Hops, Scotch and Every Other Tipple You Crave this Autumn: Hopscotch Festival Returns November 20
Libations lovers, rejoice: Hopscotch Festival sweeps over the city on Monday, November 20, bringing with it seven days and nights of enticing tipples and prime pours. Whether a sampling free-for-all at the Grand Tasting Hall or an intimate whiskey masterclass, the event shines a spotlight on spirits from around the world for scotch, craft beer, cider, wine, cocktail and spirits aficionados and newbies alike.
This year, Hopscotch fans can look forward to an expanded roster of special events and masterclasses at various locations across the city. Don’t miss the Grand Tasting Hall (November 24 – 25) at the PNE Forum, which showcases all manner of booze from B.C. and beyond as well as a selection of palate-pleasing treats. Sample your way through the room, then take a well-deserved rest in the music lounge before purchasing your favourite sips from the on-site liquor store.
The new Wine Garden is a must-see for vino lovers with flavourful and generous pours from international and domestic wineries. Beer fans will gravitate to the BC Craft Beer Pavilion, which features nearly 100 craft beers from 25 B.C. breweries. Imbibers who prefer whiskey will find more than 120 whiskeys at Whisky Corner, from single malt to rye, Irish, bourbons and blends. Cocktail enthusiasts will delight at the Craft Cocktail event where a life-sized art piece built to create the world’s best Negroni is guaranteed to steal the show.
Libations lovers rejoice: Hopscotch is here!
Those who prefer a savoury bite alongside their spirits can grab a street food-inspired dog at Juno Kim’s Hot Dog Throw Down; or tantalize their taste buds at Restaurant Row, featuring tasty bites crafted by chefs from restaurants across the city, including Steel Toad, Dixie’s BBQ, La Pentola and more.
To keep track of all the fun – and to combat the inevitable memory hazes caused by deliciously decadent drinking – download the new Hopscotch app, which allows users to access festival information, navigate the Grand Tasting Hall and remember their favourites as they sip their way through Hopscotch.
Tickets to Hopscotch start at $30 and are available at www.hopscotchfestival.com. Cheers!