There certainly is life after Christmas if you’re looking for a decent pint

AFTER months of the seasonal hype that begins just after you have returned from your summer holidays, it’s about now that people start wondering: is there life after Christmas? writes Neville Grundy.

The good news for beer lovers is that it’s a decisive “yes”, as there are some exciting events here in the North West in the New Year.

First is the Camra Manchester Beer & Cider Festival (MBCF) which runs from Thursday, January 24 to Saturday, January 26 2019 in Manchester Central, Windmill Street, Manchester, the fourth year at this venue.

MBCF is the North’s biggest pub crawl but safely protected from the weather.

With around 750 different drinks, there’s bound to be something to suit everyone.

MBCF aims to encourage people to try new beers, and this year it will feature some specially commissioned beers, collaborations and ales that are rarely, if ever, seen in this region. 15,558 eager beer lovers attended in 2018.

To join them, you can buy your tickets in advance yalznxro.

The nearest

Deansgate.

Next is the St George’s Hall Winter Ales Festival from Thursday, January 31 to Saturday, February 2 in one of Liverpool’s most iconic buildings.

Expect up to 200 different real ales and ciders alongside an indoor gin garden with a selection of boutique gins, spirits, wine and prosecco.

There will also be entertainment for all sessions except Friday daytime, and hot and cold food from local food providers to soak up the alcohol.

Though it’s not a Camra festival, they offer discount for Camra members with valid membership cards on the Thursday evening and Friday daytime sessions.

St George’s Hall is on Liverpool’s famous Lime Street. Get your tickets at: tinyurl.com/ydy3sa7t.

Camra Liverpool & Districts Branch is once again holding its annual beer festival from Thursday, February 21 to Saturday, February 23 in the impressive surroundings of the crypt of the Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral on at: tinyurl.com/ railway station is Brownlow Hill. More than 200 ales and ciders will be on offer.

The Brasswürst Bavarian Band will provide entertainment on Friday and Saturday evening, and food stalls are there should you get peckish.

The Camra Liverpool Beer Festival is the longest-running festival in Merseyside.

To join the fun, you can get your tickets at: tinyurl.com/y835xc4r.

If you decide to go to any of these, don’t leave it too long to buy your tickets as some sessions will definitely sell out.