Here’s something you don’t hear every day. This relates directly to edmonton craft beer festival developments across the country. The biggest craft beverage festival in Canada is throwing after-parties that’ll keep you dancing until the wee hours.
The 2026 Edmonton Craft Beer Festival is landing at the Edmonton Expo Centre on March 6 and 7, and honestly, the after-party lineup might be the real story here. We’re talking Friday night, Saturday night, and even Sunday afternoon parties with DJs and enough craft beverages to float a small boat.
What Makes This Year Different: Edmonton Craft Beer Festival Impact
Sure, you’ve got your typical festival fare. This relates directly to edmonton craft beer festival developments across the country. Over 400 beers, ciders, spirits and meads from more than 150 breweries and distilleries from around the world. Related: GTA Construction Webinar: Industry Leaders Discuss Future
But the kicker? They’re not shutting down when the sun goes down.
The festival runs from 5 p.m. To late on Friday, then noon to 4:30 p.m. And 5:30 p.m. To late on Saturday. Those “late” times aren’t kidding around. And when they say late, they mean it. Related: Toronto Hit by Freezing Drizzle as Winter Storm Causes 160 Crashes
- Date: March 6-7, 2026
- Location: Edmonton Expo Centre, 7515 118th Ave. NW
- Tickets: Starting at $89.99 for admission packages
- Includes: Festival entry, $40 sample tokens, after-party access, commemorative mug
The Brewing Lineup
Local favourites like Banded Peak Brewing and Wild North Brewing Co. Are setting up shop alongside Old Prospector Distilling. Thing is, these aren’t just Alberta breweries. The festival is pulling makers from all over the globe. Why stick to local when you can go international?
If you’re more of a foodie, spots like The Druid Irish Pub, Flipside BBQ, and SpiceBros will be dishing out grub to soak up all that sampling. Smart move, honestly. Related: Edmonton MP Matt Jeneroux Crosses Floor to Join Liberals
Beyond the Beverages
Look, drinking 400 different beverages isn’t for everyone.
The organizers get that. There’s live music, DJs spinning throughout the event, and educational seminars for folks who want to learn while they sip. They’ve even got a sports lounge with a giant screen for catching whatever big game is happening that weekend.
With over 400 beers, ciders, spirits and meads from more than 150 breweries and distilleries to discover, you’re bound to find plenty of new favourite beverages.
The After-Party Scene
Here’s where things get interesting. Most festivals wrap up and send everyone home. Not this one. Friday and Saturday nights, plus Sunday afternoon, they’re keeping the party rolling with what they’re calling “exceptional DJs” and “exciting dancing.” Fair enough, that’s pretty vague marketing speak, but the point is clear. They want people sticking around.
Whether you’re a craft beverage expert or just looking for a fun night out, the after-parties are included in your ticket price. Can’t argue with that value proposition.
Getting Your Tickets
Advance tickets went on sale today, starting at $89.99 for admission packages. That gets you festival entry, $40 worth of sample tokens, access to all the after-parties, and a commemorative sample mug to take home. Pretty solid deal.
The festival’s website has the full list of participating breweries, distilleries, cideries, restaurants, and events if you want to plan your weekend strategy. And trust me, you’ll want to plan.
So what does that mean for Edmonton’s social calendar?
March just got a lot more interesting. Just remember to pace yourself. With after-parties running three nights in a row, this isn’t your typical weekend festival.
