Tonight we were at the annual “Cheer by the Pier”, previously known as “Beer on the Pier”, but given the assortment of sprits available, and not just beer; the rebranding made sense.
This is presented by Darwin Properties Ltd, and 2025 is seeing it celebrating its 10th edition. The night was in support of vulnerable children and youth on the North Shore, raising over $1.3 million in support of Family Services of the North Shore’s Child and Youth Mental Health programs since 2015.
Considering I am currently in school for counselling, I found this a great event to be in support of. As per the press release, “Children’s experiences matter deeply. When parents and kids get expert help at the moment, they’re most vulnerable, it can shape their lives for decades to come. By supporting our Child and Youth counselling programs, you are directly helping us continue to offer accessible, no cost/low-cost services to children and their families, and letting them know the future is brighter when your community cares.”
This is the annual summer fundraiser featuring handcrafted cocktails, refreshing mocktails, local craft beer, and fine wine. Each guest was given 5 tokens with a souvenir tasting glass at the door. You exchange them for full drinks for 3 tokens or 1 token for a taster. And if you run out, you can purchase more for more.
There were share benches and standing tables, plus room outside on the sectioned off patio to enjoy either sips or food at.
Familiar brands like local award winning North Vancouver gin Copper Penny was offering 3 different cocktails to try or samples of their flavoured gin.
Victoria native Seacider brought a collection of their apple ciders in both alcoholic and nonalcoholic options. I was especially enthralled by their Rum Runner, a 12.5% cider aged in rum barrels for an additional boozy boost.
Non-alcoholic options like Edna’s and Not Too Sweet was complimentary, I liked the patter’s lychee lemonade. Moody Ales & Co. had a non-alcoholic beer flavoured in a lovely fragrant lavender.
Looking for alcoholic beers there was Yellow Dog, Strathcona Beer Co., and No Boats on Sunday.
Coolers include Lolo, White Claw, and Long Drink.
I especially liked the Finnish Long Drink as a citrusy sparkler. It was a new one for me and sure to be this summer’s go-to.
Wines available tonight included Australia’s new and sustainably made Rewild.
There was a smaller selection from Artisan Wine Shop that including Road 13 for tasting. And the merely teased with the presence of Oculus and Martin’s Lane, for display purposes only.
On top of ticket sales and 50/50 tickets, they was also a silent auction to help further raise funds. Prizes were contributed by local small businesses in North Vancouver wanting to give back to the community. Salon gift cards, private chef dinners, and gift baskets.
For food, each ticket holder was entitled to either a chicken shawarma or falafel bowl prepared by North West cooking academy. Each served with a side of pita and tzatziki or hummus.
There were also mini bags of chips at every table for anyone to help them selves to. A nice snack, considering all the casual drinking.
Overall, a lovely evening spent in support of a good cause. I can see why the community comes out for this one, and why it is in its 10th year.
Pipe Shop Venue Shipyards
115 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver, BC V7L OB2
(604) 985-2191
