12th Croatian Homebrew Championship set to take place

by croatiaweek
May 23, 2025
in Food & Wine

(Photo: Pivari Grada Zagreba)

On Saturday, 7 June 2025, Zagreb will once again become the epicentre of homebrewing excellence as it hosts the 12th Croatian Homebrew Championship.

Organised by the Pivari Grada Zagreba association and held at Zmajska Pivovara, this event is the largest and most significant gathering of homebrewers in the region.

The Zagreb beer community—and beyond—is eagerly anticipating the return of this iconic event. For many, it brings back fond memories of the original championships held at the legendary Magic Beer Room, with the tradition now proudly carried on at Zmajska Pivovara.

Over 80 Beers to Sample

Tickets are now on sale for €25, with on-the-day entry priced at €30. Each ticket includes a tasting glass and festival wristband, which grants unlimited sampling of more than 80 unique homebrewed and craft beers from across Croatia and abroad.

(Photo: Pivari Grada Zagreba)

Zagi Returns

This year, organisers are reviving Zagi, the beloved mascot of the 1987 Summer Universiade in Zagreb. But why bring Zagi back?

Much like the Universiade, this championship draws contestants from all corners of the world, united on a single stage—Zagreb. Both events celebrate passion, community, and the dedication of individuals showcasing the best of their skills, whether in sport or brewing.

(Photo: Pivari Grada Zagreba)

More Than Just Beer

To keep festivalgoers fuelled, Pivnica Mlinarica will be providing a variety of food options (not included in the ticket price), while Dr. Pigley will be on hand with beer-friendly snacks like pork scratchings.

The event promises a full day of entertainment, including:

• Live DJ sets

• Beer games such as beer pong and speed drinking

• A beer-themed quiz hosted by Šankatka

For those keen to learn more about brewing, the book In the Beginning, There Was Beer by Dalibor Antunović will be available at the festival stand.

The highlight of the day is the awards ceremony, where the best homebrewers will be honoured—including the coveted Best of Show (BOS) title. Expect appearances from some of the biggest names in Croatian, regional, and European brewing.

(Photo: Pivari Grada Zagreba)

Want Free Entry?

If you’re a homebrewer willing to donate a keg of your beer, you’ll receive free entry, a festival T-shirt, and a meal. And if you’ve completed the BJCP beer judging certification, consider applying to be a judge—another way to secure your spot at the festival.