(This story is sponsored by Gibbons Whistler, parent company of the Whistler Village Beer Festival.)

Whistler Olympic Plaza—the landmark, the legacy, the legend! From the blood, sweat, and tears of the world’s best athletes, to the barley, hops, and beers of the country’s top breweries, the renowned location at the foot of Whistler Mountain has played host to celebrations of some of Canada’s greatest triumphs.

And the Whistler Village Beer Festival (WVBF) is no exception. Returning for its sixth year (from September 11 to 16), the party will take place on the lush green pastures in the heart of the village and set against the epic mountain backdrop. With 70 breweries and 140 different varieties of beer and cider, this year’s event promises to be the biggest yet.

“The festival has gained traction and there have been a lot of local businesses that want to work with us and be a part of it,” says Katrina Frew, director of festvals and events.“We’re very exited to celebrate craft beer and showcase the different places, opportunities, and events that Whistler and the festival has to offer.”

And for the first year ever, organizers have added a sixth day to the schedule, meaning that attendees will have an additional 24 hours to enjoy the festivities.

“We’re doing everything from axe throwing to beer yoga to tap takeovers, and special dinners. It’s typically partner venues around town that offer up their space and come to the table with some programming to help us celebrate.”

One such event, entitled Craft Cultures, is new this year and invites visitors to the stunning Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (4584 Blackcomb Way) for a swanky evening complete with mouth-watering bites and brews, as well as live music and entertainment. Taking place from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. on Wednesday, September 12, the event will flow through the venue in stages, celebrating the themes of sky, land, and sea. Tickets are $50 and include passed plates, a few varieties of beer and cider, and complimentary entry to the official after-party at Buffalo Bill’s in Whistler Village.

But for those looking to attend the Main Event (on September 15 and 16), they can expect an amazing party atmosphere, delicious food, and, of course, great beers and ciders. Revellers this year will also be treated to musical performances from some festival newcomers such as DJ Stache, DJ Angry Bear, and Redeye Empire.

Frew also looks forward to seeing The Hip Replacements—a Tragically Hip tribute band that will be playing lots of “sweet Canadian classics” and created a storm at Gibbons’ other festival in the Okanagan earlier in 2018.

“We’re bringing back local favourites like Red Chair, JennaMae & The Groove Section, and The Whiskey Dicks, as well.”

Frew also encourages attendees to vote for their favourite brewery in the People’s Choice Awards at the Preston Mobility tent. The winning brewery will receive a beer contract with a local venue in town so the stakes are high. But with an additional 10 breweries taking part since last year, the decision could be that little bit more challenging for festival-goers.

Tickets are available now and Saturday general admission passes include bonus admission on Sunday, giving beer lovers some extra time to pick their favourites.

For those who want to take advantage of the whole weekend, whistler.com provides some of the best deals on accommodation, plus tons of perks for multiple night stays. 

“We always get a bunch of people coming up from the city and we’ve actually just announced that we’ve partnered with Whistler Connection,” says Frew. “They’re offering special rates from Vancouver and Squamish for people to come and check out the festival on the Main Event days.”

She also suggests checking out other ride share options on Poparide.

Frew is excited for another year of one of the most-anticipated events in the festival calendar.

“It keeps growing,” she adds. “And that’s what we’re trying to do. To make it a celebration that goes on throughout Whistler.”

For more information and the full schedule of events visit the WVBF website. Or better still, enter below to win four general admission passes (valued at $216)—each of which includes the official WVBF sampling mug, 10 beer tokens, bonus Sunday admission, plus access to live music, food trucks, and beer. And to make sure you get to and from the festival safe and sound, the winner will also receive round-trip transportation for four courtesy of Whistler Connection (valued at $180).  Stay up to date by following WVBF on Facebook.