The UK is set for a party summer with a number of events including the Queen's jubilee celebrations, as well as all the big festivals set to take place amid soaring temperatures. For the connoisseur of alcohol free IPA there are several specialised events to check out as well.
In Brighton there is the Mindful Drinking festival, which is due to take place the weekend of July 9th and 10th. This event will be taking place at the the Open Market, by the seaside, and will showcase over 40 low and non alcoholic beverages. With free entry to this festival it is for sure an absolute bargain for those who like their pale ales.
During Jubilee weekend itself there is the Big Retreat, scheduled for June 3rd to 6th in Lawrenny, Pembrokeshire. Now in its fifth year, this particular festival focuses on mindfulness and replenishing the health and well being of those attending. As a fun bonus, '90s rockers Reef and Toploader are also due to perform.
There is another event in July, quite simply called Also. Touted as a “next generation ideas festival,” this green festival will be taking place at Park Farm in Warwickshire from July 8th to 10th. Fun activities including night time nature walks and flower crown making are on tap for those attending.
Meanwhile there will be a celebrity presence at Vegan Camp Out. Also due to take place in July, this time from the 15th to the 18th at Stanford Hall in Leicestershire, it will feature appearances by comedian Simon Amstell as well as Evanna Lynch, famed Harry Potter actress. There will also be music by reggae artist Macka B alongside Grime MC JME.
A classic alternative festival returns in the form of Wilderness from August 4th to 7th at Cornbury Park in Oxfordshire. This one retains an old school festival feel while offering an extensive selection of activities. Attendees can look forward to paddle board yoga as well as the 'goddess space' for female festival goers.
Finally there is the Medicine Festival. Guest speakers will offer an indigenous perspective on world issues, while much like other events listed there will be an emphasis on positive mental health activities such as yoga, wild swimming and forest bathing. All this and more will be occurring August 18th to 21st
at the Wasing Estate in Berkshire.
Of significant interest to drinkers and non-drinkers alike is the long anticipated return of Oktoberfest. The world famous German festival makes its comeback after two years of covid cancellations. It has been confirmed that the mammoth return will take place from September 17th until October 3rd.
It has also been confirmed that there will be something for everyone in Bavaria this year. Alongside the 1.7 million gallons beer set to be drunk there will also be available some choice non alcoholic selections.
With all kinds of fun to be had, in what is the first truly post-covid summer, there are sure to be many happy memories and new friendships made over a glass of alcohol free IPA in 2022.