Beer Festival Brings Community Spirit Back to Stonehaven This June
Local volunteers raise funds for nearly 20 causes with music, cycling and celebration.
The Midsummer Beer Happening returns to Stonehaven next month, and it’s not just about great beer, food and music. The popular three-day event will also support almost 20 charities and community groups across the area, with funds raised going directly to causes that make a difference locally.
Among the organisations set to benefit are the Stonehaven Sea Cadets, the Fireballs Ceremony, and the Friends of Kincardine Community Hospital. Other recipients include Stonehaven RNLI, the town’s Scouts and Guides, and Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance.
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Taking place from 12–14 June in a marquee at Baird Park, the festival is run entirely by volunteers. It has supported local causes every year since it began as the Stonehaven Real Ale Festival 16 years ago and has raised £375,000 for the community.
Supporting Those Who Support the Community
Festival manager Robert Lindsay said the event’s fundraising efforts are as important as its famous beer list. “We want the Happening to leave a legacy for Stonehaven. I can think of no better way to do that than by supporting those groups and organisations who just make life better for everyone,” he said.
Every pint pulled and ticket sold helps support these causes, from youth development to emergency services and vital healthcare support.
Beer, Music and a Community Ride
This year’s festival will offer over 120 beers from Scottish breweries, with two guest taps from Belgium. Alongside the drinks, visitors can expect an al fresco food court, live music from local artists and the return of the event’s signature cycling Sportive, a mass-participation ride for cyclists of all levels.
The Happening is powered by a large team of volunteers who begin planning almost as soon as the previous year’s event ends. “There truly is an army of them,” said Robert. “I can’t thank them enough for giving their time, energy and passion.”
Tickets and further information are available at msbh.co.uk. Whether you’re going for the beer, the music or just the sunshine, this year’s festival promises to be one to remember, while supporting the people who help keep Stonehaven’s community life thriving.
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