Why? Because, beer. Hamilton's brew-focused Because Beer Craft Beer Festival highlights craft selections of its titular beverage, but it's equally notable for the stacked lineup of artists that it will bring to Pier 4 Park over three days from July 12 to 14.
So whether you prefer craft beer, local cider or great tunes, Because Beer is sure to be a highlight of summer 2024.
Tickets are on sale now. Below, check out Exclaim!'s picks for the festival's five must-see acts.
Billy Talent
One of the longest-running and best-loved Canadian pop-punk bands ever — and that's saying something — Billy Talent have weathered the trends and, more than 20 years later, remain as popular and powerful as they've ever been.
Dizzy
Wrapping up heartbreaking lyrics in catchy pop melodies, Katie Munshaw and her Dizzy bandmates offered their most refined statement yet on last year's self-titled album. Look for them to bring that same sonic polish to the stage.
PUP
From their early days in sweaty punk clubs to their ascent to large festival stages, PUP haven't toned down their scream-along intensity. Because Beer attendees who are commuting from Toronto can make the drive home with "DVP" stuck in their heads.
NOBRO
Speaking of holler-along punk intensity — Montreal wrecking crew NOBRO vowed to Set Your Pussy Free on on their 2023 album, and they will continue that righteous mission by bringing their noisy tunes to festivals in 2023.
Status/Non-Status
From his previous incarnation as WHOOP-Szo to his side-project with Zoon under the name OMBIIGIZI, songwriter Adam Sturgeon always puts on an incredible live show, delivering rock anthems with a thoughtful, socially conscious edge.