The Because Beer Craft Beer Fest, that’s why

Hamilton Pier 4 event has been celebrating local suds and fabulous music since 2014. 

Summer is not summer without backyard parties and a lively patio scene, but once mid-July rolls around, it’s often time to explore new frontiers of the social landscape. Ready to combine the alfresco aspect of patio life and the party atmosphere of a backyard shindig with your pals somewhere new? This July, grab your crew and head down to the waterfront’s picturesque Pier 4 Park to indulge in the Because Beer Craft Beer Fest.

Presented by Sonic Unyon – Hamilton’s indie record label – Because Beer is a two-day celebration (July 14 and 15) of the local brews that are rich in character, flavour, and creativity. Now in its 10th year, the festival marks the opportunity for dedicated brewers to descend on the city to showcase their bevvies to new thirsty audiences. 

“It has a fantastic vibe – a chance to get together with friends in a big, gorgeous backyard that can pass for cottage country and spend a weekend enjoying great craft beer and cider, delicious food and entertaining bands,” says organizer David Young.

Whether you favour an IPA, a cider, or something hoppy, festival goers are given plenty of chances – 4oz at a time – to learn about the brewing processes, meet the brewers behind the beverages, and sample their way around the event, searching out their favs, all in the name of research.

You had us at beer, but thanks to the organizers’ musical ties, the live entertainment over the two-day fest is always a draw on its own. Past musical performers have included Shakey Graves and Dear Rouge, and Young promises a 2023 lineup of “heavyweight hit machines,” including Born In the Eighties, Terra Lightfoot and Dwayne Gretzky. 

“Fans of the festival will often buy weekend tickets because we really aim to produce two days of top-notch entertainment that makes the whole experience that much sweeter.” The event promises to be so sweet in fact, that we encourage you to head to the water’s edge, come for the beer, stay for the music, and enjoy the party. The patios will wait.