An independent New Forest brewery is inviting the community to come together at its taproom in Harley to celebrate its 15th anniversary.
A packed Vibrant Forest taproom
The all-day family event, on Saturday, 15th August, will honour Vibrant Forest’s incredible journey from its humble beginnings in Kevin Robinson’s garage to the thriving brewery it is today. Its beers are served in pubs and bars across the country.
The birthday party will feature a brewers’ bar serving new beer releases, limited edition brews, archive beers, and a few special surprises. In addition to Vibrant Forest’s beers, there will also be local ciders and a cocktail bar.
Partygoers can feast on street food and enjoy DJ sets from taproom favourites Bingo Brothers. Tickets for the party cost £5 for adults and include a commemorative Vibrant Forest glass. Entry for under-18s will be free.
“This anniversary is more than a birthday — it’s a celebration of everyone who has supported us over the years,” said Robinson.
“From our first brew to where we are today, we’ve been incredibly fortunate to be part of such a welcoming community. We can’t wait to celebrate together and raise a glass to the next chapter.”
To commemorate the occasion, the brewery will also unveil a limited-edition anniversary brew created specially for the event. The beer is called First Settlement, which is a nod to the first location of Vibrant Forest’s taproom and a nearby Iron Age Fort.
First Settlement is a saison. Served in 750ml bottles, it features wild yeast and has been aged in apricot brandy barrels. Stocks of First Settlement will be limited and will only be available in the taproom and on Vibrant Forest’s online shop.
Throughout its anniversary year, Vibrant Forest will be launching three other anniversary beers, in addition to First Settlement. There will be Many Trees One Forest, brewed by friends and stockists of the brewery, as well as the return of Vibrant Forest’s first beer, Mooncross, named after Kevin’s famous garage.
Ryan Dack, general manager at Vibrant Forest, said: “We’re so lucky to have such a strong community around the brewery and the taproom. There is lots going on every week in the taproom, from yoga classes to Pokémon Go meet-ups, which makes us really feel at the heart of the local area.
“Whether you’re stopping off for a beer on your way back from a walk in the forest or spending time with mates, we welcome everyone to come in and enjoy the taproom. Even if you’re not a beer drinker and would prefer a cider or a cocktail, there will be something here for you.”
