Sheffield University Student Union welcomed the annual return of the Beer and Cider Festival for 2026 last weekend.
The event took place from Friday 1 May – Sunday 3 May at Bar One, with a wide selection of otherwise rare cask ales, lagers and fruity ciders on offer. The event was open to all, with children allowed until 8pm.
Whilst the Festival was open to the public, the event was mostly dominated by students enjoying the good weather.
With exam season just around the corner, biomedical science student Polly Lear called the festival “beautifully timed”.
She said: “It’s been real good. The sun is out. The beers are flowing. Affordable.
“Exams are getting closer and closer, so this is a really needed break.”
The event began at 2pm every day, with live music and DJs appearing from 4pm. The acts ranged from DJ Ollie B’s repertoire of PopTarts staples to Music Player Society Big Band performing jazz standards.
For 2025 freshers, this was their first experience of the Festival. English and history student Lara Henderson found the festivities “brilliant”.
She said: “It’s great to see so many different beers and it’s really good talk to so many different people. Also in the home of our Student Union which is really the perfect venue.
“I will definitely be returning next year.”
Over 150 beers and ciders were available, coming from over 65 of the world’s best breweries. Most beverages on offer were otherwise unavailable at Bar One, making the festival extra special for Sheffield beer fans.
Sheffield University second-year student Joe Callow said: “I think it’s exciting that they bring in alternative beers to a festival for uni life and make it slightly more affordable. My personal favourite beer today was the Piña Colada Cider because it was quite different.”
The festival also catered to those wishing to partake in the fun without drinking, as street food was available throughout the day, including hot dogs and crepes.
Beer and Cider Festival will return in Summer 2027, with the dates yet to be announced.
