Catherine Louise TurnerThe historic village of Barwick in Elmet is preparing to welcome back its most anticipated fundraising event of the season, with organisers locking in the official date for the Barwick Beer Festival.
The popular single-day celebration will take over Barwick Village Hall on Chapel Lane on Saturday, September 12, 2026. Doors are set to open at 12:30 PM, sparking what is expected to be a massive turnout of ale enthusiasts, families, and residents from across the region.
Funding the Famous Maypole
While the festival promises an extensive selection of craft beers, ciders, wines, and gins, its primary purpose is deeply rooted in local heritage. All proceeds from the ticket sales, barrel sponsorships, and glass purchases go directly back into the community, functioning as a vital financial pipeline for the Barwick in Elmet Maypole Trust.
Money raised from the event ensures the long-term survival of the village’s world-famous, triennial Maypole Festival, keeping a centuries-old Yorkshire tradition thriving for future generations.
Music, Dance, and Local Support
In a highly anticipated announcement, the Beer Festival Committee confirmed the return of the Leeds Morris Men. After being missed at the previous event, the traditional dance troupe is scheduled to perform live, with organisers jokingly warning that “audience participation is definitely compulsory”.
The scale of the festival relies heavily on community backing. Organisers have opened up local sponsorship opportunities starting at just £60, appealing to nearby businesses and families to sponsor everything from individual beer barrels to live entertainment and event amenities.
“We honestly couldn’t put on this event if it wasn’t for our volunteers,” the Committee stated in an update shared by the Barwick in Elmet & Scholes Parish Council. Voluntarism is open to all ages, with the committee operating a community WhatsApp coordination group to manage tasks leading up to, during, and after the event.
Ticket Information
For just £12 with an Early Bird Tickets (while available) – your ticket includes:
- Entry into the festival
- A FREE commemorative festive glass
- 4 beer tokens
How to get your tickets:
Account Name: Barwick Beer Festival
Sort Code: 60-14-34
Account Number: 58344780
Please use your name as the payment reference number and then email barwickbftickets@gmail.com confirming:
- Payment has been made
- The number of adult tickets you require
- The number of FREE children’s tickets you require
On the door tickets: £15
With car parking designated at the nearby Jack Heaps Field, locals are advised to keep an eye on official notice boards and social updates as the village counts down to its biggest social event of the autumn.
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