Hops & Hooves returns this spring, serving Canberra’s most best beer, wine and spirits along with the thrill of thoroughbred racing. Photo: Zen Photography.
The warming weather means local crafters, producers and artisans are gearing up for the 2025 Hops & Hooves Festival – and you should be too.
Thoroughbred Park has pulled out all stops to deliver an action-packed schedule for this year’s race day.
Canberra’s favourite food trucks are set to join a curated showcase of local and regional craft beer, wine, spirits and non-alcoholic beverages. Live music, market stalls and family-friendly activities mean there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Footy fans can also watch the AFL Grand Final broadcast live and loud on the big screen.
And of course, the best of local thoroughbred racing will be proudly on display all afternoon. What’s not to love?
Ambush Brewing, a fresh-faced craft beer crew based in Mitchell, will make its Hops & Hooves debut this year.
What began as a passion project between two mates came to life in 2024 when Tim ‘Box’ Boxall and Sam ‘Axel’ Axelsen took the plunge, moved out of the shed, and started production.
“Our beers are bold, unfiltered, and never to be repeated,” Axel says.
“We love working with local and native ingredients to create something truly unique for the Canberra scene.
“This event feels like the perfect fit for us; great beer, great people and a fun atmosphere. We’re here to grow our brand awareness, chat to punters about beer trends, and most importantly, have a great time.”
Ambush is fast becoming a familiar face at beer festivals in and around the capital, but Hops & Hooves will be its biggest event yet.
Most breweries build their brand using a handful of core products. Ambush does things a little differently, brewing one or two seasonal batches that, once sold, will never be made again.
“We want people to trust the name Ambush, know we’ll bring them something awesome, and enjoy being surprised each season. This is obviously a lot more work, but it’s worth it to us,” Box says.
“Supporting local is everything. This festival is all about showcasing the best of our region, which we love.
“Using fresh ingredients from down the road shows us and our customers who we are, one pint at a time.”
Racegoers can expect five of Ambush’s best seasonal brews on tap at Hops & Hooves, including a first look at the Bohemian Pilsner, its Oktoberfest beer for 2025.
Alongside the Ambush crew will be fellow Canberra natives Bentspoke Brewing Co, MXTology, Cypher Brewing Co, Hold Fast Distillery, Gravity Drinks, Ambrosia Distillery, Choc Rum Australia and Murrumbateman Winery.
From a little further afield come regional favourites Jervis Bay Brewing Co, Six Strings Brewery and Broulee Brewhouse from NSW and Victoria’s Hawker Beer and Travla.
Hops & Hooves continues to go from strength to strength, according to Canberra Racing Club’s head of commercial and communications, Robbie Ringland.
“The festival is a real celebration of the best in local and regional food, drinks and entertainment,” he says.
“It’s such a unique event. Think Oktoberfest meets Black Opal Stakes Day meets AFL Grand Final watch party. We can’t wait to see you there!”
The 2025 Hops & Hooves Festival Race Day will be held at Thoroughbred Park, Lyneham, on Saturday, 27 September. Gates open at noon with local racing starting from 1 pm. Secure your spot via Canberra Tickets.
Keen to kick on after the races? The RUC will again host an afterparty to remember, open until late at 54 McCaughey Street, Turner.
