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Event Details
Welcome to the Kerstbierfestival 2026 in Essen
On December 12 and 13, 2026, the Heuvelhal in the Belgian town of Essen once again becomes a haven for lovers of Christmas beer. The festival has been organized since 1994 by O.B.E.R. (Objective Beer Tasters Essen Region), a group dedicated to promoting Belgian beer culture and supporting small breweries.
Highlights and Attractions at the Kerstbierfestival in Essen
- About 200 Belgian Christmas and winter beers to taste, including around 20 on draught
- Rare brews from small and remote breweries alongside well known world classics
- Tastings served in 15 cl glasses so visitors can properly compare aromas and character
- Warm Gluhkriek served as a cozy classic against the winter chill
- An exclusive festival tasting glass and a festival guide included with every ticket
- Around 2100 visitors from about 25 countries attend every year
- A shuttle bus running between Essen train station and the Heuvelhal on both festival days
Find Accommodation in Essen
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Free cancellation on most hotels
Program and Schedule: What to Expect in 2026
On Saturday the Heuvelhal is open from 12:30 pm to 11 pm, and on Sunday from 12 pm to 7 pm. Payment inside runs on tokens bought at the box office. Most beers cost one token, while a few especially exclusive bottles cost two tokens or more. Visitors who want to share a full bottle with friends can also buy one at the beer shop using tokens. For a bite to eat, cheese and charcuterie plates are available inside along with food trucks parked outside the hall.
Tickets and Admission for the Kerstbierfestival Essen
Online presale opens on September 1, 2026 at 10 am and tends to sell out quickly. A ticket costs 30 euros plus a small processing fee and includes admission, six tokens, one token for a bottle of water and the exclusive tasting glass. O.B.E.R. members can reserve up to two tickets starting August 15. On Saturday evening from 6 pm, entry is also possible at the door without a ticket, again for 30 euros.
Visitor Tips: Travel and Accommodation in Essen
- By train, Essen is reachable hourly from both Antwerp (about 39 minutes) and Roosendaal (about 9 minutes)
- A free shuttle bus links Essen station with the Heuvelhal during the festival, or it is roughly an 1850 meter walk into town
- By car, the Heuvelhal is easily reached via the E19 from both Antwerp and Breda, with parking available in front of and behind the venue
- Warm clothing is a good idea, since this is a winter festival held in December
- As Essen is a small town, accommodation nearby should be booked early, for example in nearby Antwerp
Note: The information on this page was researched at the time of writing and may have changed since then (e.g. date, venue, or program). Visit the organizer's official website →
The photo used is illustrative and does not necessarily depict the actual event.
