Marchfest expands with new format for 2026

Nelson beer festival Marchfest has unveiled a new format, offering a wider range of beers to festival goers at its 2026 event this March.

Previously, Marchfest has showcased a limited number of festival-only brews. But this year’s event at Founders Heritage Park will welcome more than 20 independent breweries, each with their own stand and lineup of beers to explore.

Organisers says that there will be more than 100 beers on offer, making it the most expansive tasting experience in the festival’s 19-year history.

Breweries already confirmed include locals The Mussel Inn, Sprig + Fern, Aliment, Golden Bear, and Acoustic Brewing, alongside Behemoth (Auckland), Emerson’s (Dunedin), Boneface (Upper Hutt), Parrotdog (Wellington) and many more from across the country. There will also be makers of cider, wine, brandy and cocktails.

“Marchfest has always been about celebrating great beer and the people who make it,” says Festival Director Shelley Haring. “This new format allows brewers to really showcase who they are and what they do best. It gives festivalgoers more freedom to explore, and to connect directly with the brewers.” 

The event on 28 March will again include the BrewZone, offering live demonstrations, expert talks, and insider tips from industry professionals. 

W: Visit marchfest.com