Saint John’s Uptown saw the successful return of the Saint John Beer Fest as beer enthusiasts made their way to the Harbour City for a keg full of East Coast Hospitality and an afternoon of sampling amazing beers, ciders, seltzers, and other ready-to-drink creations from local breweries and distilleries.
~
Saint John’s Trade and Convention Centre was this year’s host of the Saint John Beer Fest. It was great to see the successful return of this annual celebration of community, entertainment, and industry. The Saint John Beer Fest offered a carnival-like experience with games, live performances, and a variety of bottomless beer, ciders, seltzers, and other ready-to-drink creations to sample.
From 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM, festivalgoers immersed themselves in a lively atmosphere filled with the rich aromas of hops and malt. The event offered an extensive selection of adult beverages, featuring local vendors and spotlighting many ciders, seltzers, and other ready-to-drink concoctions alongside their traditional and craft beers. So, whether you are a true beer enthusiast or just beer-curious, there’s a flavour for every palate with over 30 vendors all over New Brunswick like Big Axe Brewery from Nackawic, on the east bank of the Saint John River in New Brunswick, famous for its giant axe, but now equally famous its amazing ales. Peter Cole and his team brought the brewery brand but more importantly, their beer to the Saint John Beer Fest for festivalgoers to sample.
Also, at this year’s event was Off Grid Ales from the rural community of Harvey, known for its rich history, nature, local charm, and now its amazing beer. OG Ales is New Brunswick’s first microbrewery crafting premium ales off-grid using solar energy since 2016 allowing the brewery Net Carbon Neutral. According to festivalgoers they were equally impressed with the beer as they were, the power of the sun, that made it all happen.
One of my personal favorites Picaroons Brewing was also at this year’s event. Their main brewing facility is located along the Saint John River in Fredericton, New Brunswick. Their Roundhouse Patio offers one of the best places in Fredericton to have a pint by the Saint John River. Their other location in the heart of Uptown Saint John is called the General Store, Servers Picaroons’ traditional British-style ales along with amazing East Coast hospitality and what we believe is one of the best watering holes on the East Coast and if you had the opportunity to visit with Amy and her team at the beer fest, you know what we are talking about and why it is our got to place when we are in Saint John.
Trailway Brewing another team favorite was also at this year’s beer fest. For more than a decade Jake Saunders, Dan Mason, and their team have had a passion for hops and producing high-quality, bold, and robust American-style Ales. Although their interests and offerings have broadened in recent years to include styles from wild ales to lagers, that were represented at this year’s Saint John Beer Fest.
Another editorial team favorite making the trip over on the Confederation Bridge to Saint John was Lone Oak Brewing. Known for its top-quality traditional beers, IPAs, Pilsners, Sours, and Stouts, along with its refreshing fruit infused Vodka Seltzers, this craft brewery from Borden-Carleton, Prince Edward Island was a crowd favorite and one of the main reasons we love our road trips to the Island every summer.
The Saint John Beer Fest was an all-encompassing experience that went beyond just sampling beer tasting. It offered an afternoon of live carnival games and engaging social interactions in a vibrant setting. It was the perfect occasion to meet friends new and old, enjoy good times, and participate in fun competitions. Festivalgoers had the opportunity to vote for their favourite brew or beverage in the “Best of the Fest” people’s choice award and the festivalgoer that caught the crowd’s attention with the “Best Dressed” contest.
Each ticket purchased not only supports an industry and those in it but also contributes to a noble cause, supporting the compassionate care provided by Bobby’s Hospice, which is Atlantic Canada’s first 10-bed community palliative care facility for people who need 24-hour, expert care in the final weeks and months of life. Bobby’s Hospice adheres to the highest standards in healthcare yet remains a home away from home for patients and families on this end-of-life journey offering comfort and compassionate care that celebrates life. This integration of festivity and philanthropy embodies the community spirit prevalent in New Brunswick, making it a significant event for both fun-seekers and those looking to make a difference.
The Saint John Beer Fest was a positive representation of New Brunswick’s and Saint John’s vibrant culture and hospitality. Spotlighting the region’s commitment to community, craftsmanship, and celebration of local businesses and industry. We saw this when we attended the Boxcar Country and REA 506 Music Festivals earlier this year. So, as you make your travel plan for 2025, we recommend you consider exploring more of what Saint John has to offer, making your trip a comprehensive experience of enjoyment and discovery for this amazing region and all that it has to offer.
Looking to head to the 2024 edition of the Saint John Beer Fest? If so we recommend going with the VIP experience. It allows you to enjoy an extra hour of access before the general admission to skip the crowds and enjoy the extra time to chat with vendors, sample, and experience the fun activities. Plus, VIP Tables give you an extra hour and an exclusive 10-person table for your group’s home base, perfect for gathering, relaxing, and making the most of the event!
These are our top 10 reasons why the Saint John Beer Fest should be on your festival bucket list for 2025:
#10. A Memorable Night Out
Whether you’re with friends, coworkers, or meeting new people, Saint John Beer Fest offers an unforgettable social experience to cap off the season.
#9. All-Inclusive Fun
Your ticket covers it all—unlimited beer tastings, carnival games, photo booth, snacks, and live entertainment. No extra fees, just nonstop fun from start to finish!
#8. Interactive Photo Opportunities
Snap unforgettable photos at the Freddy photo booth and take home memories that last longer than any beer.
#7. Carnival Fun with a Twist
Enjoy carnival-themed entertainment with games like ring toss, dart games, and more, all set to free play! Perfect for showing off your hidden talents while you enjoy your beer.
#6. Classic Carnival Snacks
Grab some cotton candy and popcorn to munch on as you wander! These tasty, nostalgic treats are the perfect match for a night of beer sampling and good times.
#5. Exclusive VIP Experience
VIP ticket holders enjoy an exclusive first hour (3-4 pm) of the event. Arrive an hour early and enjoy exclusive access to all the brews, games, photo booth, and snacks before the general admission crowd rolls in.
#4. Unlimited Beer Sampling
With bottomless beer included in your ticket price, you’ll have the chance to explore a wide variety of craft brews, discovering new favourites.
#3. Exciting Live Performances
From aerial acts to jugglers and bubblers, the entertainment lineup promises to keep you on the edge of your seat and your camera ready!
#2. Meet and Greet with Brewers
Chat with your favourite brewers and explore their craft in an interactive, laid-back environment where you can get the inside scoop on brewing.
The #1 reason to attend next year’s Saint John Beer Fest… Support a Great Cause!
All proceeds go towards Bobby’s Hospice, providing essential end-of-life care in our community.
We look forward to seeing you all again next year at the Saint John Beer Fest for you don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to sip, play, and socialize with fellow beer enthusiasts.
by Ryan Myson