal courtyard and offers spacious grounds to relax. Superbly located in Braddon, the hotel is moments from the city centres’ shops, bars, restaurants and major attractions. The Mercure offers a variety of accommodation options, along with a gym, a restaurant, bistro, bar and landscaped gardens.
Entering its 19th year, the Festival is a local favourite showcasing an impressive array of craft brews, ciders and spirits in a festive outdoor atmosphere at the Mercure Canberra.
The exciting street-style event will showcase more than 40 local and interstate drinks exhibitors with up to 250 craft beers, ciders and spirits available for tasting, along with a wide range of local food providores and live entertainment from local bands and DJs.
The lineup will feature The Coastal Brewing Company, Cypher Brewing Co, Balter, Philter, BentSpoke Brewing, Wooden Axe Brewing, 4 Pines & Brookvale, Sydney Brewery, MXTology and Wheel Line Cider.
Food vendors will include the mobile pizza kitchen on wheels, Wild & Sour, with their signature slow-fermented dough topped with fresh, seasonal ingredients and flamed to perfection.
The Canberra Beer & Cider Festival is presented by Schwartz Events, which fully owns GABS (Greatest Australian Beer Spectapular), Australia’s leading beer festival organisers.
It is the ideal weekend to be visiting Canberra with a range of other events scheduled including Super Rugby, Canberra Comedy Festival, Canberra Balloon Spectacular, art shows and markets.
Visitors can also check out Canberra’s vibrant craft beer scene with visits to local breweries such as the well-established Bent Spoke Brewing Co and Capital Brewing Co as well as smaller brewers such as Wignall Brewery.
