B-Fest returns to York Barbican for two August days of beer, cider, food and bands

Organised by the Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA) and York Barbican, the festival brings together 200 real ales and ciders across 40 hand pulls, rotated during the weekend, complemented by street food and live music by local bands.

"The beers on show will be fresh from judging in the North East SIBA Beer Competition, so this will be the very first time the public can enjoy these Yorkshire and North East award-winning beers all under one roof," says Barbican marketing officer Seb Santabarbara. "B-Fest, however, is not all about the beer. Fourteen bands offering a range of blues and folk music will play over the two days."

Musicians playing the Streamline Taxis-sponsored B-Stage will be: The Blackjacks, Huw Eddy and The Carnival; Bella & Polly; Alex Golisti; The Endeavours; Branded By Fire; King Courgette; Tuppeny Blue; Pete Godson; Lion Papers; Slack Habits; Rachel Croft; John Richardson and The Southern Wild.

Ian Fozard, acting chairman of SIBA and lead organiser of B-Fest, says: "York Barbican is a great venue and this year’s festival is going to be bigger and better. If you like beer, blues, folk and great food, don’t miss out and buy your tickets now."

Darren Moore, York Barbican's general manager, adds: "As the new general manager here, myself and the team are very much looking forward to hosting the second year of B-Fest. We love the atmosphere that accompanies festival events such as this and are proud to be working alongside SIBA to deliver a great weekend of entertainment for the people of York."

The B-Fest sessions will run from 6pm to 11.30pm on August 17; noon to 6pm and 6pm to 11.30pm on August 18. Tickets cost £10 per session at yorkbarbican.co.uk or in person from the Barbican box office or £12 on the door. Both prices will include a pint of beer or cider; B-Fest also is offering two free tickets for parties of ten of more. Pints cost £3 at each session.

Charles Hutchinson