Also available at Monday Magazine.
It doesn’t happen often, but some weeks last for 9 days. Most people wouldn’t be too pleased to have to deal with the two extra days, but when you’re talking about Victoria Beer Week, it’s hard not to get excited at the thought. March 2nd through 10th, the Capital Region welcomes some of the best beer flowing for the 5th Anniversary of what has become a staple in the craft beer community.
I was lucky enough to sit down with Thirsty Writer and Producer of the event, Joe Wiebe, to get a look ahead for what to expect this year, and everything seems to indicate that organizers have definitely hit their stride.
A major change this year should keep people nice and warm, with all of the events happening indoors, taking advantage of what has become home base for the week, the Victoria Public Market. There are still events happening off site, but unpredictable early March weather shouldn’t be a factor anymore.
Returning this year with minimal changes are Brewmasters Brunch and Fishing for Beer (Mar 3), the Homebrewing Workshop and Beer School (Mar 4), and the Ultimate Craft Beer Quiz (Mar 5).
Lift Off! (Mar 2) will move from the tail end of the event right to the forefront in addition to being indoors at the Public Market. Pizzeria Prima Strada plays host once again, with a bit of a change as Beer, Pizza, and Gelato (Mar 5) adds a nice sweet finish. Taco Tuesday (Mar 6) is back and moving indoors to the Public Market with some new vendors likely to take part, and Wednesday is the return of Beer, Cheese, More Beer (Mar 7), with a change to two smaller sessions, which should make for a more relaxed atmosphere. Thursday night marks the return of one of the marquis events from last year, All About The Wood (Mar 8), and it wouldn’t be Victoria Beer Week without a Friday night of casks at the Public Market (Mar 9).
The final Saturday (Mar 10) this year looks both forward and back. Showcasing the present and future for our neighbours to the west, the Sooke Beer Run leverages the great experience that West Coast Brewery Tours provides for a day trip down Highway 14 and back. Then, in the evening, a dressed-up celebration of 5 years of great beer, great events, and all the people involved will fill the Public Market for Hoppy Birthday.
Tickets are available now through Ticket Rocket and victoriabeerweek.com.
Matter of Beer 