Pink Floyd’s groundbreaking album The Dark Side of the Moon was released in 1973. Now, its legendary name – and iconic prism artwork – is inspiring something worth raising a glass to. Dark Side Of The Beer is a brand-new festival taking over Sydney’s Inner West Ale Trail from July 23–26 – and you're invited.
For four glorious days, all 15 breweries along the Trail will pour exclusive dark beers, from stouts and porters to lagers and doppelbocks. And it's completely free to explore. Come for limited-edition brews, tap takeovers and brewery tours that let you get close to the action.
Whatever you do, make sure to try "beer poking". Say what? This German tradition involves plunging a red-hot poker into dark beer to caramelise the sugars, creating toasted marshmallow flavours and a creamy, velvety head. Trust us, it’s good – and it’s on offer at select breweries including Mixtape, Kicks, Bracket and Sauce (check the website for specific timings).
And don't worry about the winter chill – there are crackling fire pits and warming winter feasts. Sing along with live bands and DJs, the roaming Shanty Club, plus the community Earth, Wind and Choir led by Elana Stone at Young Henry's on Sunday from 4-6pm and get into the "spirit" of things with line dancing at Saddle Club. Go on, gather your mates. Find out more here.
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