Hundreds of pickle aficionados braved the winter chill on Saturday, January 17, 2026, for a unique celebration at Walkerville Brewery. The brewery's first-ever Pickle Party proved that a passion for pickles is a powerful draw, bringing an estimated 650 people through its doors for a day dedicated to all things dill.
A Sour Success Beyond Expectations
The event's popularity exceeded all forecasts. Natalie Dolman, the front house manager, expressed her astonishment at the community's response. "I did not anticipate this response — it's crazy," Dolman told the Windsor Star. She noted that feedback was overwhelmingly positive and many of the specially crafted offerings sold out completely.
The party's core appeal was a lineup of inventive, pickle-themed consumables. Guests sampled unique beers like a sweet pickle lager and a roasted garlic and dill stout. The menu extended beyond brews to include cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks featuring pickle brine, a distinctive pickle pizza, and the brewery's signature pretzel topped with dill seasoning.
Local Vendors Bring Creative Twists
The celebration was a collaborative effort that showcased Windsor's local food scene. Four vendors participated, each adding their own creative flair to the pickle theme:
- Black Magic Culinary Creations
- Little Foot Food
- The Cheese Bar
- Robbie's Gourmet Sausage Co.
"Everyone had some really cool spins on dill and pickles," Dolman remarked, highlighting the collaborative and community-focused nature of the event.
Community Calls for More Unique Gatherings
For attendees like self-proclaimed pickle lovers Karen Tilson and Dianne Kerr, the event was an instant hit. While they typically prefer the brewery's lighter lagers, they were quickly won over by the sweet pickle lager. Kerr captured the sentiment of many, telling the Star, "I think this is a fabulous idea and Windsor needs to do more of this stuff."
The strong turnout has the brewery considering making the Pickle Party an annual winter tradition. Dolman emphasized the dual benefit of such events, stating, "It supports local vendors and gets the community out. That's what we want." The success demonstrates a clear appetite in Windsor for innovative, themed gatherings that foster local business and bring people together over shared, if quirky, interests.
The event was documented by Windsor Star journalist Millar Holmes-Hill, whose photos captured patrons like Kelly Guilbault showcasing a pickle-inspired caesar, Alex Moorehouse pouring stouts, and friends like Tracy Buchanan and Stephanie Lepera enjoying pickle lemonade and bites.
