The BC Beer Awards celebrated the finest in British Columbia’s craft brewing community this past weekend, honouring standout beers, breweries and individuals who continue to elevate the province’s reputation as a hub for world-class craft beer. With nearly 900 entries across 35 categories, this year’s competition showcased the creativity, quality and innovation that define B.C.’s brewing industry.
Smithers Brewing earned top honours, taking home Best in Show for its Smithersbräu Festbier, while Camp Beer Co. was named Brewery of the Year after an impressive showing that included one Gold and four Silver medals. Checkerhead Brewing received the Rookie of the Year award, recognizing exceptional achievement by a new brewery. Paul Hadfield of Spinnakers was presented with the Legend Award for his pioneering contributions to Canada’s craft beer culture.
Among the most competitive categories were Hazy IPA with over 80 entries and International Lager with 40 entries, while newer categories like Non-Alcoholic Beer reflected the growing diversity and innovation within the craft sector. The complete list of winners, from Pale Ale and Porter to Fruit Beer and Specialty styles, is available online at bcbeerawards.ca/results/2025-winners.
Photo: BC Beer Awards
