A distinctive experience in Guelph is gaining popularity by blending lawn bowling, beer, music, and balmy summer evenings. Brothers Brewing, situated in downtown Guelph on Wyndham Street, faced challenges due to a significant construction project that commenced in the spring, preventing them from opening their summer patio and resulting in reduced foot traffic.
To counter the decline in sales, Brothers Brewing collaborated with the Guelph Lawn Bowling Club to establish a beer garden earlier this summer. Colton Proveau, co-owner of Brothers Brewing, emphasized the necessity of this partnership, mentioning a 50% decrease in brewery sales. Proveau expressed gratitude for the beer garden concept at the bowling club, stating that it provided a much-needed boost during challenging times.
Blake Skinner, the president of the lawn bowling club, highlighted the added fun element brought by the beer garden, attracting individuals unfamiliar with the sport. Proveau expressed optimism about the future of this collaboration, intending to continue the initiative annually as long as it is well-received.
Local residents, Mathew and Jenna Holdom, regular patrons of Brothers Brewing, shared their positive experience at the new beer garden, leading them to explore lawn bowling. Similarly, Emily Gibson, a long-time member of the Guelph club, praised the beer garden’s positive impact, attracting a diverse range of participants and enhancing the sport’s longevity.
Gibson noted the influx of new participants, including younger demographics, contributing to the sport’s sustainability. The beer garden has not only revitalized the club but also introduced a new generation to the age-old sport of lawn bowling.
