There are any number of approaches to how we introduce beer (or not) into our family life, but one thing is undeniable: beer is a big part of our culture, and it has been for a long time. The Brews Fest, which takes place at Black Creek Pioneer Village this weekend is a great way to learn more in a safe, family-friendly environment. I would encourage anyone to attend, with kids in tow, because it allows us to get past “Big Beer” and its advertising, and discover the real story of this delicious food.

Here's a shot of the brewers setting up for the 2008 Brews Fest at Black Creek Pioneer Village

The first Brews Fest took place at Black Creek in 2007. Six or seven craft breweries where there, as well as beer experts and beer historians. The idea was to create a counterpoint to the other beer events, which are often a little more about drinking and a little less about discovering and learning. Everyone who attended thought it was great, and I can’t count how many people said that they loved that it was in Black Creek Pioneer Village.

Since then one big thing has happened: the opening of the Black Creek Historic Brewery in the Village, one of the only places in the world where beer is brewed exactly the way it was done in pioneer times. It’s a fantastic way to learn about the brewers art. It’s easy to understand the process, because you can see everything right before your eyes. The tours of the Brewery have become a major attraction at Black Creek and people who take the tour are almost always fascinated to learn of the colourful history of beer in Ontario. Kids love the tour, and the tour guides tell me they usually lend a lot of life to the experience, asking great questions, and playing along with the more theatrical parts of the presentations.

Tutored tastings are a great way to learn about beer varieties, and food-pairings.

The Brews Fest expands on this experience with an opportunity to meet craft brewers in person, attend tutored tastings (ok that part is not actually for the kids!), meet Ian Coutts, author of Brew North: How Canadians Made Beer and Beer Made Canada, enjoy great food and great live music. The whole Village is open, so there is lots to do to fill a day, or an afternoon.

For many cultures around the world, including ours beer was food. Today many people are realizing that the beer is as complex and interesting a drink as wine. Interest in craft beer is growing along with the growing awareness of the importance of locally-sourced food. If you are curious at all, go check out the Brews Fest this weekend – and let me know what you thought of it!

Cheers!

Eric