Cider Festivals Around the World: A Review of the Top 25!

Cider is a beverage that has captured the hearts of enthusiasts around the globe. Whether you’re a connoisseur seeking the finest flavors or a curious explorer looking to discover new traditions, cider festivals offer a unique and engaging experience. In this article, we will guide you through a selection of the most unmissable international cider events, where culture, gastronomy, and conviviality come together to create unforgettable moments.

From the picturesque English countryside to the vibrant markets of Germany, and from the scenic coasts of California to beyond, get ready to discover the dates and locations where you can fully experience the magic of cider. Whether you’re up for an adventure in a medieval village or a seaside celebration, these festivals will offer you the best of this age-old tradition, taking you on a sensory journey that celebrates nature, the land, and craftsmanship. Enjoy reading and, most importantly, enjoy your cider!

1. OutCider Festival (Compton Martin, Somerset | August 1-4, 2024)
   Dive into the heart of Somerset’s vibrant cider culture at the OutCider Festival! With live music, cozy camping, and an impressive variety of local ciders, this event is a perfect blend of laid-back countryside vibes and energetic fun.
2. Worcester Beer, Cider & Perry Festival (Worcester, Worcestershire | August 8-10, 2024)
   Experience the best of British brewing at the Worcester Festival, where you’ll find an exceptional range of beers, ciders, and perries in a lively, historic city setting. It’s a must-visit for any beverage enthusiast!
3. Frankfurter Apfelweinfestival (Frankfurt, Germany | August 9-18, 2024)
   Immerse yourself in the rich tradition of Apfelwein in the heart of Frankfurt. This festival offers a unique taste of Germany’s cider culture, paired with delicious local foods and vibrant entertainment.
4. Gravenstein Apple Fair (Sebastopol, California | August 10-11, 2024)
   Celebrate the harvest of the Gravenstein apple in the beautiful setting of Northern California. With family-friendly activities, live music, and plenty of cider tastings, it’s an orchard lover’s paradise.
5. Cider & BBQ (Duluth, Minnesota | August 17, 2024)
   Savor the perfect pairing of smoky BBQ and crisp ciders at Duluth’s Cider & BBQ festival. Enjoy a day filled with mouthwatering flavors, local brews, and stunning views of Lake Superior.
6. Sidrama Ponte de Lima (Ponte de Lima, Portugal | August 23-25, 2024)
   Explore the charm of Ponte de Lima while indulging in Portugal’s finest ciders. This festival promises a delightful mix of tradition, taste, and the warm hospitality of the Portuguese countryside.
7. Festival de la Sidra Natural (Gijón, Asturias | August 23 – September 1, 2024)
   Join the locals in Gijón for a vibrant celebration of natural cider. From traditional cider pouring to lively music and dancing, this festival offers an authentic Asturian experience.
8. Central Coast Cider Festival (Atascadero, California | August 24, 2024)
   Discover California’s finest ciders at the Central Coast Cider Festival. Set in the scenic wine country, this event features local cideries, gourmet food, and live music, making it a perfect day out.
9. Trierer Viezfest (Trier, Rhineland-Palatinate | August 24, 2024)
   Dive into the world of “Viez” in Germany’s oldest city, Trier. This festival is a celebration of the region’s traditional apple wine, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and great taste.
10. Cider Dayze Festival (Armada, Michigan | August 24-25, 2024)
    Head to Armada for a weekend of fun at the Cider Dayze Festival. Enjoy a wide selection of craft ciders, live music, and the relaxed atmosphere of a small-town celebration.
11. Ross Cider Festival (Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire | August 30 – September 1, 2024)
    Experience the idyllic setting of Ross-on-Wye while sipping on some of the finest ciders Herefordshire has to offer. This festival combines rural charm with a lively atmosphere.
12. Camano Ciderfest (Camano Island, Washington | August 31 – September 1, 2024)
    Escape to Camano Island for a refreshing weekend at the Ciderfest. This event offers a unique blend of local ciders, scenic beauty, and a laid-back island vibe.
13. Armagh Food & Cider Weekend (Country Armagh, Northern Ireland | September 5-8, 2024)
    Taste the best of Northern Ireland’s apple country at the Armagh Food & Cider Weekend. From orchard tours to gourmet meals, this festival is a true celebration of local flavors.
14. Cider Summit Seattle (Seattle, Washington | September 6-7, 2024)
    Discover over 150 ciders from around the world at Seattle’s premier cider event. Set in a beautiful location, this summit is a must-visit for cider aficionados and newcomers alike.
15. Maryland Cider Festival (Gaithersburg, Maryland | September 7, 2024)
    Enjoy a day of cider sampling and family fun at the Maryland Cider Festival. With plenty of local vendors, live music, and activities, it’s a perfect way to spend a fall day.
16. St. Cloud Craft Beer & Ciderfest (St. Cloud, Minnesota | September 14, 2024)
    Combine the best of both worlds at St. Cloud’s Craft Beer & Ciderfest. With a variety of craft beverages and a festive atmosphere, this event is a highlight of the local social calendar.
17. The Core Pour (Burton, Ohio | September 14, 2024)
    Celebrate all things apple at The Core Pour in Burton. This festival offers an abundance of cider tastings, artisanal goods, and family-friendly activities in a picturesque rural setting.
18. York Beer & Cider Festival (York, North Yorkshire | September 18-21, 2024)
    Step into the historic city of York for one of the UK’s largest beer and cider festivals. With hundreds of varieties on offer, it’s a dream destination for any enthusiast.
19. CiderWeek Frankfurt (Frankfurt, Germany | September 19-28, 2024)
    Explore Frankfurt’s cider culture during CiderWeek. This event offers tastings, workshops, and plenty of entertainment, all centered around the city’s beloved Apfelwein.
20. Slavnost Cideru (Prague, Czechia | September 20-22, 2024)
    Experience Prague’s cider scene at Slavnost Cideru, where traditional and modern cider-making techniques meet. Enjoy a weekend of tastings, food pairings, and vibrant local culture.
21. Cider Harvest Festival (Cobble Hill, British Columbia | September 22, 2024)
    Join the harvest celebration in beautiful Cobble Hill. This festival showcases local ciders, live music, and a community spirit that will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired.
22. Salón Internacional de les Sidres de Gala (Gijón, Asturias | September 26-29, 2024)
    Attend the world-renowned Salón Internacional de les Sidres de Gala in Gijón. This prestigious event features the best ciders from around the globe in a luxurious setting.
23. Cidermania (Williamson, New York | September 27, 2024)
    Head to Williamson for Cidermania, a festival that celebrates the area’s rich apple-growing tradition. Enjoy cider tastings, orchard tours, and a warm, community-focused atmosphere.
24. Cider Swig (Gig Harbor, Washington | September 28, 2024)
    Sip, savor, and enjoy the scenic beauty of Gig Harbor at the Cider Swig. With a fantastic range of local ciders and delicious food, it’s a fun and festive day for all ages.
25. Whidbey Island Cider Festival (Coupeville, Washington | September 28, 2024)
    Discover the charm of Whidbey Island while sampling some of the Pacific Northwest’s best ciders. This festival offers a perfect blend of local flavors and island hospitality.