Vancouver Cocktail Week 2026: How To Make the Most of It

Vancouver Cocktail Week returns March 1–8, bringing together the city’s best bartenders for its fifth anniversary. Whether you’re a spirits enthusiast or just enjoy a good drink, the week offers everything from casual happy hours to formal multi-course dinners.

You don’t need a festival pass or expert knowledge to participate. Start with the Cinq à Sept series: unticketed happy hours held at bars across Vancouver every evening. Just show up at a participating spot, order a signature cocktail, and enjoy. It’s the easiest way to experience the festival without planning a full evening.

For some friendly competition, head to the Great Yaletown Shakeup on March 3 at Brix & Mortar. Bartenders from six local favourites, including Elisa and West Oak, compete for the neighbourhood’s top spot, and you’ll help decide the winner.

On March 4, Miku hosts a Kaiseki dinner. It’s a traditional multi-course Japanese experience with Nikka pairings, ending with a rare tasting of a 40th-anniversary bottling. A solid choice if you prefer a sit-down meal.

The Roaring 20s Speakeasy on March 5 takes place on a boat in Coal Harbour, featuring jazz music and cocktails made with vodka and gin. While many guests wear vintage outfits, the real highlight is sipping premium spirits while viewing the city from the water.

The Gala of Cocktails on March 7 is the week’s marquee event. Held in the Spanish Ballroom at the Rosewood Hotel Georgia, it features more than 25 open bar stations and dozens of drinks to try. It’s a busy, high-energy night that brings the entire week together in one room.

A portion of every ticket sold supports Mind The Bar, a local organization providing mental health and wellness resources for hospitality workers.

Find the full schedule and buy tickets at thealchemistmagazine.ca/vcw. Many local bars and liquor stores also carry printed program guides. Pick one up this week to plan your cocktail crawls.