News and Brews in the Craft Beer Community
Leaders in B.C.’s craft beer community at the Protect B.C. Craft Beer launch event. Photo courtesy of BC Craft Brewers Guild.
Welcome to this month’s edition of News and Brews—a freshly tapped round-up of the latest happenings in the U.S. craft beer scene! We’ll dive into the latest brewery openings and closures, spotlight exciting new brews, and highlight upcoming beer festivals you won’t want to miss. Let’s raise a glass and get into the details:
Noteworthy News
The B.C. Craft Brewers Guild recently launched the “Protect B.C. Craft Beer Campaign,” a bold move advocating for tax reforms that support the backbone of local brewing—independent craft breweries. This initiative aims to dismantle growth barriers and set a fertile ground for the beer industry to flourish, particularly in challenging economic times. Enthusiasts and microbreweries alike can echo their support to safeguard the beloved craft of brewing.
Across the border in Washington State, brewery fans should mark their calendars for their last visit to Another Beer Co. This hidden gem, tucked away in an industrial area, will be hosting a farewell bash September 13th and 14th. It’s a bittersweet close to a creative chapter, so don’t miss your chance to enjoy their unique pours one last time.
New Beginnings and Brewing Awards
The beer buzz grows as Serious Brewing opens in Chemainus Village Square, taking over the former space of Riot Brewing. With a nod to Vancouver Island’s Serious Coffee, this taproom combines the joys of quality coffee with eight distinct beers on tap, plus a charmingly diverse food menu and fine local cider.
Meanwhile, craft brewers across the West Coast are gearing up for the much-anticipated B.C. Beer Awards. Entries are open through August 22nd, with the main event tickets already on sale for October 17th at the Anvil Centre. It’s an opportunity to celebrate the mastery and creativity woven into each brew.
Upcoming Events to Pour Over
Barnside Harvest Festival – Sept 12-14, 2025
Music and beer unite at the Barnside Harvest Festival, featuring performances from Bedouin Soundclash to The Arkells. Expect a festival dedicated to joyous experiences, complete with food trucks, dedicated craft beer corners, and fun for the entire family. Mark your calendars for this brew-filled bash in a sea of melodious soundwaves.
White Rock Craft Beer Festival – Sept 20, 2025
Celebrating its fifth year, the White Rock Craft Beer Festival will host a selection of craft breweries from Metro Vancouver in a waterfront setting. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon sampling diverse ranges of local brews, perfect for both seasoned beer lovers and those new to the craft scene.
Cider Harvest Festival – Sept 21, 2025
Cider enthusiasts mustn’t miss Merridale Cidery and Distillery’s Cider Harvest Festival. It’s a weekend of sipping cider from B.C.’s finest cideries, set amidst orchard-side views, live music, and welcoming camaraderie. The festival includes perks like roundtrip transportation, a tasting glass, and a cider guide.
Mix Pack Highlights
Slow Hand Brewing X John Wright: Wrong Lager
Get your tastebuds ready for the charismatic Wrong Lager, a collaboration between Slow Hand Brewing and John Wright, famed drummer and beer lover. With the foundational spirit of a Bavarian Kellerbier, it’s crisp, slightly cloudy, and finishes with a delightful grassy note. Available at taprooms like Threefold in Vancouver.
Locality Brewing X Sriracha Revolver: Chili Garlic Honey Lager Hot Sauce
The fusion of Locality Brewing and Sriracha Revolver brings a fiery delight with their new Chili Garlic Honey Lager Hot Sauce. This aromatic condiment incorporates Locality’s farm-to-glass Thank You Honey Lager. It’s perfect for those who appreciate locally sourced, spicy innovations. Get yours while the limited batch lasts!
Got a hot tip or a brewery event you think should be on the radar? Reach out to us at BreweriesNearMe.us!
— Kristina Mameli, Beer Enthusiast and Craft Culture Curator
Kristina, a passionate advocate for music and craft beer, navigates the intersection of culture and industry through engaging storytelling and social media.
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