What is the brewfest?
Celebrating thirteen years as the Central Valley’s flagship craft beer event, the Brewfest returns to the Stanislaus County Fairgrounds on Saturday, May 9, 2026. This landmark festival blends over a decade of tradition with an expansive selection of regional breweries, local wineries, and live entertainment, creating a high-energy atmosphere that defines the region’s brewing culture. From the strategic "Power Hour" access of the VIP ticket to the discovery of new favorites across the grounds, the afternoon offers a curated and definitive deep dive into the best taste, art, and music the Valley has to offer.
FESTIVAL SCEHDULE
12:00pm - 1:00pm
VIP Admission & Wine Tent
The festival floor belongs to the VIPs. This is your time to explore the full lineup of breweries and wineries without the wait.
The VIP Advantage: Beat the rush and navigate the grounds with ease. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere where you can talk shop with the brewers before the main gates open.
Exclusive Pours: Access the Pink Boots x Dying Breed limited release and the Wine Tent ahead of the crowd.
Wine & Baguettes: Start your day in the Wine Tent with premium local pours and freshly-baked baguette.
1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
General Admission
The gates open to all! The party hits full stride with music, food, and shopping.
The Main Event: Explore over 150 unique brews from 45+ craft breweries. From local Central Valley favorites to renowned West Coast labels, the sampling is unlimited.
Bubbles & Brews Tent: Discover our new boutique space featuring Electric Linx permanent jewelry and local artisan vendors.
Live Stages: High-energy sets from Fast Times (Outdoor Stage) and DJ Izze (Indoor Stage).
Food Truck Row: Fresh Maine lobster, wood-fired pizza, and authentic street food are now served.
The brews and wines
The Central Valley Brewfest is the greatest celebration of beer and the amazing people who create it. Brewfest attendees are encouraged to ask questions and take their beer knowledge to the next level. This truly is a celebration of brew at its best! Check out some of this year’s participating breweries and follow us on Instagram or Facebook to be the first to know when we add to the lineup!
THE food lineup
A FEAST FOR EVERY CRAVING
What’s a world-class brew without the perfect pairing? We’ve curated a diverse selection of the region’s best food trucks to keep you fueled all afternoon. From coastal delicacies to wood-fired favorites, there is something for every palate.
Cousins Maine Lobster: World-famous Maine lobster rolls, tacos, and specialty seafood.
Taqueria El Trebol: Authentic local flavors and classic Mexican street eats.
The Rock Pizza Oven: Artisanal, wood-fired pizzas cooked to crispy perfection.
Casa Pinoy: Savory, traditional Filipino street food with a modern twist.
Munchis Mini Donuts: The perfect sweet finish—fresh, hot, and snackable.
live entertainment
TWO STAGES, ONE MASSIVE PARTY
Whether you’re looking to vibe indoors or dance under the sun, we have the soundtrack to your afternoon covered across two dedicated stages.
FAST TIMES on THE DUST BOWL LIVE STAGE
Get ready for the ultimate dance party! With over 25 years of experience, Fast Times performs the iconic hits you actually want to hear. From classic rock and 80s anthems to modern dance floor favorites, expect high-energy sets featuring the music of Prince, Journey, Bon Jovi, Michael Jackson, Bruno Mars, and more.
DJ IZZE on the THE INDOOR STAGE
A Brewfest staple, DJ Izze has been behind the decks since our very first year. Celebrating his 13th anniversary with the festival, he keeps the energy high all day long. Head inside to catch his signature mix and the best beats in the Central Valley.
Tickets
VIP Admission - $65 +taxes & fees
+ taxes & fees
Unlimited sampling from 12 PM to 5 PM
Festival glass
VIP Early Entry with VIP Entrance – Early entry into festival at 12 PM and breeze through with VIP entry through security and check-in
VIP Beer Sampling – Opportunity to sample unique beers that are available only to our VIP guests
VIP Wine Sampling – Unlimited samples from 12pm-1pm from local valley wineries
Exclusive VIP Brew: Experience a special collaboration between Dying Breed Brewing and the Pink Boots Society. This exclusive beer, crafted entirely by women, is available only during the VIP hour.
A freshly-baked baguette provided by Bella Luna Restaurant
Access to all festival activities, games, dance floor, and live band
LIMITED AVAILABILITY
$65 online ADVANCE SALE only (+ taxes & Fees), no door sales for VIP
General Admission - $45 +taxes & fees
Unlimited sampling from 1 PM to 5 PM
Festival glass
Access to all festival activities, games, dance floor, and live band
$45 online advAnce sale (+ taxes & Fees)
$55 at the door, if available (not guaranteed)
DD Admission - $30 +taxes & fees
Designated driver admission includes:
Entry into festival
Complimentary water bottle
Access to non-alcoholic event activities
$30 online advance sale (+ taxes & Fees)
$35 at the door, if available (not guaranteed)
“Great time... lots of beer, lot of people and lots of fun”