Vancouver’s most spirited week is nearly upon us. From March 1–8, Vancouver Cocktail Week returns for its milestone fifth year, bringing together world-class bartenders, rare spirits, and some of the city’s most exciting culinary destinations. Presented by The Alchemist magazine, this year’s festival cements Vancouver Cocktail Week’s place on the international cocktail calendar.
Across eight days, expect immersive dinners, competitive showdowns, elegant parties, and approachable happy-hour moments designed for both cocktail insiders and curious enthusiasts. Whether you’re booking a marquee event or simply dropping in for a post-work aperitivo, this is the week Vancouver raises its glass.
The Top 5 Must-Attend Events at Vancouver Cocktail Week 2026
Opening Cocktail-Paired Brunch March 1 | Boulevard Kitchen & Oyster Bar The festival kicks off in decadent fashion with its signature brunch, hosted this year at the award-winning Boulevard Kitchen & Oyster Bar. Executive Chef Roger Ma and Bar Manager Adam Domet collaborate on a five-course, cocktail-paired menu that sets the tone for the week ahead—refined, indulgent, and expertly balanced.
The Great Yaletown Shakeup March 3 | Brix & Mortar Bragging rights are on the line as six of Yaletown’s top bars face off in a high-energy bartender battle at Brix & Mortar. Judged by both industry pros and the audience, this spirited showdown blends competitive flair with serious cocktail craftsmanship.
Beyond the Bottle: Minami x TS Global Japanese Spirits Dinner March 3 | Minami An intimate, educational, and deeply flavor-driven experience, this dinner at Minami explores the nuance of Japanese distilling through rare pours and elegant pairings. Expect a thoughtfully curated evening that appeals to serious spirits collectors and curious newcomers alike.
Roaring ’20s Speakeasy Party March 5 | Harbour Cruises, Coal Harbour Step aboard a floating speakeasy for one of the festival’s most glamorous nights. Hosted by Harbour Cruises, this Jazz Age–inspired party features live electro-swing music, gourmet bites, and premium cocktails in a setting that feels straight out of a Fitzgerald novel. Vintage attire is highly encouraged.
Gala of Cocktails March 7 | Rosewood Hotel Georgia The grand finale unfolds in the Spanish Ballroom at Rosewood Hotel Georgia—an elegant, high-energy evening showcasing more than 35 creative cocktails, 25+ open bar stations, live music, and elevated bites. Equal parts black-tie glamour and playful indulgence, this is Vancouver Cocktail Week at its most iconic.
Beyond the Tickets
In addition to headline events, Vancouver Cocktail Week offers nightly Cinq à Sept happy hours at bars across the city—no ticket required—as well as guided Neighbourhood Cocktail Crawls through Gastown, Yaletown, Main Street, Commercial Drive, and, new for 2026, West 4th Avenue.
The festival also continues its meaningful partnership with Mind The Bar, donating a portion of ticket sales to support mental health and wellness resources for hospitality workers across Canada.
Tickets are on sale now, and many events sell out quickly. For the full schedule and details, visit thealchemistmagazine.ca/vcw. —Cassandra Anderton
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