Gambrinus Fest 2026: artisan Christmas beers in Béthune (6th edition, dates to be confirmed)

In the heart of the Pas-de-Calais mining basin, Béthune dedicates a whole weekend to the region's favourite seasonal style: Christmas beer. The Gambrinus Fest, created in 2021 by Béthune-Bruay Tourism and the local association Les Amis de la Bière, returns for its expected sixth edition on 7-8 November 2026 at the Salle Olof Palme. Around twenty artisan breweries from the Hauts-de-France gather to pour their bières de Noël and winter specials weeks before they hit the shelves, making this one of the first places in France to taste the new vintage. The formula is resolutely accessible: free entry, a tasting pass at €7.50 including three pours and a reusable cup, folk concerts on Saturday evening and family-friendly animations on Sunday. It is a genuine northern French moment, halfway between a village fair and a craft beer festival, and an easy stop from Lille, Lens or Arras by regional train. Dates remain to be confirmed by the organiser. Check the official website for updates, and plan your beer trip with beBeer.