Cheers to Culture: Edmonton Beerfest Celebrates Community and Craft

By Avalina Zenari on April 24, 2025

The Edmonton International Beerfest returned to the Edmonton Convention Centre this April, once again transforming the venue into a lively, multi-sensory celebration of beer, music, and community.

Craft breweries and distilleries from across the country showcase their most popular products at the Edmonton Beerfest.

One of Western Canada’s largest beer festivals, the annual event featured more than 500 beers from local and international brewers, paired with live performances, DJs, circus acts and culinary experiences—all designed to entertain beyond just the tap.

“Like every year, we kind of recreate, you know, the atmosphere,” said Sean Farmer, founder and owner of Edmonton International Beerfest. “And what makes us kind of notable is that we always spend a ton of time and attention on the music, the entertainment, and keeping people engaged—because, I mean, there’s a reason you drink beer and it isn’t just because of how good it tastes, right? It’s the culture and the atmosphere it creates.”

Breweries trace back to the 19th century in Edmonton, with microbreweries growing in popularity today.

That culture was on full display throughout the weekend. Long communal tables lined the hall, as strangers became friends over tasting flights and conversations. Food trucks and artisan booths offered everything from gourmet grilled cheese to beer-infused donuts. One stage hosted aerial acrobatics, while another saw a cover band belt out classic rock anthems to a crowd that danced pint glasses in hand.

Festivalgoers like Angelica Gardner say it’s the diversity of brews and the local representation that stand out.

“It’s a great way to explore different craft beers in one place, especially from Alberta-based breweries you might not find in liquor stores,” said Gardner, who has attended the festival several times. “It’s not just about drinking, it’s about discovering the people and passion behind what’s being poured.”

There were over 500 vendors at this year’s festival from across the world sampling products.

For many, the event also highlights the growing craft beer movement in Alberta. Breweries from Edmonton to Canmore used the opportunity to debut seasonal brews and limited-edition releases, drawing attention to the province’s unique beer scene.

This year’s event also saw the return of Beer School, a series of educational sessions where attendees could learn about hops, brewing techniques and food pairings from industry experts. For newcomers and connoisseurs alike, it was a chance to sip and learn.

Beer School supports the culinary arts through offering festival programming from renowned chefs and educators.

With over two decades of history, Edmonton International Beerfest continues to pour more than just pints. The festival fosters connection, creativity and community spirit.

Farmer said planning is already underway for next year’s event, promising even more surprises and special guests.

“If there’s one thing we’ve learned,” he said, “it’s that people don’t just want a drink—they want an experience. And that’s what we’re here to give them.”

Edmonton International Beerfest Festival History by Avalina