Some things don't change, though. As usual we have an impressive range of beers for you to try, from all four points of the British Isles and beyond, as well as ciders and perries. So we hope you'll be able to find something you like, even if your favourite tipple is not represented. (With so much real ale around at the moment, it's impossible for us to have everything.)
And to go with the real ale, what better than real food? We have our usual range of pies and the like, and this year our famous cheese selection is being provided by the Cambridge Cheese Company. And if you fancy something a bit hotter, try out the burger bar and hogroast, or the Thai food.
I would like to thank the Cambridge Evening News, Plextek and Geneva Technology for their generous sponsorship this year, which has helped us with the costs involved in moving to the new site. And also Bacchanalia, who are sponsoring our Introduction to Belgian beer tasting this year.
I would also like to thank all the volunteers, without whom this festival wouldn't be happening. As well as working hard during the festival itself, there are people who put a lot of hard work in throughout the year, and during set-up and take-down. We could always do with more help, though, so please think about volunteering, even for a few hours. Welcome, too, to staff of the Regal in Cambridge, who will be helping out behind the bar on Thursday.
I hope you enjoy the festival. Do come again - and bring a friend or two.
Shaun Marsh
Festival Organiser