The festival began in 1991 when the Tsingtao Brewery first applied for permission for a Beer Festival in 1991 and received approval and great support from the Qingdao municipal administration, even to the extent that the city became the main sponsor. The first festival was opened on June 23rd, 1991, and has been held annually ever since.

        According to the official website, the festival integrates tourism, culture, sports, business and trading activities. The slogan of the festival is "Qingdao – Ganbei with the World!" . After 16 years of experience, the Qingdao International Beer Festival has become a well-known brand name and enjoys a wide reputation both nationally and internationally.

        Past festivals have featured artistic parades, "Beer Carnival" games, beer tasting, drinking contests, music, food, and interactive performances, as well as merchandise stalls for various breweries.