Summer beer festivals in Toronto present only one problem — because there are so many to choose from, keeping track of them all actually becomes difficult. And, let's face it, you've already got enough on your plate — what wi...
Summer beer festivals in Toronto present only one problem — because there are so many to choose from, keeping track of them all actually becomes difficult. And, let's face it, you've already got enough on your plate — what with picking out the the right tank top and sunglasses to wear while you patio-hop to kill the time between beer festivals.
So, to take some of the stress out of our collective beer-drinking schedules this summer,
I've compiled a list of the various beer festivals happening in the city so that the biggest decision one has to make is whether or not those slick Wayfarers clash with flip flops.
Toronto's Festival of Beer
What: The big one. Canada's largest annual beer festival will feature beer from over 60 different worldwide brewers featuring over 200 different brands, in addition to wine, cider, and "ready-to-drink" beverages (i.e. coolers and pre-made cocktails). The event also features a "World of Beer Pavillion" featuring food and beer from one region. Last year the pavillion featured Quebec and this year the pavillion will feature beer from the West Coast of North America, i.e beers from British Columbia, Washington State, California and Oregon (can you say IPA?).
When: July 26 - 28
Where: Bandshell Park at The Exhibition Centre
How much: $39.50 for each day. Includes five drink tickets, a glass stein, and a guide to the events. (The Saturday event is already sold out, likely because the Spin Doctors will be on the main stage that night. No, seriously.)
Pro: There will be thousands of people there to party and drink beer over the three day event.
Con: There will be thousands of people there to party and drink beer over the three day event.
Toronto Beer Week
What: By their own admission, the organizers of Toronto Beer Week are "dedicated to the celebration and advancement of the craft beer movement" so don't expect too much Bud Light or Stella. Instead, the week is actually hundreds of events related to locally made craft beer ranging from beer dinners, tasting events, and homebrew competitions. As the week approaches be sure to check their website for an updated list of events and participating venues.
When: September 13 - 21
Where: Various venues across the city.
How much: Costs vary per event
Pro: There are multiple events happening each night of the week so you're sure to find something going on nearby.
Con: There's so many events to choose from it can actually be overwhelming deciding which to attend (We've got you covered though. BlogTO will share our picks for the best bets as TBW approaches).
Beach BBQ & Brews Festival
What: A ribfest featuring BBQ, live blues, rock, and reggae, kid friendly rides, and a beer garden featuring beverages from Kensington Brewing Company, Beau's All Natural Brewing Co., Black Oak, Flying Monkeys, Mill St. Brewery, Nickel Brook, Great Lakes Brewery, Left Field Brewery, and Hogtown.
When: June 14 - 16
Where: Woodbine Park, Coxwell & Lakeshore East
How much: Free
Pro: For those with kids, a day in the park drinking beer and eating barbecue seems like an ideal way to spend father's day weekend.
Con: If you don't live in the Beaches, you're likely looking at least a 30 minute sleepy, beer and rib filled trip back to the nearest subway station.
Ontario Craft Beer Week
What: The fourth annual tribute to Ontario's independent brewers now features over 30 Ontario Craft Breweries pouring local brew at 150 events in over 50 different Ontario communities. Festivities will include food and beer collaborations, tap takeovers, tasting events, brewery tours, cooking demonstrations, beer dinners, contests and more. The week prior to the festival, we'll feature a comprehensive guide to the events occurring right here in Toronto during the week.
When: June 16 - 23
Where: All across Ontario
How much: The cost of events varies.
Pro: It's 150 beer events across the province! There's going to be at least a few you're interested in.
