BeerMad in Madrid returns in 2026 for free: more than 200 craft beers, music and tapas

The twelfth edition of the fair arrives with a significant change. Entry to the venue will be free, although tastings will require the official festival glass, which costs 3 euros. Three days, more than 200 wines, and the perfect excuse to extend summer without breaking the bank.

Going back to school doesn't have to mean being bored. September still offers pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities, and this festival is the perfect excuse to get together with friends over a good beer.

BeerMad Madrid 2026: dates, times and a free ticket

According to the organizers, the fair will be open from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM on Friday, September 25th. It will open at 11:00 AM on Saturday the 26th and close at 7:00 PM on Sunday the 27th. Throughout the three days, there will be tastings, workshops, food stalls, live music, and activities related to the world of craft beer. The schedule is designed to allow visitors to enjoy the event at a leisurely pace, perhaps returning on Saturday, and then finishing up with a beer-fueled after-dinner drink on Sunday.

The event is also child-friendly. Those under 18 can be accompanied by an adult, and there will be free children's entertainment. So BeerMad works as a family weekend plan in Madrid, not just a beer-drinking gathering.

More than 200 craft beers and 40 producers on the premises

The main attraction is the variety. The festival will bring together more than 200 types of beer brewed by some 40 craft brewers—a selection so vast that choosing will require taking your time. IPAs, sours, and many other styles will be available on tap throughout the venue. There are light lagers, intense hoppy lagers, and sour beers for adventurous palates.

The organization is once again focusing on Madrid's breweries, from those that have been with BeerMad since its early days to new projects. Among the names announced are Capaz, CCVK, The One, La Chula, La Caníbal, Oso Brewing, Cerveza Salvaje, La Vicalvarada, and Ska-P. Absolutely delicious.

A free-entry craft beer fair isn't just a cheap plan: it's the perfect excuse to discover small producers without leaving Madrid.

Brands like Selva-GR, Virtus, and Excosa will be arriving from other parts of Spain. International beers will also be available, including Boazona, Chouffe, Lervig, and Funky Fluid. Keep an eye out for hop-free alternatives: the artisanal meads from Beekinga in Valladolid and Decuria in Ávila are definitely worth a taste.

The international selection expands the showcase, designed for both seasoned enthusiasts and those simply wanting to discover new styles. You won't find an endless menu: the fun lies in trying different dishes little by little and comparing nuances.

Is it worth it? A perfect plan for drinks, tapas, and music

The short answer: yes. With free entry, the cost is limited to the official glass and whatever food or drinks you choose. It's an autumn plan that costs less than a set lunch menu and includes live music, tastings, workshops, and food stalls. Suitable for discerning foodies and those simply looking for a great weekend activity.

Furthermore, the fair comes before Oktoberfest, so it serves as a local appetizer. There's no need to book a table or spend money on transportation: the venue is in Arganzuela, Madrid, and the atmosphere is more like a neighborhood festival than a massive, local event.

The event also demonstrates why Madrid's craft beer scene is still going strong. In contrast to the big brands, small producers and styles with personality reign supreme here. And that tastes all the better in an open-air venue in Arganzuela.

Live music and food stalls complete the experience. Enjoying tapas between tastings is part of the plan, and many producers offer pairing suggestions alongside their taps. It's the perfect opportunity to ask questions at your leisure, get recommendations, and head home with a unique bottle. However, schedules and prices may vary, so it's best to check the festival's official channels before you go.

If you're new to craft beer, BeerMad is also a great place to start. There are producers willing to explain each style, guided tastings, and simple food pairings. And if you're already a seasoned beer enthusiast, the challenge is finding your favorite tap among more than 200 options.

🍽️ The foodie card

• 🏠 Location / Establishment: BeerMad Madrid 2026.
• 📍 Location: Arganzuela, Madrid.
• 🍴 Type of food / Specialty: Craft beer fair with tapas.
• 💰 Average price: Free entry; official glass 3 euros.