The North Leeds Charity Beer Festival is gearing up for another exciting edition this week. 

Organised by the Roundhay Rotary, this annual event takes place at the North Leeds cricket club and is anticipated to draw in beer enthusiasts, families, and entertainers alike, cementing its place as a highlight in the local social calendar.

Festival-goers will have the chance to sample over 40 locally sourced real ales and ciders, including alcohol-free, gluten-free, and vegan options. 

David Hawkin, Beer Festival co-founder and Rotary Club member, said: “In 2012, the North Leeds Charity Beer Festival was born, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Rotary Club of Roundhay and Sam Parker, a respected member of the British Guild of Beer Writers. The initial goal was simple: to introduce people to a variety of intriguing and unique beers crafted by Yorkshire’s micro and independent breweries.

“During this time the festival has evolved into a much-anticipated community event that goes beyond beer tasting. It’s now a vibrant charity fundraiser featuring food, drink, and live music, bringing together families for a fantastic cause.

“Over the past 11 years, we’ve had the pleasure of serving over 10,000 discerning drinkers with more than 60,000 glasses of beer. We’ve hosted 130 performances by local bands and artists, involving over 600 musicians. We cordially invite you to be a part of this remarkable journey. Join us on Friday, April 12th, and Saturday, April 13th. Together, let’s make a difference and raise a glass for The Rotary Club of Roundhay.”

Beyond its role as a celebration of beer, the beer festival has a significant charitable impact, with proceeds supporting various community projects championed by the Rotary Club of Roundhay. Past beneficiaries include CATCH Harehills, Roundhay Stroke Club, John Jamieson School, St Gemma’s and other organisations. Over the past eleven years it has generated more than £72,000 for local good causes. 

The festival promises two days’ worth of ales and entertainment, with a lineup featuring both returning favorites and new performers scheduled to grace the stage. Attendees are encouraged to stay updated on the full program via the festival’s website and social media channels.

Generous sponsors make the festival’s success possible, including headline sponsors Morley Glass and Glazing and Express in the Home, along with individual barrel sponsors.

Ian Short, Managing Director of Morley Glass, expressed his enthusiasm for supporting the festival’s charitable mission, stating, “We were delighted to be able to sponsor the North Leeds Charity Beer Festival. This is exactly the type of initiative we like to be involved with as it perfectly reflects our ethos of giving back to local communities.”

The festival kicks off at 5PM on Friday evening and continues from 12PM to 11PM on Saturday.

On Saturday, the afternoon session is family-friendly, featuring face painting, a safe play area for children, and child-friendly snacks available for purchase. There is also no charge for children who are accompanied by an adult. Additionally, child-friendly snacks and refreshments will be available for purchase, and furry companions are welcome to join in on the fun as the festival is dog-friendly.

Early booking is recommended, and tickets are available for purchase online at https://www.northleedscharitybeerfestival.co.uk/. You can also purchase tickets at the gate on the day of the event.

For more information or to get involved, please contact Richard Wharton on 08750379547, or email at northleedscharitybeerfestival@hotmail.co.uk.