Belgian Beer Weekend returns to Roppongi Hills Arena this autumn. From October 1–5, the open-air arena will host a five-day celebration of Belgian beer, food stalls and live acts — a simple, well-made excuse to spend an evening outdoors with good beer.

The festival brings together 14 beer styles and 56 Belgian beers for tasting, from easy-drinking fruit ales to stronger abbey and quad beers. Food vendors will serve Belgian fries (frites) alongside roast beef, jerk chicken and other dishes chosen to pair with the beers on offer.

Entry to the site is free, but to order beer, you need the event’s starter or trial set that includes the official BBW glass and drink tokens. Starter and trial set prices are available in advance on the official site — buying ahead saves time at the venue. The festival uses a token system, so bring your set or buy tokens on site.

Music is part of the program. International and local acts — including Portland and Orlane, with a closing set by domestic band Synchre — will perform across the days to keep the atmosphere lively while you taste. Check the schedule on the event page before you go if you want to catch a specific act.

The event runs weekdays from late afternoon and opens earlier on weekends (times and last-order details vary by day). Roppongi Hills is directly connected to Roppongi Station (Hibiya Line) and is an easy walk from nearby stations. The festival is held rain or shine.

If you like planning, download or browse the BBWalker app (official BBW app) — it lists beers with tasting notes, venue maps and lets you build a tasting wishlist. It’s handy if you want to sample deliberately rather than randomly.

The event is one of the better ways to try many Belgian beers in one place without flying to Belgium. It’s relaxed, social and easy to combine with dinner or a night out in Roppongi. If you prefer a quieter tasting, visit on a weekday evening. (Avoid the busiest weekend hours if you want more seats.)