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

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I found a great video someone made at the Battle of Black earlier this summer. Enjoy! (… and thanks for posting this kant88t!)

The Battle of Black Creek is an awesome thing to do for Fathers Day, so if you didn’t go this June, mark it in your calendar for next year!

This is the end of the summer, and I find it helps get the school year off to a great start if we make a good weekend of it: the last hurrah of summer.  There’s lots for families to do around town, but I’d say that Labour Day Weekend is perfect for visiting Black Creek Pioneer Village.

The Mill at Black Creek Pioneer Village is the only working mill in the Greater Toronto area

Wander around the Village. See the authentic period homes and workshops. Take the tour of the Brewery (yes, kids can, too), or have a great lunch in the restaurant. It makes for a lovely afternoon out.

Who knew beer was such a big part of Ontario’s history? Well it is … er … was. Waves of settlers, first English, the Irish, then German, each brought their brewing traditions here. At Black Creek Pioneer Village you can see the historic brewery for yourself and learn how beer was made. I recommend taking one of the tours.

Canada's only working historic brewery

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I love the natural curiosity of children.

Two young visitors watching the animals in the Village.

In March I went to cabane a sucre in Quebec, which is the traditional maple syrup festival there. It was a great experience (and, yes, I do intend to bring the kids next time!). There were rides in a wagon drawn by two great big Belgiums called Prince and Aline – although you’d have to pronounce their names with a rural Quebec accent to get the full effect. When I looked at the big wagon, I felt sorry for the horses having to pull it, but when I was in the wagon I realized it weighed nothing for these gentle giants. “Doucement, Prince, Aline” I heard the driver talking to the horses and I marvelled at the connection between the man and the animals.

The wagon is a big draw for visitors to Black Creek Pioneer Village (sorry - couldn't resist the pun)

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Today there is a special picnic for members on the Village’s North Property. The area is only rarely open to the public so this is a special treat. The North Property is where Black Creek Pioneer Village began in 1957 as the “Dalziel Pioneer Park Museum.” Last year the famous Dalziel Barn celebrated its 200th anniversary.

200th anniversary celebrations for the Dalziel Barn.

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A favourite destination for many people (not just the kids) is the blacksmith’s shop. It’s amazing to see the elementary power of fire in shaping iron – not to mention the blacksmith’s skill. I loved watching it when I was young, and I still do now.

The blacksmith at work in Black Creek Pioneer Village

Happy birthday to our American cousins on this lovely sunny Sunday, July 4. Today Black Creek Pioneer Village is holding an 1860s baseball game. It’s great fun to watch, but, even better, you and the kids can join in the game. The rules weren’t exactly the same then: there were four bases plus home, rather than the three bases we have today. Read more…

It’s a wonderful day today. The weather is lovely. It’s a great occasion to visit the Village. And raise a historically accurate (and refreshing) toast to Canada!

Rick, Jung-Hee, and Chris (yes, they are real people) raising a toast in the fabulous Black Creek Historic Brewery. Can you guess what is in the oak casks behind them?