2026 Old Town Beer & Cider Festival set to be biggest yet

It will run from Thursday 7th to Sunday 10 May 2026. 
This year’s event, aptly named the Centurion Edition, will be the largest in the festival’s history, featuring a selection of 100 beers and ciders.
Held across Christ Church, the Community Centre, and surrounding grounds on Cricklade Street, the four-day festival promises a vibrant programme of entertainment, community engagement and fundraising, with something for all ages to enjoy.
The festival is made possible thanks to the generous support of all its many sponsors, and especially its main sponsors, Gel Studios and DSNY Wealth Planning, whose backing helps ensure the event continues to grow year on year while supporting important community causes.
This year also marks the beginning of an exciting new three-year partnership with Guardians Group, who have donated a state-of-the-art digital totem display. 
This new addition will support Christ Church and the festival’s commitment to sustainability by significantly reducing the need for printed posters and promotional materials, helping to minimise environmental impact while enhancing the visitor experience.
The festival opens on Thursday evening with a headline Comedy Night in partnership with Swindon Old Town Comedy Club, featuring an award-winning line-up led by Esther Manito, known for appearances on Live at the Apollo (BBC One) and Comedy Central Live and Chortle Awards Best Headliner 2026. 
Supporting acts include Sam Day and Alex Farrow, with hosting by. local favourite Sam Michael.
On Friday afternoon, the festival introduces an exciting new collaboration with the Swindon Festival of Literature: Brews & Beats – Tasting Notes: The Art & Science of Pairing Beer and Music. 
Hosted by acclaimed author and Sunday Times beer columnist Pete Brown, the session will explore the sensory relationship between sound and taste through guided beer tastings paired with music.
The main festival sessions run from Friday evening through Saturday, showcasing the full Centurion range. Saturday evening will once again feature live music, headlined by the ever-popular ukulele rock band What The Pluck, alongside local acts The Saga Louts and Splat The Rat.
The festival concludes on Sunday with a brand-new, family-friendly event: 100 Hits Family Music Bingo, offering a fun and inclusive finale filled with music, games, and prizes.
As in previous years, the festival will raise funds for important local and charitable causes, including Swindon Town Football Club Community Foundation, Sepsis Research FEAT, and the ongoing upkeep of Christ Church and its Community Centre.
Tickets for all sessions are on sale and expected to sell quickly. Each ticket includes festival entry, a commemorative glass, and selected refreshments depending on the session. 
A variety of hot food options will be available throughout the event.Festival organisers note that while approximately 100 beers and ciders will be available at the start, popular selections may sell out over the course of the weekend, part of a sustainability-focused approach to minimise waste.
Chris Smith, Site Operations Manager at Christ Church Swindon and event organiser, said: “This year’s Centurion Edition is our biggest and boldest festival yet, with 100 beers and ciders on offer - our widest range ever. We’ve really pushed the boat out, and we can’t wait for peopleto discover new favourites across the weekend.
“It’s not just about the drinks though — it’s about creating something unique for the town. From headline comedy and live music to our exciting new partnership with the Swindon Festival of Literature for the Brews & Beats beer and music experience, this year’s programme has something for everyone. 
"It’s shaping up to be our most vibrant festival yet.”
The festival's website is https://oldtownbeerfestival.com/
People can also follow the beer festival on social media at https://linktr.ee/oldtownbeerfestival.com and subscribe to the Beer Festival Brewsletter at http://eepurl.com/iqptr6
 

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