Festival of Heretic Brewers

A heretical festival in the heart of Bologna

The Festival of Heretic Brewers is one of the most beloved events for craft beer enthusiasts in the Emilia-Romagna capital. Born in 2012, it has grown edition after edition to become a benchmark for those seeking independent labels, far from industrial production. The name says it all: here, brewing heresy is celebrated, that is, the freedom to experiment with styles, yeasts, and fermentations outside the box.

The formula is simple and successful: some of the best Italian publicans are invited to Bologna, and each personally selects the beers to present, mixing renowned labels with small local breweries. The result is a selection of over 100 taps active throughout the festival, a variety rarely found elsewhere in the city.

The new home: Parco della Montagnola

After many editions hosted at Parco del DLF in via Serlio, from 2026 the festival will change its venue and move to Parco della Montagnola, in via Irnerio 2/3, a stone's throw from the central station. It is the largest, oldest, and most Bolognese park in the city center: a green and historic setting that expands the event's spaces and brings it closer to the downtown audience. The move is linked to the closure for renovation of Parco del DLF, which is undergoing refurbishment until 2027.

Not just beer: food, music, and families

The Heretic Brewers are much more than a tap showcase. The gastronomic offer is extensive and curated, with traditional and refined street food options, selected natural wines, and themed corners. Every evening, the park's large concert area comes alive with free live music, thanks to the collaboration with the Bolognese entity Montagnola Republic.

Special attention is dedicated to families: during the weekend, free activities for children take place, including mini rugby courses, inflatables, and puppet shows. Pop-up events complete the program: beer presentations, aperitifs with brewers, and informal meetings with producers.

An event for Bologna and Emilia-Romagna

Fully included in the calendar of food and wine events of the Municipality of Bologna and its province, the Festival of Heretic Brewers represents one of the most vibrant showcases of beer culture in Emilia-Romagna. Convivial, popular, and with free admission, it is the perfect opportunity to discover the Italian independent beer scene in a relaxed and festive atmosphere.