Hong Kong’s Central Harbourfront is once again gearing up to welcome throngs of visitors, this time for a two-day extravaganza titled “Better With Beer.” The event, set to take place on Friday and Saturday, is a product of collaboration between the organizers of the famed Clockenflap Music and Arts Festival and the Craft Beer Association of Hong Kong.
Clockenflap’s signature festival ambience from last year’s gathering at the same venue is still fresh in many minds, and with its return anticipated from December 1 to 3, Better With Beer emerges as a delightful prelude. A showcase of the city’s evolving beer culture, the festival boasts an impressive lineup of more than 150 beers from around 20 esteemed breweries and distributors. Some of the notable names include Gweilo, Young Master, BrewDog, Carbon Brews, and Yardley Brothers.
For beer enthusiasts, the proposition is irresistible: unlimited sampling of the vast array of beers on offer. While beer forms the festival’s nucleus, guests seeking other beverages aren’t left behind. A range of cocktails, wines, spirits, and soft drinks will also be available for purchase. To complement the drinking experience, live music, diverse food choices, and various outdoor entertainments will be at the heart of the festival’s attractions.
The Dai Dadi entertainment tent promises a musical feast, featuring celebrated Hong Kong bands like The Boogie Playboys, Fountain Collective, and Shumking Mansion. Additionally, DJ acts, including Crimes Against Pop, South Canton Soul Train, and MouseFX, are poised to ensure an electrifying ambiance.
Beyond music, Better With Beer offers an array of entertainment options. “The Playground” allows festival-goers to engage in classic outdoor games, such as giant aeroplane chess, Hong Kong-style hopscotch, and even a challenging beer crate bridge. The Dai Pai Dong tent, meanwhile, adds a unique flavor with its drag bingo hosted by the flamboyant Madame Mincemeat. This space will also witness lip-sync battles, air guitar competitions, comedy shows, and quizzes.
When it comes to satiating hunger pangs, reputable outlets such as KIN, Honbo, ENSO, Smoke & Barrel, and Aitch’s Biltong will be serving their delicacies. After indulging in food and drink, attendees can relax in the beer garden, furnished with upcycled material from the renowned denim brand Levi’s, which also backs prizes for various games and contests.
Jason Lowe, president of the Craft Beer Association of Hong Kong, expressed his excitement about the collaboration: “We aim to further Hongkongers’ love for craft beer and amplify its appreciation. Working with Clockenflap gives us that platform.”
Echoing this sentiment, Better With Beer event director Matt Jones added, “Hong Kong’s craft beer industry has grown significantly. The festival isn’t just about beer; it’s about celebrating home-grown talent in many forms.”
Ticket prices vary, with options available for single sessions, full-day passes, or two-day experiences. There’s also a special discount for groups, and night sessions are restricted to adults over 18. To ensure well-being, the festival has arranged free water stations and also offers low- and non-alcoholic beverages.
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