From limited-edition anniversary pours to world-class guest shifts: six trending experiences of the 2026 festival.

Every Vancouver Cocktail Week has its standouts—the events that industry folks, media, and returning guests keep mentioning in the same breath. This year, the buzz is building around experiences that feel precise, intentional, and culturally distinct. If you’re scanning the schedule for the week’s most coveted tickets, start here.

1. Nikka × Miku Kaiseki Cocktail-Paired Dinner

A multi-course kaiseki-inspired menu is paired with cocktails featuring Nikka spirits. This is the kind of dinner that defines how serious cocktail pairing has become in Vancouver. For rare whisky enthusiasts, the evening concludes with an exclusive tasting of the Nikka From the Barrel ‘Extra Marriage’ 40th Anniversary bottling—a legitimate “unicorn” pour.

2. Koki Yokoyama Guest Shifts

When Koki Yokoyama steps behind the bar, it’s about technique and philosophy. Known for precision and quiet control, his appearances at Meo and The Chickadee Room bring a global perspective into intimate Vancouver settings. For those who follow international bar culture, these are moments worth experiencing.

3. La Dolce Vita at Bacaro

Aperitivo energy takes centre stage here. Expect spritzes, amari, vermouth-forward cocktails, and Venetian-style cicchetti in a lively, social format. It’s immersive without being formal—a transportive afternoon that feels more like the edge of a Venetian canal than a downtown bar.

4. Minami × Japanese Spirits Dinner

This dinner widens the lens beyond whisky to explore the depth of Japanese spirits. Pairings are thoughtful, educational, and layered with context. It’s a strong choice for guests who appreciate understanding the “why” behind what’s in the glass—exploring everything from premium gin to traditional shochu. 

5. Cocktail-Paired Brunch

In a city where brunch culture runs deep, this multi-course cocktail brunch remains a defining Vancouver Cocktail Week ritual. Expect polished dishes and brunch-forward cocktails that lean bright and impeccably balanced.

6. Commercial Drive and West 4th Avenue Cocktail Crawls

Guided stops at multiple bars showcase the personality of Commercial Drive and West 4th Avenue while keeping the energy high and social. It’s a reminder that cocktail culture isn’t just about rare spirits—it’s about movement, community, and discovering a room at its best.

Vancouver Cocktail Week runs March 1-8, 2026. For more information, visit thealchemistmagazine.ca/vcw.