Well it’s that time of year when brewers switch to the darker beers and start up the ‘special’ Christmas editions, and it’s also the time of the year when the country gets whipped up into a consumer frenzy and beer festivals just don’t seem to happen on the run-in.

2011 take a bow as December this year looks to change everything, so hats off to all those involved!

All taken from the Nottingham CAMRA festivals diary

December

Mon 5th to Sun 11th
The Ropewalk Real Ale Festival, 107-111 Derby Road, Nottingham. NG1 5BB. 13 Real ales all at £2 a pint, £1 a half. Visit facebook page for full beer list or Tel 0115 959 6181 for more details.

Thu 8th to Sat 10th
Dewdrop Beer Festival, 24 Station St, Ilkeston. DE7 5TE. Over 25 beers, 15 on stillaging in rear yard (Patio heaters). Barbeque.

Fri 16th to Fri 23rd
Bunkers Hill Christmas Beer Festival, Nottingham. Showcasing Festive Seasonal Beers from Local and Regional Breweries. More details to follow.

And don’t forget this weekend coming is the ever excellent West Bridgford Hockey Club festival.