Whether you’re looking for notes of treacle in an Imperial stout or the lineup for the Bud Girl dunk tank, there’s an event this summer for everyone who enjoys the sun, food and the full gamut of beer culture.
TORONTO FESTIVAL OF BEER
July 27 to 29, CNE Bandshell Park, beerfestival.ca
With over 200 brands on site, this is the big one. Great Lakes’ Caskapalooza is back, Mill Street hosts a carnival, and there are lots of tasting opportunities for fans of mainstream brands. Barbecue guru Ted Reader demonstrates at the grilling tent for those who demand ‘cue with their brew, and the old-timey bandshell will be rocking with name acts. Geek out with Niagara College’s Brewmaster’s Series or visit Quebec at the World of Beer Pavilion. Beer here or be square.
STOP BEER GARDEN
Most Sundays starting July 8, Wychwood Barns, 601 Christie, thestop.org
Continuing last year’s popular program, the Stop Community Food Centre hosts different local brewers and food vendors.
BREWERS BACKYARD
Sunday (June 17), and monthly until October, Evergreen Brick Works, brewersbackyard.com
Brought to you by the folks who established the Stop Beer Garden. Same idea, same ethics, different location. Held in lovely Koerner Gardens.
ONTARIO CRAFT BEER WEEK
Sunday (June 17) to June 23, various locations, ontariocraftbrewers.com
This association of independent Ontario breweries holds an annual week of local beer hijinks. Numerous fluid Father’s Day events get things started. Preview the taste with the OCB six-pack available at the LCBO.
SESSION 99 CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL
June 23, 99 Sudbury, sessiontoronto.ca
Craft taps galore, with a laudable emphasis on the newest brews. One ticket price gets you three hours of all you can drink and eat.
SUMMER FESTIVAL OF CRAFT BREWERIES
June 22-23, C’est What, 67 Front East, cestwhat.ca/music/summerfestival.asp
One of Toronto’s best beer bars hosts a huge weekend of sampling featuring numerous one-offs and specials by independent breweries. No admission, all samples $1. This year features an 1812 sub-theme: “Halt, who drinks there?”
QUEER BEER FESTIVAL
July 26, CNE Bandshell Park, queerbeerfestival.ca
Basically, the Festival Of Beer, one day early for the LGBT scene. Last year’s band lineup was solid, so be sure to keep tabs on the entertainment for 2012.
