Day 1

Arrive & Explore Downtown PoCo

Start your weekend in the heart of Port Coquitlam at Leigh Square. Featuring public art and fountains, the square is also a hub for community events during the summer months.

Port Coquitlam Farmers Market

Shop for farm-fresh produce, homemade treats, and artisan-made goods every Thursday from 3 to 7 pm.

Downtown PoCo Friday Nights

Enjoy live music, a beverage garden, family activities, local vendors, and a fountain light show on Friday, June 19 and July 3 from 4–9 pm.

Music in the Square

Live afternoon concerts featuring professional musicians and a variety of genres on July 5, July 19, August 9, and August 23 from 2 to 5 pm.

Fountain Light Shows

Visiting on a Friday or Saturday evening? Stick around for the Leigh Square fountain light shows at 7 and 9:30 pm.

Dinner & Drinks at Patina Brewing Co. Brewhouse & BBQ

A fitting next stop, Patina Brewing Co. pairs craft beer with slow-smoked barbecue. The rotating tap list keeps both casual beer drinkers and craft enthusiasts happy, featuring approachable lagers, award-winning core favourites, and the occasional experimental brew. The food menu leans heavily into comfort classics, including brisket, ribs, pulled pork, smoked chicken wings, and several barbecue-inspired poutines. 

If you’re visiting on a Friday or Saturday, stay for late-night happy hour from 8:30 pm until close. Between the busy patio, friendly staff, and laid-back atmosphere, Patina is the kind of place where one quick pint easily turns into an entire evening.

Day 2

Breakfast & the Traboulay PoCo Trail

Kick off Saturday with brunch at Crave Bistro & Bar, a local favourite that elevates breakfast classics with global twists. The menu ranges from waffle bennies and rolled omelettes to flavour-packed specialities like Mexican chilaquiles and Turkish menemen. Whatever you order, Crave is the perfect spot to fuel up before a day of exploring.

Walk or Bike the Traboulay PoCo Trail 

One of the best ways to experience Port Coquitlam is by getting outside. The Traboulay PoCo Trail is a scenic 25-kilometre multi-use loop connecting parks, pathways, forests, wetlands, and urban neighbourhoods. The trail is mostly flat, with a mix of paved paths and packed gravel, making it accessible for walkers, runners, and cyclists of all ages and activity levels.

Do the full loop, or just pick a section and go at your own pace. Either way, the trail offers a peaceful contrast to a weekend of brewery hopping and makes that first afternoon pint feel especially well earned.

Explore the North of the Fraser Ale Trail

PoCo’s brewery scene is small but well-connected, offering a laid-back way to spend an afternoon. Several tasting rooms are located in close proximity to one another, making for an ideal self-guided tasting tour. Be sure to download the free BC Ale Trail app before you start, and it’ll help you navigate between stops. Plus, check in at each brewery and earn rewards along the way.

Tinhouse Brewing

 A 12-tap neighbourhood brewery with a welcoming, community-focused space, Tinhouse Brewing is known for balanced, approachable beers with a noticeable lean toward British-inspired malt-forward styles. Alongside hazy IPAs and crisp lagers, expect rotating brown ales, porters, seasonal releases, and occasional barrel-aged offerings.

Side Quest Brewing Co.

Just a block from Tinhouse, Side Quest Brewing Co. brings a playful, pop-culture twist to the craft beer experience. Inspired by fantasy, gaming, sci-fi, and all things nerd culture, the beer lineup stays grounded in thoughtful, approachable beers, but with plenty of character.

Taylight Brewing

Bright, open, and inviting, Taylight Brewing focuses on easy-drinking IPAs and refreshing lagers across its rotating tap list. Its location near the riverfront section of the Traboulay PoCo Trail also makes it a convenient stop for walkers and cyclists looking to rest and replenish.

Patina Brewing Co

Circle back to Patina Brewing Co. for another flight and a round of shareable barbecue favourites.

Poco Brothers Brewing Co

End the brewery loop at Poco Brothers Brewing Co., located inside the historic Cat & Fiddle Pub. Established in 2021 as the pub’s in-house brewery, Poco Brothers offers fresh small-batch beers alongside the Cat & Fiddle’s full menu.

Fremont Village & Casual Local Dining

After an afternoon of tasting rooms, spend some time exploring the Fremont Village area. The north-side district combines shopping, dining and outdoor spaces, making it a convenient place to continue the evening.

When dinner rolls around, Cat & Fiddle Pub is a natural choice. A longtime neighbourhood favourite, it has been a cornerstone of the Port Coquitlam community since 1979 — known for hearty comfort food, a welcoming atmosphere, and a longstanding commitment to local charities and sports teams. 

And when you’re ready for one last pint, Poco Brothers Brewing Co. is right there for an effortless nightcap.

Day 3

Family-Friendly Activities & One Last Pint

Start your final morning at The Big Flat Pancake Co., a popular local brunch spot known for its Dutch-style pancakes. Unlike traditional North American pancakes, these are thin, soft, yet still fluffy, with plenty of sweet and savoury flavours to choose from. Alongside the signature pancakes, they also serve waffles, eggs, sandwiches, coffee, mimosas, and Caesars for a leisurely brunch experience.

Before heading home, Port Coquitlam has a few great options for a relaxed Sunday morning:

Hyde Creek Recreation Centre

A popular local complex with pools, racquet courts, and fitness amenities. 

Port Coquitlam Community Centre (PCCC)

Featuring a leisure pool and seasonal spray park that’s perfect for kids on a warm summer morning.

Leigh Square & Donald Pathway

A relaxed urban walking area connecting downtown pathways, art installations, and green space.

If you missed any breweries on Saturday, Sunday afternoon is the perfect time to squeeze in one last tasting room stop. It’s also a great opportunity to pick up a growler or four-pack and bring a little bit of PoCo home with you.

Why Port Coquitlam Makes a Great Weekend Getaway

Port Coquitlam strikes the balance between outdoor adventure, local flavour, and a strong sense of community. The city feels relaxed without lacking energy, and its growing craft beer scene adds to its appeal as a weekend destination. 

Whether you’re visiting for the breweries, restaurants, trails, or a quieter escape within Metro Vancouver, Port Coquitlam is well worth a weekend getaway.

Continue your travels along the North of the Fraser Ale Trail. 

Every Pint Tells a Story

Supporting Local. Celebrating Community.

The post Port Coquitlam’s Best Bites, Brews & Outdoor Adventures appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

While Vancouver takes centre stage as a host city, communities across the province are joining the excitement with fan zones, watch parties, beer gardens, live entertainment, and plenty of opportunities to cheer alongside fellow fans.

So, whether you’re looking for a lively place to catch a match, gather with friends, or soak up the atmosphere, you’ll find plenty of ways to join the celebration this summer in our Match Day Pints Guide. We’ve created this list of the best fan zones, watch parties, and community events happening around British Columbia. Click on any participating brewery below for event details, or find all of these events in the BC Ale Trail app. Don’t have it yet? Download it today and take BC’s craft beer scene with you.

Cheers to a summer of great matches, great beer, and memorable moments!

Metro Vancouver & Fraser Valley

Vancouver

FIFA Fan Festival

The official FIFA Fan Festival at Hastings Park will be BC’s largest tournament celebration, featuring giant screens, live entertainment, food vendors, cultural programming, and interactive fan experiences throughout the tournament.

Granville Island

One of Vancouver’s most iconic destinations is getting into the soccer spirit with free public match screenings throughout the tournament. Between games, explore the Public Market, waterfront patios, and vibrant craft beverage scene.

R&B Brewing

Watch matches on a massive 140-inch screen while enjoying special Team Canada food and beer pairings.

Parallel 49 Brewing

One of Vancouver’s largest breweries has transformed its 250-seat patio and event space into an outdoor viewing area for all of the games this June and July, featuring a giant outdoor screen, DJs, food, and more.

Luppolo Brewing Company

Showing select matches in the tasting room. Table reservations are highly encouraged.

Steamworks Brewing Co.

Serving as Vancouver’s unofficial Swiss headquarters, welcoming fans of all nations throughout the tournament.

Steamworks Mount Pleasant Kitchen & Taphouse

Showing matches in the taphouse throughout the tournament

Strathcona Beer Co.

Offering watch parties, snacks, and match-day drink specials.

Container Brewing

Enjoy patio parties for every game, all tournament long.

East Vancouver Brewing Company

Enjoy a pint and good food while they show matches all tournament long. Table reservations encouraged.

Strange Fellows Brewing

Watch the world’s best teams compete all tournament long while enjoying Strange Fellows’ award-winning beers.

Main Street Brewing

Enjoy all the Team Canada matches along with select tournament games. Open early for select games.

Howe Sound Brewing

Showing every match in the brewery throughout the tournament and offering $12 double Caesars and $20 jugs of Howe Sound Lager during the games. Enjoy a $20 burger and beer special from Monday to Friday. Open 30 minutes before early games.

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North Vancouver

Uber Eats Canada Soccer House

The Shipyards will become home to Uber Eats Canada Soccer House, a waterfront gathering place featuring match screenings, special events, entertainment, food, and plenty of opportunities to celebrate Canada’s biggest soccer summer yet.

Strathcona North

Showing every match with early openings for select morning games, true 20oz pours, and daily happy hour specials.

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Surrey

Public Watch Parties and Community Events

Three free Soccer Fan Zones at Surrey Civic Plaza, Cloverdale Agriplex, and South Surrey Athletic Park will feature giant screens, food trucks, family-friendly activities, and licensed beer gardens.

Way Back Brew Co.

Showing matches all month long, making it easy to settle in with a locally crafted pint and soak up the match-day excitement.

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New Westminster

Public Watch Parties and Community Events

New Westminster is Fired Up for soccer with public watch parties, cultural programming, community events, and activities taking place throughout the tournament.

Howe Sound Taphouse & Kitchen

Showing every match in the brewery throughout the tournament and offering a special $8.50 breakfast menu and $12 double Caesars, as well as a $20 burger and beer special every day. Open 30 minutes before early games.

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Delta

Public Watch Parties and Community Events

Watch matches from Ladner’s Chisholm Street Wharf or the North Delta Recreation Centre while enjoying community programming and activities.

Four Winds Brewing Co.

Showing every match in the taproom.

Four Winds Beach House & Brewery

Catch every match on large projectors and TVs overlooking Boundary Bay.

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Coquitlam

Public Watch Parties

Public match viewings will rotate between several outdoor locations, creating neighbourhood gathering spaces for fans throughout the tournament.

Mariner Brewing

Showing every tournament match on the big screen with full sound, plus daily soccer-themed T-shirt giveaways and Team Canada jersey raffles on select match days.

Side Quest Brewing Co.

Showing all matches (that start between 12-7 pm) with the sound on. No cost to come, happy hour from 12-6 pm with $5 pints.

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Port Moody

Train Wreck Brewing

Join fellow fans for match screenings throughout the tournament.

Yellow Dog Brewing

Showing all matches throughout the tournament and hosting special giveaways during every Canada match. Grab a pint and join fellow supporters as Canada takes on the world’s best.

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Port Coquitlam

Taylight Brewing

Extended hours, international match celebrations, and tournament-themed food and beer specials throughout the tournament.

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Langley

Camp Beer Co.

A massive outdoor watch party experience featuring every match, special soccer mug club perks, custom cask beers, food features, and a final match celebration.

Dead Frog Brewery

Catch all the action throughout the tournament while enjoying a lineup of locally crafted beers.

Five Roads Brewing

Watch Vancouver-hosted matches while enjoying specials on their soccer-themed Mexican lager. Team Canada goals unlock $5 beers.

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Chilliwack

Sidekick Brewing

Showing every match in the taproom, with $15 60oz pitchers during Team Canada games.

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Pitt Meadows

Foamers’ Folly Brewing

Showing every single match LIVE. Grab a $5 pint and enjoy the festivities!

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Squamish

Howe Sound Brewing

Showing every match in the brewery throughout the tournament and offering a special breakfast menu and $12 double Caesars, as well as a $20 burger and beer special from Monday to Friday. Open 30 minutes before early games.

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Pemberton

Bridge Brewing

Catch every match on multiple screens, full sound, delicious handcrafted eats, and a pint of your favourite craft beer in hand.

Sunshine Coast

Gibsons & Sechelt

Public Watch Parties and Community Events

Both Gibsons and Sechelt have received provincial funding to support free celebrations. Keep an eye on local event listings for details on community viewing parties and special programming throughout the tournament

Persephone Brewing Company

Join fellow fans for watch parties and receive 10% off on match days when you mention “Match Days.”

The Spare Room at The Alley

Pair all the action with Persephone pints and a full pub menu featuring burgers, wings, and more.

Vancouver Island

Victoria

Public Watch Parties and Community Events 

Downtown Victoria is embracing the tournament with outdoor watch parties, street activations, and community events hosted in partnership with local businesses throughout the city.

Driftwood Brewing

Enjoy all the games on their new 75″ TV, starting at 12:00pm daily. Select matches shown with sound.

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Langford

Public Watch Parties and Community Events

Langford’s cultural district will come alive with public match screenings, local vendors, food trucks, live entertainment, and a licensed beverage garden. It’s an ideal stop for soccer fans travelling through southern Vancouver Island.

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Comox Valley

Public Watch Party

Celebrate Canada’s opening match with a community gathering featuring live music, cultural performances, and a shared viewing experience in one of Vancouver Island’s most scenic regions.

Interior BC

Kamloops

Public Watch Parties and Community Events

Riverside Park will serve as Kamloops’ soccer headquarters, with matches broadcast on a large outdoor screen at the Rotary Bandshell. Team Canada games and the tournament final will feature enhanced programming, including food trucks, family activities, live entertainment, and a beer garden.

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Kelowna

Kelowna Beer Institute

Transforming into “England House” for every England match, complete with a dedicated viewing room, prizes, food specials, and a pint included with admission.

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Penticton

Yellow Dog Brewing

Catch Canada’s matches with fellow fans while enjoying locally crafted beer and the vibrant atmosphere of Penticton’s brewery district.

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Salmon Arm

Public Watch Parties

Salmon Arm is planning a series of free community watch parties, giving visitors another reason to spend time in the Shuswap region during the tournament.

Ricochet Brewing & Taphouse

Join the After the Pitch celebrations with an expanded street-side patio, food specials, outdoor games, and 36 BC craft beverage taps.

———

Cranbrook

Public Watch Parties and Community Events

The East Kootenays will join the celebration with public viewing opportunities and soccer-themed community events throughout the tournament.

Northern BC

Prince George

Public Watch Party

Prince George will host a community watch party for the soccer final, bringing fans together to celebrate the culmination of the world’s biggest sporting event.

Join the Celebration

One of the best things about the beautiful game is how it brings people together. This summer, communities across BC are creating spaces where fans can gather, cheer on their favourite teams, and be part of the excitement.

Whether you’re watching from a waterfront fan zone, a community watch party, or your local brewery patio, there’s no shortage of ways to experience the soccer spirit. And while the tournament may be a global event, it’s also a great opportunity to celebrate local. BC’s craft breweries are producing world-class beer in communities across the province, and many are opening their doors for match-day festivities.

So pull on your lucky jersey, gather your crew, and raise a locally crafted pint to a summer of great beer, unforgettable moments, and world-class soccer.

For further resources, visit Super, Natural BC.

The post Match Day Pints: Where to Celebrate the Beautiful Game in BC appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

Whether you’re a die-hard hop head or just love a good excuse to experience a new corner of the province, this year’s lineup has something for everyone. From intimate community celebrations to sprawling multi-brewery showcases, BC’s craft beer festivals bring together the best local breweries, cideries, and distilleries under one roof — paired with great food, inventive non-alc options, live music, and the kind of good vibes that only come from a crowd of fellow beer lovers.

Why not make a proper getaway out of it? BC’s festival circuit spans the entire province, giving you the perfect reason to explore a new town, support local businesses, and discover what makes each region’s beer scene one-of-a-kind.

Here are the spring and summer beer festivals worth marking on your calendar right now — because the best fests have a way of selling out fast.

Brewhalla Beer & Music Festival • Fort Langley

June 13

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Parksville Beer Festival • Parksville

July 4

Indulge in your love for craft beer, connect with like-minded individuals, and support local businesses, all within a festival atmosphere curated for enjoyment and discovery. At the Parksville Beer Festival, it’s not just about exceptional beers – it’s also a haven for foodies! Get ready to complement your craft beer experience with a fantastic selection from the specially curated food trucks.

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Phillips Backyard Music Festival • Victoria

July 10 – 12

Phillips’ multi-day music festival is back again, blending craft beer culture with live music in a fun, inclusive, community-centred atmosphere. This year’s lineup includes big names like Chance the Rapper and Father John Misty, among many others. Weekend passes are sold out, but single-day tickets are still available — get yours before they sell out!

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Battle of the Brews • Surrey

August 15

The Surrey Fire Fighters’ Charitable Society and 93.7 JR Country are hosting the 8th Annual Battle of the Brews.  This fun charity event will offer attendees a great afternoon of craft beer tasting and food trucks.  Attendees will get the chance to help choose their favourite beers, and all proceeds from the event will help fund Surrey Fire Fighters’ Charitable Society youth initiatives.

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Cowichan Craft Beer and Food Festival • Chemainus

August 15

The Cowichan Craft Beer & Food Festival is a community-rooted, non-profit event bringing together 30+ BC breweries pouring 100+ craft beverages alongside ciders, non-alcoholic options, and 15+ food trucks and local eats — all set to live music. With shuttle service available for a safe ride home, it’s a great reason to explore the Cowichan Valley and support local.

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Squamish Beer Festival • Squamish

August 29

Located at the Loggers Sports Ground, the Squamish festival brings together more than 55 breweries and cideries for craft beer lovers to celebrate great beer and mountain culture with food, games, axe throwing, DJs, an artisan marketplace, live music, and more.

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Barnside Harvest Festival • Ladner

September 11-13

More than just a beer festival, Barnside Harvest Festival is a celebration of local food, craft beverages, music, and community. Held at Paterson Park in Ladner, this three-day event features an impressive lineup of live music alongside a curated selection of BC craft breweries, cideries, wineries, and food vendors. It’s the perfect way to savour the final days of summer.

Shuswap Brewers Fest • Salmon Arm

September 13

Hosted at Northyards Cider Co., the Shuswap Brewers Fest brings together craft breweries, cideries, distilleries, food vendors, and live entertainment for a relaxed afternoon celebrating the region’s thriving beverage scene. As an added bonus, the event supports the Salmon Arm Rescue Society, making every sip a chance to give back to the local community.

Whistler Village Beer Festival • Whistler

September 16-20

Set against the stunning backdrop of Whistler’s mountains, the Whistler Village Beer Festival combines craft beer, cider, seltzers, live music, and mountain-town energy into one unforgettable weekend. The festival features a series of events throughout the village, culminating in the Main Event at Whistler Olympic Plaza, where dozens of beverage makers come together for an afternoon of sampling, food trucks, games, and good times.

The post Cheers! 2026 Summer Beer Festivals appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

Vancouver’s North Shore Craft Beer Festival kicks off on November 7th with the signature festival at the Pipe Shop. It’s the perfect way to set the tone for two weeks of fun events, activities, and new brew releases highlighting the incredible craft breweries, cideries and distilleries that call the North Shore home.

This is also the perfect time to fill your Vancouver’s North Shore Tasting Passport. The contest runs from November 1 – 30: visit any of the participating locations and collect a stamp with purchase (or, go digital with the BC Ale Trail mobile app!). Once you have 6 unique stamps, hand in your passport to be entered into the grand prize draw. The best part? All of the VNSCBW events take place at locations where you can collect stamps!

Individual Brewery Events

The two-week festival is full of events and breweries, cideries and distilleries across the North Shore.

• November 7 – Launch Party

Kick it off in style at the official Launch Party at the Pipe Shop in The Shipyards. Always the tastiest and most exciting event of the Fall season on the North Shore, this high-energy event features live music, food trucks, and a curated selection of beverages from North Shore craft producers. This party always sells out, so get your tickets early!

• November 8 – Strathcona North

Enjoy a full meal deal with the North Shore’s pre-eminent culinary-driven brewery at Strathcona’s Brew Masters Dinner, where delicious food is thoughtfully paired with equally delightful beer.

• November 9 – Braggot Brewing

Party like a Viking! At Braggot Brewing, the celebration includes keg lifting, keg carrying, axe throwing, and stein holding—and some viking-worthy snacks in-between.

• November 10 – Bridge Brewing Company.

Come celebrate the expansion of one of the North Shore’s OG breweries at Bridge’s Open House in their new location just off Pemberton.

• November 11 – Shaketown Brewing

Test your ability to change the game at Shakertown’s Inaugural Liar’s Dice Tournament. There’ll be great prizes, a local-favourite food truck, and a feature cask release!

• November 12 – Wildeye Brewing

Think you know your UB40 from your MC5? Test your knowledge of Music History at a very special Festival edition of Wildeye’s legendary Trivia Nights.

• November 13 – Black Kettle Brewing

Catch the Jets v. Patriots game—and more importantly, the party outside before it—at Black Kettle’s Gameday Tailgate, featuring a bona fide Rib cookout, exclusive pilsner Urquell steins, and discounted appies.

• November 14 – Windfall Cider Co

Change it up at the only cidery on this list. Get to know these unique, community-produced ciders at a very special evening of tastings.

• November 15 – La Cerveceria Astilleros

Get jiggy with it at a Mexican fiesta dance party, featuring a live DJ and some new beer releases.

• November 16 – The Woods Spirit Co.

Enjoy your beer a little differently at Woods’ “Beer’tails” Night, where the North Shore distillery collaborates with a local brewery to create something truly unique and definitely magical.

• November 17 – North Point Brewing

And the coveted Monday Night spot goes to North Point where you can catch the big game with an exclusive beer special at the Monday Night Football Party.

• November 18 – Copperpenny Distilling Co.

Close enough! Get into the holiday spirit (ready or not) at Copperpenny’s “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” Party, featuring winter cocktails and curated holiday gift basket making.

• November 19 – Beva Brewing & Blending

Come thirsty—and hungry— to a very special Kitchen Pop-Up with a special guest that will complement Beva’s already delectable tasting room menu.

• November 10 – Beere Brewing

Close out the Festival with one more shot of energy at Beere’s very special Stout Release Party where $5 gets you a 16 oz pour of their new Espresso Stout called “Spressy Tini.”

For a full list of events and details, visit the VNSCBF page.

The Craft Beer Festival on Vancouver’s North Shore is all about kicking back, enjoying great locally-brewed beer, and making memories with friends old and new. See you there!

The post Experience Vancouver’s North Shore Craft Beer Festival 2025 appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

Fall is the perfect time to celebrate seasonal releases—think everything from limited edition fresh hop brews to rich pumpkin ales, and the return of stout season. Watch for brews that showcase the best of autumn flavours alongside your favourite year-round sips. Whether you’re looking to sample brews from a new-to-you brewery or simply enjoy good times with fellow beer enthusiasts, BC’s fall festival lineup promises unforgettable experiences that prove great vibes aren’t just for summer.

Silver Star Beer & Cider Fest • Silver Star Mountain, Vernon

September 6

What’s better than beer in the mountains? Celebrate Oktoberfest early this year with Silver Star’s signature craft beer and cider event—the perfect après to an epic summer season. They’re bringing the celebration back to this lively mountain village and invite you to come sip some of BC’s finest brews, enjoy food, a Polson Market pop-up, live music, games, and plenty of fun.

Barnside Harvest Festival • Ladner

September 12 – 14

The third annual, three-day festival in Ladner will feature live music from some of Canada’s most iconic bands, including the Walk off the Earth, Arkells and The Dead South. Along with tasty craft brews, the festival will include a multitude of food trucks; an artisan market;  the Delta Heritage Pavilion, and so much more.

Bring your pup on Sunday, Sept 14, from 12-5 pm. Explore exciting treat stations, play Musical Mats, and walk the red carpet as a part of our Best Dressed Dog Contest! Ticket holders can bring their dogs on Sunday afternoon to enjoy a day in the park with music and fun.

New this year: BC Craft Beer Corner
Come out on SUNDAY to enjoy a special celebration of local breweries from across the province, served alongside great food and live music.

Participating Breweries include: Camp Beer Co. | Container Brewing | Curious Creatures Beer | Barn Owl Brewing Co. | Driftwood Brewery | Farm Country Brewing | Field House Brewing | Giant’s Head Brewing | KPU Brew Lab | Luppolo Brewing | Moody Ales | Nelson Brewing Company | Old Abby Ales | The Parkside Brewery | Rewind Beer | Slackwater Brewing | The Patch Brewery | Tin Whistle Brewing | Trading Post Brewing | Wayback Brew Co.

SUPPORTED BY THE BC CRAFT BREWERS GUILD & THE BC ALE TRAIL

Whistler Village Beer Festival • Whistler

September 14

The 11th annual Whistler Village Beer Festival, presented by Gibbons Whistler & Brewhalla,  is returning in September 2024. The main event will feature 40+ craft beverage manufacturers and over 80 varieties of craft beverages, including beer, cider, and seltzers to sample at the iconic Olympic Plaza, with the mountains as your backdrop. Complete with food trucks, live music, interactive activities and thousands of fellow festival lovers, this event is always an incredible time.

vALEfest • Valemount

September 13

Tourism Valemount Society invites you to experience vALEfest 2025! This outdoor craft beer festival is set to take place at the Canoe Mountain Rodeo Grounds in Valemount, BC. A vibrant celebration of mountain culture, craft beer, and community spirit. Enjoy thirst-quenching craft brews, foodie delights, and the dynamic live musical performance from headlining act Five Alarm Funk.

Shuttles will be available to and from the event.

Shuswap Brewers Fest • Salmon Arm

September 13

The Shuswap Brewers Fest is a celebration of locally made craft beer, cider, and spirits. This event will bring together community, supporting local businesses and highlighting what the Shuswap region has to offer in the beverage industry. There will be live music, food trucks, entertainment, and beverage vendors. This event is a fundraiser for the Salmon Arm Rescue Society as they upgrade equipment to match the heightened demand on the area’s highways with first responder calls.

Oliver’s Cask & Keg Festival is back bigger and better than ever! Take part in the exciting Beer Olympics sponsored by Firehall Brewery. Taste the passion behind local Okanagan craft brews, ciders, and spirits. Indulge in delicious ‘food truck’ food and dance to live music. Cask & Keg is a day-time family-friendly event focused on celebrating the creations of local and regional breweries, cideries, and distilleries.

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Steveston Beer Festival • Steveston

September 20

The annual Steveston Beer Fest will be held at the historic Gulf of Georgia Cannery in Steveston. Partial proceeds from this event will support the Richmond Christmas Fund and other local non-profit groups. The Beer Fest will host approximately forty booths and will showcase craft beer from around BC, the United States and other countries from around the world. This event is intended to entice those who are new to craft beer as well as the experienced palate.

 

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White Rock Craft Beer Festival • White Rock

September 20

White Rock’s favourite fall event is back! Join the breweries and food vendors at the beautiful White Rock waterfront for this fun and festive event.

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Penticton Beer Week • Penticton

September 26 – October 4

Get ready for a full week jam-packed with events for beer lovers everywhere. Penticton’s craft breweries, known collectively as the Penticton Beer Blocks, include some of BC’s oldest craft breweries and some of BC’s newest craft breweries.

There will be events at each of the breweries as well as at restaurants and other venues around town. This is the perfect time to explore Penticton’s exciting craft beer scene.

 

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BrewLoops • Kamloops

October 3 – 4

BrewLoops 2025 is Kamloops’ premier beer, music, and culture festival—an unforgettable multi-day celebration of craft beer, live entertainment, and community spirit. Since 2014, this non-profit event has brought together breweries and cideries from across BC, along with music, theatre, food, bike tours, and block parties that light up the city. More than just a good time, BrewLoops supports local arts and culture through partnerships with Western Canada Theatre and Rotary West, contributing over $75,000 to community causes to date.

Don’t forget to stop by the BC Ale Trail Booth and say ‘hi!’ – and be sure to check in on our mobile app to collect bonus points!

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BC Craft Brewers Conference • New Westminster

October 16 – 17

Bringing together BC’s craft brewing community for a weekend of seminars, building community connections, and celebration. Tickets on sale now!

BC Beer Awards & Festival • Vancouver

October 17

Sample a variety of BC craft beers while you cheer on your favourite breweries at the annual awards ceremony. Awards will be presented for 30+ beer categories plus top awards including Best in Show, the CBC Judge’s Choice, Rookie of the Year, Brewery of the Year, Innovator of the Year and The Legend Award, as well as the Creative Industry Awards, recognizing breweries for crafting unique items and experiences that enhance the craft beer lovers’ brand awareness.

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Grab your tickets, your fellow craft beer lovers and start planning your festival outfits!

No matter where your ale-ventures take you this year, be sure to share your experiences by tagging @BCAleTrail – and always enjoy responsibly.

The post 2025 Autumn Ale-ventures: The Ultimate BC Fall Beer Festival Guide appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

Maybe it’s the way the vineyards catch the light or the warm breeze that rolls in from the valley floor. But for hundreds of people this summer, July means one thing: the Hop to Vine Hustle. Equal parts fun run, wine tasting, brewery crawl, and finish-line dance party, this lighthearted event is helping put Creston on the map as one of BC’s hidden gems for food, drink, and community connection.

Returning on July 5, 2025, the Hop to Vine Hustle is organized by the Creston Valley Libation Producers Society and led by Lisa Wood, co-owner of Wild North Brewing Co. The event blends fun and fitness with a true sense of community pride. Featuring eight tasting locations spread along an 11-kilometre scenic route and a lively after-party in Millennium Park, the Hustle is one of the Creston Valley’s biggest summer events.

“We just want people to have fun. We tell people: take your time, walk, enjoy yourself, enjoy Creston, and come back to visit us again,” Lisa shares. “We really just hope people finish the event feeling good about themselves!”

Sip, Sample, Stroll, and Dance it Out

The Hop to Vine Hustle isn’t your typical race. For starters, it’s not really a race at all. Most participants walk (or dance) the full route, many run it, enjoying eight complimentary libation tastings, snacks, and opportunities to win prizes along the way. Stops include two local breweries, four wineries, a distillery and a bonus ‘Sangria with a view’ station after the route’s steepest incline. Those providing the libations this year are Baillie Grohman Estate Winery, Skimmerhorn Winery and Vineyard, Wild North Brewing Co., Red Bird Estate Winery, William Tell Family Estate, Sternwheeler Craft Distillery and Columbia Brewery.

Costumes are encouraged, and contagious laughter is guaranteed. The route winds through downtown Creston and the surrounding areas, offering scenic views and a casual atmosphere. Everything culminates in the finish line After Party at Millennium Park with food trucks, live music, massage booths, and a tasting garden. Instead of medals, finishers each receive a branded glass to use at the celebration.

There are limited tickets still available for this year’s event. Participants can choose between a full entry package with access to all eight tasting stops, snacks, a picnic lunch, and entry to the After Party, or just join in the celebrations at Millennium Park with a dedicated After Party ticket.

Wild North Brewing is a Community Hub

Lisa’s commitment to the community is at the heart of everything she does.

Wild North Brewing, which she co-founded with her husband Craig, occupies a renewed former transit depot in the centre of Creston. Launched during the pandemic, the brewery quickly became a welcoming gathering place where locals could meet, share quality craft beer, and enjoy the kind of conversation that strengthens community ties.

Wild North has always been more than just a taproom. Rooted in their love for the Creston Valley, Lisa and Craig set out to make beer that reflects the community around them. From food vendors and wineries to local trades and artisans, Wild North brews are a collaborative effort. Every pint tells a story of the Valley, filled with friendship, adventure, and really great beer.

This desire to elevate the region is what inspired the creation of the Creston Valley Libation Producers Society. Together, producers share ideas, support one another’s events, and promote the Creston Valley as a worthy destination. It’s grassroots tourism, built one partnership at a time.

Community Impact and Small Business Support

The impact of the Hop to Vine Hustle reaches far beyond the breweries and wineries. In past years, over 50% of event attendees have been from out of town, which means more overnight stays, more meals in local restaurants, and more opportunities for small businesses to shine.

“Partly to beat the heat, partly to give attendees more time to explore Creston, we start earlier in the day and wrap up the After Party by 5 pm, leaving lots of time for people to get out and enjoy even more of Creston,” Lisa notes. “We want to spread the love around. Let the whole community benefit from the event!”

The event does more than support the local economy. It builds connection. The Hop to Vine Hustle is a clear example of what’s possible when local businesses, volunteers, and organizers rally around a shared vision. It has quickly become a standout on Creston’s summer calendar.

“This event brings people together,” Lisa says. “We’re seeing new faces in town. They’re staying overnight, they’re eating dinner here, and they’re coming back to visit us again and again.”

The Society’s efforts extend throughout the year. From the success of past Creston Libations Tour Passports to ongoing collaborations among the wineries, distilleries, and breweries, their focus remains on strengthening the Valley’s identity and inviting others to experience it firsthand.

Helping Visitors Discover the Real Creston

Creston may not be the first name that comes to mind when you think of wine or beer destinations in BC, but that’s exactly why it’s worth the road trip. With unexpected natural beauty, warm hospitality, and a growing roster of passionate producers, this corner of the Kootenays is carving out a space for itself on the craft beverage map.

From vineyard views and mountain hikes to local sips and bites and a walkable downtown core, Creston has all the charm of a small town with a whole lot of flavour. The Hop to Vine Hustle is just one of many reasons to visit.

Whether you’re lacing up your runners and donning a tutu for the full 11K route or just showing up for the After Party, this July 5 is your chance to experience the Valley at its most vibrant. Get your tickets, pack your costume, and raise a glass with the people who are proud to call Creston home.

Plan Your Stay in the Creston Valley
Ready to experience the Hop to Vine Hustle and everything else the Creston Valley has to offer? Make the most of your visit by staying beyond the race and immersing yourself in the breathtaking scenery and warm hospitality this region is known for. From comfortable hotels and motels to charming bed and breakfasts with personalized service, or serene RV parks and campgrounds for those who prefer connecting with nature, Creston has accommodations to suit every traveller.

Explore more of the Creston Valley: Hike scenic trails, paddle along serene rivers, or perfect your swing on lush golf courses. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound for birders and wildlife lovers. Discover the world-renowned wetlands of the Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area, vast mountain forests, and the majestic Kootenay Lake. Savour more local flavours and farm-fresh delights at charming fruit stands and local farms, and immerse yourself in local culture at museums & galleries.

Want to learn more about the Hop to Vine Hustle, Wild North Brewing, or visiting the Creston Valley? Head to Explore Creston Valley or Wild North Brewing for more info.

Every Pint Tells a Story

Supporting Local. Celebrating Community.

The post From Hops to Heart: Creston’s Hop to Vine Hustle Brings the Community Together appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

After an incredible spring lineup of must-visit beer festivals, we’re doubling down with another roster of events stretching through the summer. From a long list of BC’s finest breweries, plus local cideries, artisan distilleries, and thoughtfully crafted non-alcoholic alternatives, this season’s festival circuit has something for every palate. Get ready to discover your next favourite brew while soaking up the best of what BC’s craft beer scene has to offer.

Squamish Beer Festival • Squamish

June 21

Located at the Loggers Sports Ground, the Squamish festival brings together more than 55 breweries and cideries for craft beer lovers to celebrate great beer and mountain culture with food, games, axe throwing, DJs, live music, and more.

Parksville Beer Festival • Parksville

July 5

Indulge in your love for craft beer, connect with like-minded individuals, and support local businesses, all within a festival atmosphere curated for enjoyment and discovery. At the Parksville Beer Festival, it’s not just about exceptional beers – it’s also a haven for foodies! Get ready to complement your craft beer experience with a fantastic selection from the specially curated food trucks.

Be sure to stop by the BC Ale Trail booth to say ‘Hi!’ – and don’t forget to log in to the mobile app to check in and collect bonus points!

VCBW Craft Beer, Music and Wing Fest • Vancouver

July 12

Featuring over 150 craft beers, 20 local wines, 10 craft ciders, and 30 non-alcoholic beers. Plus live music, chef pop-ups, and a Michelada showdown.

New this year: Wing Fest! This is NOT your typical chicken wing festival—this is a curated showcase of the best wings in the city, crafted by top restaurants and designed to pair perfectly with Vancouver’s finest craft beers. Wing lovers and beer enthusiasts alike will come together to experience bold flavours & creative recipes. Get ready for Vancouver’s ultimate WING showdown.

Cheesecrafters Beer Fest • Maple Ridge

July 13

Join the folks at Golden Ears Cheesecrafters for an afternoon filled with cheese, snacks, craft brews and other drinks, pairing seminars, live music, games and more!

Farmhouse Fest • UBC Farm

August 9

A celebration of Saison, Sour, Lambic, Wild Ale, & Cider held at UBC Farm. From classic Saisons and Fruited Sours, to 3-year-old spontaneously fermented Lambic and Cider, there is something for everyone from breweries from BC and around the world. To mix it up, there will be some fun selections of Natural Wine, Kombucha, and plenty of ‘off-style’ beers to take a break from the wild and funky.

BCNE Trade Route Ale Festival • Prince George

August 16 – 17

The BC Northern Exhibition is a 3-day fair featuring events, including Super Dogs and 4H demonstrations, a midway, pro rodeo, and now a beer festival! Tickets for the third annual beer – and cider! – festival include gate admission to the BCNE, five tasting tokens and a charcuterie cup.

Photos from 2023 event – breweries in attendance are subject to change.

Cowichan Craft Beer and Food Festival • Chemainus

August 16

Enjoy craft beer and cider, and tasty non-alcohol options, artisan food, and live music. There will be free shuttles running from nearby neighbourhoods to ensure a safe ride home for everyone. New this year: upgrade your ticket to include access to the After Party! After a day at the festival, enjoy full-sized brews, ciders, or mixed drinks in a chill environment filled with music and delicious food trucks well into the night.

Battle of the Brews • Surrey

August 16

The Surrey Fire Fighters’ Charitable Society and 93.7 JR Country are hosting the 7th Annual Battle of the Brews.  This fun charity event will offer attendees a great afternoon of craft beer tasting and food trucks.  Attendees will get the chance to help choose their favourite beers, and all proceeds from the event will help fund Surrey Fire Fighters’ Charitable Society youth initiatives.

The post 2025 Summer Beer Festivals in BC appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

It’s time to start planning your spring and early summer BC ale-ventures, and what better way to kick things off than with a beer festival?

Make 2025 the year you turn a craft beer festival into a full-fledged getaway. Picture this: a weekend escape where dozens of craft breweries (and maybe even a cidery and distillery or two) come together at one venue, offering tastings of their latest and greatest releases alongside delicious local food, live music, and the company of fellow craft beer enthusiasts.

Why just attend a festival when you can build an entire vacation around it? Explore BC’s diverse regions, support local businesses, and discover the unique character each community brings to their brewing scene. Don’t forget to check out the Sip & Stay packages that pair perfectly with your festival plans!

Here are the must-attend craft beer festivals on the calendar for spring and early summer 2025. Stay tuned for summer and fall festival announcements coming soon.

Start planning your next beer-themed weekend adventure to experience these exceptional events.

Okanagan Fest of Ale • Penticton

April 11 – 12

The Okanagan Fest of Ale has been bringing together craft beer lovers and craft brewers to celebrate the almighty ale since 1996! Every April, Penticton is host to one of the largest and longest-running annual beer festivals in the Pacific Northwest. This two-day event features great entertainment, fabulous food and the opportunity to sample a diverse array of quality craft beverages.

Since its inception, over $850,000 in net proceeds has been gifted back to local charitable organizations!

Brewhalla Beer & Music Festival • North Vancouver

April 11

Brewhalla is back at the Shipyards on Vancouver’s North Shore for another year of tasty brews and musical vibes. Sip and sample local craft beer, wine, cider, seltzers, spirits & non-alcoholic options while discovering new artists and dancing the day away. Brewhalla is all about connecting and celebrating the best of the best in our communities! Again this year, partial proceeds from Brewhalla events will go towards the KPU Brewing Scholarship to help someone achieve their dream of becoming a brewer.

Be sure to check out the transit and safe ride options listed on the Brewhalla website – getting to the festival and back home safely has never been easier.

Search for the Perfect Pint • Port Moody

May 2

The Search For the Perfect Pint features dozens of breweries and food vendors for you to sample. This is an all-inclusive festival: no tokens needed!

Not only is this a celebration of great craft beer, but it’s also a major fundraising event for the Port Moody Rotary Club. All proceeds go directly back into the community to support local charitable organizations.

Langley Craft Beverage Week

May 9 – 18

This nine-day run of events by the craft beverage community returns to Langley in May. Events kick off with the 2025 collab beer launch at Locality Brewing, and then continue with special events at The Barley Merchant, Brookswood Brewing, Dead Frog Brewery, Farm Country Brewing,  Five Roads Brewing, Fraser Valley Cider Company, Roots & Wings Distillery, Trading Post Brewing, and Smugglers’ Trail Caskworks, and a wrap-up party at Camp Beer Co. on the 18th. And don’t forget about Brewhalla  Fort Langley happening on May 17th!

Stay tuned for more details as plans are finalized in the coming weeks. 

Kelowna Beerfest • Kelowna

May 10

A summer kick-off party with all of your favourite breweries, food trucks, games and local musicians, just steps from the beach in the heart of downtown Kelowna. The event offers two tasting sessions and will feature up to 50 breweries and cideries from around BC.

Brewhalla Beer & Music Festival • Fort Langley

May 17

This popular annual event welcomes more than 30 local BC craft breweries, cideries, wineries, and distilleries, along with two live music stages, food trucks, games, attractions, and more.

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Squamish Beer Festival • Squamish

June 21

Located at the Loggers Sports Ground, the Squamish festival brings together more than 55 breweries and cideries for craft beer lovers to celebrate great beer and mountain culture with food, games, axe throwing, DJs, live music, and more. Early-bird ticket prices are available until April 30.

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Grab your tickets, your fellow craft beer lovers and start planning your festival outfits!

No matter where your ale-ventures take you this year, be sure to share your experiences by tagging @BCAleTrail – and always enjoy responsibly. Cheers!

The post 2025 Spring Beer Festivals in BC appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

I’ll try not to bore you with too many details and, if you’re impatient, you can just skip to the end and find out about the best Oktoberfest celebrations in BC. But I must warn you, if you do that, you may be robbing yourself of some important Oktoberfest knowledge that could come in handy over the next couple of weeks. You wouldn’t want to get caught with your lederhosen down when your friends at the Wiesn yell “Oans, zwoa, drei, g’suffa!”*

While we in North America often think of Oktoberfest as a two-week-long bender in the streets of Germany filled with people in silly costumes, the reality is a bit more nuanced. 

It all started way back in 1810 when Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria and Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen had a Bavarian royal wedding. It was the first royal wedding held in Munich in almost a century, making it a particularly special occasion. But it was also a chance for the newly formed Kingdom of Bavaria (est. 1806) to demonstrate its National pride.

As with any good wedding, when the ceremony is over you need to celebrate with… a horse race? Okay, remember, this is 1810. They did things a little differently. They also celebrated with music, a free opera, a play, and, of course, beer. This folk festival was held in the meadow outside the city gates in an area that was renamed Theresienwiese (Theresa’s Fields) to honour the princess. That name still stands today but has been abbreviated by locals to Wiesn, which is what they also use to refer to modern-day Oktoberfest.

I told you you’d learn some great facts!

Of course, when a great party is thrown there needs to be a sequel, so, in subsequent years the horse races and folk festival continued, commemorating the Royal wedding, but they also added other activities like tree climbing, bowling and carnival booths through the early 1800’s. 

While beer has always been a central part of Oktoberfest, the iconic beer tents didn’t appear until the late 19th century. The oldest and longest-running beer tent, Schottenhamel Festhalle, opened its festival doors in 1867 with a modest 50-seat venue but in 1886, they expanded by adding a canvas tent on the Theresienwiese.

Schottenhamel also holds a special significance beyond its longevity. Since 1950, it has been the official starting point for Oktoberfest. Each year, at noon on opening day, a 12-gun salute echoes through the air as the Mayor of Munich taps the first keg and proclaims “Ozapft is” (“it is tapped“) to the cheering crowd. The mayor then presents the first maßkrug (1-litre stein) of beer to the Minister-President of the State of Bavaria and Oktoberfest is officially underway.

But why is Oktoberfest partially in September and why do the dates change every year? 

For a country known for its precision and accuracy, they’re pretty laissez-faire when it comes to setting dates for the world’s biggest beer celebration. Well, it’s actually pretty simple, Oktoberfest always ends on the first Sunday in October and begins on the preceding Saturday, two weeks prior. The only exception occurs when Tag der Deutschen Einheit (German Unity Day), which is on October 3, falls on the Monday following Oktoberfest’s conclusion. In this case, they extend the festival one day to coincide with the National holiday.

This still doesn’t answer why Oktoberfest is primarily celebrated in September though! 

That’s an easy answer as well….weather. Bavaria is cold in October. The original festival ran from October 12 to 17, but as it grew and the dates were extended, organizers decided to move it to the current dating system to allow for longer, warmer nights that are experienced in September.

But What About The Beer?

Traditionally, and for about a century, the official beer of the festivities had been a Märzen, an amber-coloured malt-rich pale lager with an aroma and flavour resembling toasted bread or biscuits. However, this designation has become a little more ambiguous in recent years. Some people argue that it’s now a festbier, a lighter and less toasty version of a Märzen. Others maintain that the Märzen remains the standard, while still others contend that there is no official style at all. Regardless of the specific style, one thing remains constant: all Oktoberfest beers must adhere to Reinheitsgebot, the German Beer Purity Law. 

Reinheitsgebot, say it with me…”rine-hites-kuh-bowt”, mandates that brewers use only water, malted barley, hops, and yeast in their beer. Sorry, marshmallow fruited sours, you’re a no-go in Deutschland. In fact, if you’re a brewery in Germany and you don’t follow Reinheitsgebot you legally cannot call your product “bier”.

To add another layer of complexity, the beer served at Oktoberfest in Munich must not only adhere to Reinheitsgebot but also be brewed within the city limits. Only six breweries currently meet these stringent requirements: Augustiner, Hacker-Pschor, Hofbräuhaus, Löwenbräu, Paulaner, and Spaten.

Although I’ve had the pleasure of visiting Munich and sampling brews at some of the famous beer halls, I’ve unfortunately yet to experience the full spectacle of an authentic Oktoberfest. It’s definitely on my beer-ket list though, as I’m sure it is for most ale aficionados. Fortunately for us beer nerds in BC, we have a plethora of great Oktoberfest events to partake in. With that beautiful segue, here’s a list of all the remaining Oktoberfest celebrations over the next couple of weeks. See you there! PROST!

*”one, two, three, drink!”

Oktoberfest Events Around BC

Oktoberfest Features at Black Kettle Brewing (North Vancouver) • September 12 – October 6

Featuring authentic Munich beer: an Oktoberfest Marzen from Hacker Pschorr, as well as house-brewed German beers and a German-inspired food menu.

Oktoberfest Feature Menu at BREWHALL (Vancouver) • September 12 – October 2

The Feature menu includes returning favourites, a new Bratwurst board, and limited release beer.

Oktoberfest at Parallel 49 Brewing Company (Vancouver) • September 20 – October 5

Featuring: A tented biergarten; live music Thursdays – Saturdays; German-style food, beer and music; prizes for best dressed.

Oktoberfest Feature Menu at Howe Sound Brewing (Squamish, New Westminster and East Vancouver) • September 21 – October 6

Feature menu includes:  fresh baked pretzels with mustard and bratwurst, and two beer specials.

Oktoberfest Feature Menu at Main St Brewing (Vancouver) • September 21 – October 6

Feature menu by Rosie’s BBQ and Smokehouse includes their take on Bavarian classics like pretzels and beer cheese sauce, bratwurst, schnitzel and currywurst with a special ham hock dinner available only on the weekends. On the beer side, look for special Oktoberfest brew releases.

Oktoberfest at Two Peaks Brewing (Kitimat) • September 25 – 28

Featuring: A full Oktoberfest-inspired menu – Oktoberfest attire highly encouraged!

Oktoberfest at Trading Post Brewing (Langley) September 27 and October 4

Featuring: German beer fest flights, German food, a live oom-pah-pah band, costume contest and more. Food and reserved seating are limited – walk-ins are welcome, but to ensure a table for your group book tickets at the link above to reserve a table and German Platter(s).

Oktoberfest at BNA Brewing (Kelowna) • September 27 & 28

Featuring: Traditional Bavarian music, a special Oktoberfest menu from BNA Burger, an exclusive Festbier and more

Oktoberfest at Beva Brewing & Blending (North Vancouver) • September 28

Featuring: Oktoberfest-themed food specials, pretzels, a new Festbier and two more beer releases. The brewhouse will be open for extra seating.

Oktoberfest at Five Roads Brewing (Langley) • September 28

Featuring: A German-inspired food menu, music, beers and good times. Call to make a reservation: 604-539-6754

Oktoberfest at Kelowna Beer Institute (Kelowna) • September 28

Featuring: A German-inspired menu, beer, steins, and, yes, giant pretzels. Oh, and Felix will be back for another year.

Oktoberfest at Lakesider Brewing (Kelowna) • September 28 and 29

Featuring: New beer release, German food, games and prizes, live music on Saturday. Wear your lederhosen and bring your stein!

Oktobeer Feast at Mayne Island Brewing • September 28 and 29

Feature menu for the weekend includes artisan Bavarian eats from Das Nest Restaurant, paired with six German-inspired beers.

Oktoberfest at Old Yale Brewing Abbotsford • September 28

Featuring: Live music, best dress competition, stien holding competition, an exclusive Festbier and Oktoberfest-inspired food features

Oktoberfest at Railside Brewing (Kelowna) • September 28

Featuring: Special release Fest Das Bier, BBQ Bratwurst and music

Steel & Oaktoberfest at Steel & Oak Brewing (New Westminster) • September 28

Featuring: 8 German beers, both flagship favourites and limited releases, with great deals on German beer flights and glasses; German-insipired food from Between 2 Buns; a pretzel bar; extra banquet hall seating; Bavarian decorations; a costume contest, and beer stein holding competition.

Oktoberfest at The Beer Farmers (Pemberton) • September 28

Featuring: New beer release: Country Gold Märzen; bratwurst, sauerkraut, gingerbread soft serve, and a live 3-piece Oktoberfest band from 4-6 PM

Oktoberfest at Sidekick Brewing (Chilliwack) • September 29

Featuring: limited edition steins available for purchase, live music, games, challenges and prizes, a special beer release and feature Oktoberfest menu. Costumes highly encouraged!

Note: this is a ticketed event – get yours at the link above. 

‘r’Oktobeerfest at Shore Line Brewing (Kelowna) • October 4 – 6

Featuring: A non-traditional Oktoberfest with live music all weekend, new beer release, Bavarian food specials, and more.

Oktoberfest at Salt Spring Brewery (Salt Spring Island) • October 5

Featuring: A special menu from South End Sausage, a specially brewed cask, music, and more. Dressing up is encouraged, but not mandatory.

Oktoberfest at Sooke Brewing Company (Sooke) • October 5

Featuring: Randy’s Rod Dogs will be on site serving up Bratwurst alongside tasty brews and and pretzels.

Oktoberfest at Another Beer Co (New Westminster) • October 6

Details to come!

Oktoberfest at Abandoned Rail Brewing Co (Penticton) • October 12

Featuring: Live music, food trucks, traditional beer hall tables and a dance floor – all under an Oktoberfest festzelt (tent) in the barley fields. Tickets include your beer, shuttles to and from the Lakeside Resort, and an exclusive stein.
NOTE: this is a ticketed event, with two seatings available. Tickets available at the link above.

The post From Tradition to Celebration: The History of Oktoberfest and Local Events to Toast the Season appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

We kicked off this spring with a calendar full of road-trip-worthy beer festivals, and the list for the summer and fall just keeps on growing! With breweries from BC and across Canada, cideries, even a distillery or two and of course some tasty non-alcoholic options, there is plenty to look forward to.

Cheesecrafters Beer Fest • Maple Ridge

July 21

Join the folks at Golden Ears Cheesecrafters for an afternoon filled with cheese, snacks, craft brews and other drinks, pairing seminars, live music, games and more!

CrossRoads Summer Street Fest • Prince George

July 27; September 7

Summer street parties are back with live music, craft beer, delicious food, and fun! Featuring a diverse lineup of bands from across Canada, these events are held on the cross roads between historic 5th Ave and George St in downtown Prince George.

Chilling in the Park Beer Festival • Vancouver

July 27

Join the Mount Pleasant BIA for this free event in Dude Chilling Park, featuring local indie bands, some of the city’s best craft breweries, and local restaurant pop-ups (including BBQ from The Pleasant).

Phillips Backyard Music Festival • Victoria

August 9 – 11

An electrifying outdoor music festival held in the heart of one of Victoria’s best-known breweries. Beer, non-alc beer, mocktails as well as vodka and gin canned cocktails will be available alongside a lineup of entertainment sure to keep you moving.

Brewhalla New West • New Westminster

August 10

Brewhalla’s well-known festival series is coming to New West this summer with a “Life on the River” theme. There will be a best-dressed contest, a new paddleboard available to win, ride-on surf challenge, games, live music, and more. Alongside an extensive beer and cider lineup, you’ll also find an enticing non-alc bar, and rides back to the skytrain will be available for a safe way home.

Farmhouse Fest • UBC

August 10

A celebration of Saison, Sour, Lambic, Wild Ale, & Cider held at UBC Farm. From classic Saisons and Fruited Sours, to 3-year-old spontaneously fermented Lambic and Cider, there is something for everyone from breweries from BC, and around the world. To mix it up there will be some fun selections of Natural Wine, Kombucha, and plenty of ‘off-style’ beers to take a break from the wild and funky.

Vancouver Mural Festival • Vancouver

August 10 – 11

This year, the BC Ale Trail is proud to present the Craft & Canvas Corner at the Vancouver Mural Festival. Part beer garden, part beer festival, enjoy sips from your favourite local breweries and breweries from around BC. Enjoy the live graffiti art around you, with walls being transformed as part of the 7th Annual Holden Courage Graffiti Jam, or watch as a local artist creates a new beer label live!

BCNE Trade Route Ale Festival • Prince George

August 16 – 17

The BC Northern Exhibition is a 3-day fair featuring events, including Super Dogs and 4H demonstrations, a mid-way, pro rodeo, and now a beer festival! The second annual beer fest offers three different tasting sessions, featuring local breweries and cideries. Tickets on sale now.

Cowichan Craft Beer and Food Festival • Chemainus

August 17

Enjoy craft beer and cider, and tasty non-alcohol options, artisan food, and live music. There will be free shuttles running from nearby neighbourhoods, to ensure a safe ride home for everyone. And don’t forget to come by the BC Ale Trail booth to say hi!

Battle of the Brews • Surrey

August 17

The Surrey Fire Fighters’ Charitable Society and 93.7 JR Country are hosting the 6th Annual Battle of the Brews.  This fun charity event will offer attendees a great afternoon of craft beer tasting and food trucks.  Attendees will get the chance to help choose their favourite beers and all proceeds from the event will help fund Surrey Fire Fighters’ Charitable Society youth initiatives.

Great Canadian Beer Festival • Victoria

September 6 – 7

Celebrate the 30th Anniversary of one of BC’s most iconic festivals at a brand new location this year! This legendary beer festival not only showcases the incredible roster of craft breweries in BC but stretches coast to coast, flying in beers from across Canada that you can’t try anywhere else. GCBF is a tasting festival that focusses on having a diverse line up for you to choose from, this year will bring in over 200+ craft beers and cider for you to sip. In addition to exploring the best craft beer Canada has to offer, GCBF provides fun entertainment and yummy food from local vendors.

Silver Star Beer & Cider Fest • Silver Star Mountain

September 7

Celebrate Oktoberfest early this year with Silver Star’s signature craft beer and cider event— a great après to a summer of adventure. Sip some of BC’s finest brews, and enjoy food, a Polson Market pop-up, live music, games, and plenty of fun.

Barnside Harvest Festival • Ladner

September 13 – 15

The second annual, three-day festival in Ladner will feature live music from some of Canada’s most iconic bands, including the Glorious Sons, Sam Roberts Band and Loverboy. Along with tasty craft brews, the festival will include a charity BBQ to benefit the Delta Firefighters Charitable Society, plus a multitude of food trucks; an artisan market;  the Delta Heritage Pavilion; the dog-friendly Paw Pals pavilion on Sunday afternoon; and so much more.

Whistler Village Beer Festival • Whistler

September 14

The 11th annual Whistler Village Beer Festival, presented by Gibbons Whistler & Brewhalla,  is returning September 2024. The main event will feature 40+ craft beverage manufacturers and over 80 varieties of craft beverages, including beer, cider, and seltzers to sample at the iconic Olympic Plaza, with the mountains as your backdrop. Complete with food trucks, live music, interactive activities and thousands of fellow festival lovers, this event is always an incredible time.

vALEfest • Valemount

September 14

Stay tuned for details!

Shuswap Brewers Fest • Salmon Arm

September 14

The Shuswap Brewers Fest is a celebration of locally made craft beer, cider, and spirits. This event will bring together community supporting local businesses and highlighting what our region has to offer in the beverage industry. There will be live music, food trucks, entertainment, and beverage vendors. This event is a fundraiser for the Salmon Arm Rescue Society as they upgrade equipment to match the heightened demand on the area’s highways with first responder calls.

Fraser Valley Distillery & Beer Festival • Chilliwack

September 21

The Fraser Valley Distillery & Beer Festival is a unique event that combines lively entertainment and delicious food with the finest artisan spirits, liquors and seasonal brews. The 7th annual event appeals to a wide audience and is designed to bring the community together for one night to raise money for the Chilliwack Academy of Music, a community music school.

Oliver’s Cask & Keg Festival is back bigger and better than ever! Take part in the exciting Beer Olympics sponsored by Firehall Brewery. Taste the passion behind local Okanagan craft brews, ciders, and spirits. Indulge in delicious ‘food truck’ food and dance to live music. Cask & Kegis a day-time family-friendly event focused on celebrating the creations of local and regional breweries, cideries, and distilleries.

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Steveston Beer Festival • Steveston

September 21

The annual Steveston Beer Fest will be held at the historic Gulf of Georgia Cannery in Steveston. Partial proceeds from this event will support the Richmond Christmas Fund and other local non-profit groups. The Beer Fest will host approximately forty booths and will showcase craft beer from around BC, the United States and other countries from around the world. This event is intended to entice those who are new to craft beer as well as the experienced palate.

 

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Cranbrook Beer Festival • Cranbrook

September (TBC)

Bringing the spirit of GCBF, Cranbrook Beer Festival will give you the experience of tasting Canadian craft beer from coast to coast in the basecamp of the Kootenay Rockies. Stay tuned for more details for the 2024 event.

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Penticton Beer Week • Penticton

October 4 – 14

Get ready for a full week jam-packed with events for beer lovers everywhere. This year marks the 6th Annual Penticton Beer Week, also known as the Penticton Block Party. Penticton has a dynamic beer scene with eight craft breweries, known as the Penticton Beer Blocks, including some of BC’s oldest craft breweries and some of BC’s newest craft breweries.

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Brewhalla Beer & Music Festival • Chilliwack

October 5

The ever-popular Brewhalla Beer & Music Festival is back in the Fraser Valley this fall. Sure to be a day of music, craft beer, games and good times.

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BC Craft Brewers Conference • New Westminster

October 17 – 18

Bringing together BC’s craft brewing community for a weekend of seminars, building community connections, and celebration. Tickets going on sale soon!

BC Beer Awards & Festival • Vancouver

October 19

Sample a variety of BC craft beers while you cheer on your favourite breweries at the annual awards ceremony. Awards will be presented for 30+ beer categories plus top awards including Best in Show, the CBC Judge’s Choice, Rookie of the Year, Brewery of the Year, Innovator of the Year and The Legend Award, as well as the Creative Industry Awards, recognizing breweries for crafting unique items and experiences that enhance the craft beer lovers’ brand awareness.

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Grab your tickets, your fellow craft beer lovers and start planning your festival outfits!

No matter where your ale-ventures take you this year, be sure to share your experiences by tagging @BCAleTrail or #BCAleTrail – and always enjoy responsibly.

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