(This article is sponsored by Tourism Whistler.)

B.C. has a well-earned reputation as the birthplace of craft beer in Canada. The country’s first contemporary craft brewery was created in Horseshoe Bay in 1982. Now, there are more than 200 of them across the province—up from just 54 in 2010.

From September 13 to 18, lovers of B.C. craft will have a chance to sample the best of these brews at the Whistler Village Beer Festival, returning after a two-year hiatus.

This festival will deliver six whole days of beer-fueled fun in the heart of Whistler with the Main Event taking place at Whistler Olympic Plaza on September 17 and 18.

Could there be anything more glorious than a cool beer in the mountains at this time of year? There’s no denying that it just feels right—especially in a giant amphitheatre with live music and a ton of activities.

Make sure you arrive early to experience all the beer-themed activities and events. Throw axes while throwing back some of B.C.’s finest ales at Forged Axe Throwing’s ‘Axes and Ales’ event on September 13.

Do the downward dog at Lululemon Whistler’s ‘Sip and Stretch’ yoga event on September 15.

Also on September 15, there’s the ‘80s Tap Takeover’ at the Beacon Pub and Eatery, featuring Coast Mountain, Backcountry, and House of Funk Brewing.

On September 16, it’s time for beer lovers to be the judge of B.C.’s best pale ale. The ‘Master Crafters: Holy Grail of Pale Ale’ competition will be presented by Grimm’s Fine Foods at the Longhorn Saloon.

The Whistler Village Beer Festival culminates at the Main Event, featuring 120+ beers and ciders to sample from across B.C.

Among the 2019 winners were Coast Mountain Brewing (1^st place in Best in Fest), Backcountry Brewing (2^nd place in Best in Fest), Fuggles & Warlock (3^rd place in Best in Fest), and Wildeye Brewing (People’s Choice).

As always, breweries in attendance compete to win draught-line contracts with local establishments. Contestants include 3 Dogs, Deep Cove, Electric Bicycle, Hoyne and Pemberton Brewing, to name a few.

That’s in addition to five local food vendors at the event. Grimm’s Fine Foods, French’eese, Splitz Grill, Teriyaki Boys, and Whistler Wood Fired Pizza Co. are all going to be on-site offering tasty goodies to pair with whatever beer festivalgoers prefer.

The Whistler Village Beer Festival is definitely for the love of beer and food. But it’s also for the love of music.

On Saturday (September 17), the Strumbellas, a six-piece Ontario band, will bring their unique blend of alternative country, indie rock, and gothic folk to the stage.

Three popular Whistler acts also feature on Saturday, including the resort’s iconic musical duo, the Hairfarmers. Red Chair will perform songs from the rockers’ Make Me debut release. Funky DJ Stache will entertain the crowd on Saturday as well as Sunday.

Headlining on Sunday (September 18) is Fernie-based Shred Kelly, serving up banjo-driven folk-rock. Sunday also features Winnipeg’s Boy Golden, a.k.a. Liam Duncan. Underneath Boy Golden’s lighthearted sensibility is a pitch to stay positive and mentally healthy—something we all need right now.

Whistler-based JennaMae and Groove Section will round out the day with originals and covers of pop, R&B, and rock.

Yes, there’s nothing quite like enjoying a craft beer or cider while gazing out at Canada’s alpine paradise and savouring homegrown music.

The Main Event will be followed by the festival’s official after-parties. On September 17, it’s at the Longhorn Saloon with resident DJs. The following night, it’s at the FireRock Lounge.

With all that on tap, these breweries are sure to bring their absolute best to showcase in Whistler. At this festival, it will be top of the line beverages.

Don’t kid yourself. This isn’t about collecting medals that will sit on the shelf in some brewery. The Whistler Village Beer Festival is truly focused on nurturing the craft sector by forging genuine connections between creators and those who love beverages.

Come to Whistler from September 13 to 18 for the Whistler Village Beer Festival. It’s sure to make you and your pals happy, too. And there’s bound to be plenty of electricity in the air.