Local Brewers Join Forces to Form ‘Calgary co-LAB’ at Intersection of Art, Tech, and Beer

Regional beverage producers are collaborating with TELUS on a project blurring the lines between art, science, and engineering.

Cold Garden, Burwood Distillery, and Tool Shed Brewing Company have joined forces to forge the Calgary co-LAB. The partnership was formed with the mission of creating unique and engaging experiences for consumers, bringing renewed creativity to the city’s cultural and entertainment landscape.

The Calgary co-LAB won a successful bid to secure a multi-year contract with the TELUS Spark Science Centre and the annual Beakerhead Festival, where they promise to deliver a fresh wave of energy and local flavour resulting in “an unparalleled experience for all attendees.”

“We are so excited to kick off our new partnership with co-LAB at Beakerhead,” stated Kyle Corner, who functions as vice president of experience for TELUS Spark. “TELUS Spark is thrilled to be partnering with three locally owned companies to showcase their innovation and award-winning craft beverages to our adult visitors.”

This year’s Beakerhead, scheduled for September 20-22, will take place at the Spark Centre, where visitors can expect a range of new offerings from co-LAB.

“This partnership presents a unique opportunity to showcase the very best of Calgary’s craft beverage scene,” said Dan Allard of Cold Garden. “We’re eager to bring our collective energy and creativity to TELUS Spark and Beakerhead.”

Over the course of the multi-year contract, Cold Garden, Burwood, and Tool Shed will work together to create and deliver a variety of activations. From craft beverage tastings to immersive experiences, Calgary co-LAB believes it is positioned to become a cornerstone of TELUS Spark’s and Beakerhead’s programming.

“We believe this collaboration will not only elevate the visitor experience at TELUS Spark and Beakerhead but also strengthen the ties within Calgary’s vibrant community,” said Jordan Ramey of Burwood Distillery. “Our goal is to create memorable experiences that resonate with both locals and visitors alike.”

TELUS Spark merged with Beakerhead in 2022, joining forces to engage and inspire more people and communities with science, engineering, art and technology.

Beakerhead offers a “science-fuelled spectacle” each September with events, experiences, installations and performances that showcase a smash-up of science, technology, and art.

The annual affair was initially established in 2013.