Red Hart Brewing has been pouring pints in Red Deer since 2019 and will be celebrating its 2nd business anniversary, March 17th appropriately falling on St. Patrick’s Day. Located in the McKenzie Industrial Business Park, just East of Gasoline Alley, you will find their cozy neighbourhood taproom with quaint pub details and a menu that is anything but flat. With a focus on quality and community, this Tourism Red Deer member is on a mission to make good beer and do good things in house and out.
What makes you different, unique or stand out?
“Red Hart Brewing is unique in its design,” says Kristy Lawrence, Co-Owner of Red Hart Brewing. “We developed a business plan that focuses on small quality batches, to be served almost completely out of our taproom.”
Red Hart’s Brewer, Curtis, loves creating new brews and enjoys the freedom to experiment with different recipes (particularly English-style beers) and not be bogged down by production demands. With something new regularly on tap, you’re bound to become a regular, whether or not curiosity gets the best of you.
“We modelled our taproom after the concept of a warm neighbourhood pub on the quaint streets of small-town England,” Lawrence reflects. “With hand-carved wood details throughout the pub, you will notice the passion put into each detail.”
Their community atmosphere comes to life when hosting live music, pub quiz nights, and developing their exclusive Mug Club membership. “We currently have 106 members who come in weekly to fill their personalized mug with a fresh pint of brew,” says Lawrence. “Members who started as strangers have quickly become like family.”
Current restrictions have limited some popular activities offered inside the taproom, Lawrence mentions and they are thankful for their passionate staff and patrons who have supported them during these tough times. “We can’t wait to bring back our pool table and board games,” she says, “We love watching people play, interact and have a good time.”
Why do you do what you do?
“People, it is all about relationships and connections,” says Lawrence. “To be a place where people can gather, feel welcome, and unwind is our hope. Now more than ever, people are realizing just how vital that face-to-face relationship is.”
When you visit Red Hart Brewing, you will notice that they do not have any televisions in their taproom. “Which is totally intentional,” Lawrence says. “We love having families visit the taproom where they can relax in good company, juice boxes or soda are available for the kids and we are even dog friendly!”
Their motto is “Drink good beer. Do good things.” and they strive to do just that. Whether it is donating to local organizations, fundraising for charities, or supporting kids in Kenya, they knew they needed to use their platform to create positive change both locally and globally.
“We organized a charity event back in 2019 called Brewsic,” says Lawrence, “All of the musical performers were from the brewing industry, and proceeds went to help purchase feminine supplies for young girls in Kenya. Our partners Jarod and Rachel travelled there in the fall of 2019 and focused their time on education and training with the school-aged girls.”
Red Hart Brewing has made good on its motto and continues to find ways to give back. Participation in The Mustard Seed’s – “Coldest Night of The Year” - 5 km walk raised $1,600 toward local initiatives. With plans of adopting a highway this spring, Red Hart’s team will maintain the litter regularly for the health of the environment and preserve regional beauty.
What can guests (local or visiting) expect to experience?
“A warm and welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, a beautiful outdoor patio in the warmer months and a spot by the fireplace when it’s cold,” says Lawrence. “We often have food trucks parked outside, and we have recently started serving wings on Tuesdays, which have been very popular.”
What is new or upcoming?
“We are excited to celebrate 2 years in business this March!” exclaims Lawrence, “we are selling an exclusive birthday beer ‘What’s up Peaches’, a peach wheat beer that is super juicy - a fan favourite! We also have a 3-season patio arriving in the next few weeks, which will help increase the seating we have available, for more to enjoy.”
The team at Red Hart Brewing looks forward to the day when restrictions lift, and they can once again bring back pub quiz night, live music and lots of games. Until then… be sure to hop on over for a visit and get your fill of their delicious brews, often.
A “harty” congratulations on your anniversary and cheers to many more!
~ Your Friends at Tourism Red Deer
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