Lebanon’s beer lovers have a chance to celebrate the local brew during the 22nd annual Beer Festival that is set to go on until Sunday at the premises of Lebanese restaurant chain Shtrumpf in Jounieh.
“We have been serving local beer for the past 21 years,” Manager Joe Azar told The Daily Star, hinting that the event favors local brews over any imported brands.
“We only serve imported beer in a small segment of the Beer Festival which is known as the Beer Olympics” he said.
Shtrumpf Bar and Grill, a restaurant renowned for its annual Beer Festival, kicked off the event last week, reeling in hundreds of customers every night.
Whether drowning out the kegs or chugging down pints, many of the festivalgoers supported the decision to promote local beer over its imported counterparts.
“We are loyal to our country so we drink local beer,” said one attendee, raising a pint in honor of his country’s brew.
Similarly, Soha Merhej also declared her love for Lebanese beer, saying that “it is one of the few things Lebanon has done right.”
Although the local beer market in Lebanon was dominated for a long time by a single brand, recent years and the summer 2014 season saw the introduction of new brands, styles and tastes.
After the pure malt and light versions, legendary local beer producerAlmaza introduced the bas de gamme “Rayess” (leader) beer and increased the alcohol content to 5 percent.
Another beer brand that made its way to Lebanese markets this summer is the “Beirut” beer, which is produced by Kassatly Chtaura, a pioneer in the making of a wide range of liqueurs and juices.
In addition to beer, the 22nd Beer Festival also includes performances by live bands and entertainment every night.
“This is the place for all beer lovers,” Azar said.
“It is their celebration.”
The festival is held around an outdoor pool in Shtrumpf’s Jounieh branch, with several corner lounges added to the setting.
At around 10:30 p.m., groups of dancers and artists take to the stage and deliver a mix of music and dance performances.
Azar explained that 8eme art, a Lebanon-based entertainment service, offers a variety of musical performances throughout the festival alongside a dance group who put on dance shows every night.
The event, which started in 1992, offers customers unlimited beer, food samplings, music, entertainment, bar games and dancing.
Once faced with the bustling crowds of the annual beer festival, one is left with a simple question: What is it about beer that attracts such large masses?
“Why do I like it? It is refreshing and has alcohol, and it’s budget friendly,” one attendee said.
Noor al-Dean also offered up a similar answer, saying his affinity for the brew stems from the fact that it makes him “better looking” as well as “an amazing conversationalist.”
Meanwhile, Cheryl went for a less obvious answer, saying that drinking beer is an “efficient workout,” arguing that it makes her “run back and forth to the restrooms.”
Shtrumpf’s 22nd Beer Festival from Sept. 4 until Sept. 14, for more information and reservations contact Shtrumpf, Jounieh on 09-644-044.
By Hashem Osseiran
