The Vancouver Cocktail Week events that savvy insiders don’t ignore

Presenting the High-Value Edit: World-class VCW events for under $100

We’ve created the High-Value Edit: a shortlist of world-class Vancouver Cocktail Week events under $50 and under $100. Living Room Creative photo

Want to “do” Vancouver Cocktail Week properly? The secret isn’t a bigger budget—it’s a better map.

The full 2026 calendar is officially live, and while the galas and cocktail-paired dinners are spectacular, there is magic to be found in the masterclasses, parties and neighbourhood crawls that don’t break the bank. We’ve curated the High-Value Edit: a shortlist of world-class VCW events that prove you can stretch your festival dollar without lowering your standards.

Our $50 and under events of great experiences—often for less than the cost of a round of drinks. Nicole and Bagol photo

The Entry-Level Icons ($50 & Under)

Low barrier, high payoff. These are the festival secrets designed for curious palates and spontaneous spirits.

The Global Legends: Dive into a Johnnie Walker Seminar ($30) or a Single Malts Masterclass ($40) for serious pours and professional knowledge.
The Wildcards: Catch vintage circus energy at The Velvet Big Top ($30) or explore the centuries-old history of Fenjiu: The Art of Light Aroma Baijiu for just $13.
The Social Circuit: Mix retail therapy with spirits at the Gastown Sip & Shop ($30)—three boutiques, three drinks, zero regrets.

BROWSE THE $50 & UNDER COLLECTION ON EVENTBRITE

The under $100 events offer bigger experiences with excellent value. Nicole and Bagol photo

The Premium Value Picks ($55–$96)

Level up. These events are heavy hitters—think harbour and city views, hands-on spirit labs, and neighbourhood takeovers.

The Deep Dives: Head to Miku for Umeshu and Shochu ($65) with Michelin-recommended views, or get nerdy at the Pourhouse x Patrón Tasting Lab ($55).
The Big Nights Out: Channel the jazz age at the Roaring 20’s Speakeasy Boat Party ($70) or hit the Great Yaletown Shakeup ($75) for maximum neighborhood energy.
The Guided Crawls: Let the experts lead the way. Neighbourhood Cocktail Crawls ($72–$96) through Main Street, Commercial Drive, or West 4th offer signature drinks and snacks with zero planning required.

BROWSE THE $100 & UNDER COLLECTION ON EVENTBRITE

No ticket? No problem.

If you prefer to play it by ear, the Cinq à Sept series is your best friend. These are pop-in happy hours across the city where you can soak up the VCW atmosphere and enjoy featured cocktails—often at festival pricing—without a reservation.

Vancouver Cocktail Week takes place March 1-8, 2026.

Tickets are available at thealchemistmagazine.ca/vcw and on Eventbrite.