The new issue of The Bollard provides some great advice on how to decide which beer festivals to attend and which should get a pass.
I used to hate beer festivals, but over time I’ve learned that they’re not all created equal, and some can be fantastic. A well-run festival is a social event where you learn things, a chance to try new beers and meet new people. It can be just as much fun as going to a concert. A poorly planned event can turn out to be a bro-fest promoting beers you already know too well. The tricky part is figuring out how to separate the hops from the chaff, so to speak.
Deep bow to you, Beer Babe, you nailed it. Beer festival from hell? Any at the Portland Co. on Fore St. Sounds like you’ve been there.