By Ahmad Yassir, Vermont Country Magazine.
Vermont has long been a haven for craft beer enthusiasts, and Southern Vermont proudly upholds this legacy with two major brewing festivals in May. From the homebrew ingenuity on display in Bennington to the nationally recognized breweries featured in Brattleboro, these festivals highlight the region’s passion for brewing and community celebration.
Southern Vermont Homebrew Festival – May 3, Bennington, VT
For nearly a decade, the Southern Vermont Homebrew Festival has been a must-attend event for beer aficionados and curious tasters alike. This festival isn’t just about sampling beer—it’s a showcase of over 40 regional homebrewers, some of whom have gone on to establish professional breweries. Held in a lively outdoor setting, the festival exudes a street fair atmosphere, complete with food trucks, artisan vendors, and a vibrant crowd.
Attendees can expect more than 100 unique beverages, including beers, ciders, wines, and meads. The variety is unmatched, featuring styles like sours, pastry stouts, NEIPAs, pilsners, and fruited meads. Unlike most commercial beer festivals, the homebrew festival offers an experience like no other—many of these drinks are exclusive to the event and can’t be found anywhere else.
Beyond beverages, every year, the festival introduces a unique addition to homebrew craft beer. One year it was Wings, another year a chili competition, and this upcoming year will feature a Street Festival vibe with Live Music and Food Trucks.
Brattleboro Brewers Festival – May 31, Guilford, VT
Later in the month, beer lovers can head east to the Brattleboro Brewers Festival, a long-running event that has grown into one of the most respected craft beer gatherings in the region. Established in 2010, this festival has expanded from a local tasting event to a tri-state celebration featuring brewers that have landed on top ten craft beer lists nationally and globally.
Set against the scenic backdrop of the Guilford Fairgrounds, just minutes from Brattleboro, the festival welcomes attendees to an afternoon filled with world-class beer, live music, and outdoor games. Festival-goers will have the chance to sample a diverse selection of craft beers and ciders while casting their vote for the coveted 2025 People’s Choice Winner.
Partial proceeds from the festival support local charities, reinforcing the community-driven spirit of the event. The food and craft vendors offer a taste of New England’s best specialty goods, while live music from local favorite Groove Prophet keeps the energy high. And for those who enjoy a little friendly competition, the festival hosts traditional yard games like cornhole and giant Jenga, alongside unique contests like a Keg Toss.
A Month of Craft Beer Celebration in Southern Vermont
These two festivals offer something for every beer lover, whether you prefer the creative and experimental nature of homebrewing or the refined craftsmanship of established breweries. What unites them is Vermont’s deep-rooted passion for craft beer and community.
Whether you’re looking to sip exclusive small-batch homebrews or sample award-winning beers from renowned brewers, May in Southern Vermont is the place to be. Get your tickets early—both events are expected to sell out—and raise a glass to the thriving craft beer culture of the Green Mountain State!
