Heads up, Canada!

Artigiano Roasting Co. is poised to welcome baristas from all over British Columbia as it hosts the annual Western Regional Barista Championship, one of the Canadian coffee industry’s premier events.

On September 28 and 29, some of Canada’s top baristas will compete against each other in a fun, engaging coffee competition as they vie for the title of BC’s Best Barista. Coffee-loving members of the public may participate in coffee roasting sessions; sample brews from leading coffee houses and visit the supplier’s showcase. Featured guest speakers will talk about coffee, origin, green bean buying and decaffeination.

The competition is open to both novices and seasoned operators alike, and some fabulous prizes are available to be won. The winner of the regional competition will secure a spot in Canadian National Barista Competition taking place October 20-21 at the Vancouver Convention Centre.

The 2013 Western Regional Barista Championship is open to the public, and will be held September 28 to 29. The event and competition from 12-6 pm at Artigiano Roasting Co., 105-2999 Underhill Avenue, Burnaby, BC. This two-day event will wrap up with an after party at Caffè Artigiano’s 740 West Hastings café on Sunday, September 29th. The public can inquire at participating cafes for event tickets, at the door or email info@caffeartigiano.com to RSVP. For more information visit http://baristacanada.com.

The Western Regional Canadian Barista Championship title sponsor is Nuova Simonelli and additional sponsors include Monin, Pacific, Gerhards, WA2!, Atlas Café Imports, Tapio, Café Imports, and Eight Ounce Coffee.

¢ The Canadian Coffee & Tea Show, October 20-21

The Canadian Coffee & Tea Show returns to Vancouver, a city known for its robust café culture, to host exhibitors and attendees from around the globe. Catered to individuals who share your passion for coffee and tea, this event is not only educational, but a great opportunity to participate in skill testing competitions, and generate key industry contacts.

Attendees will be able to experience an engaging roster of educational seminars conducted by industry experts and geared to new entrepreneurs, independents and chain operators alike. Whether you are eager to learn about key issues, emerging market trends, or solid business solutions, our education curriculum is a must-attend brew of in-class seminars and hands-on workshops. Get the tools you need to remain competitive and grow your business.

On the trade show floor, meet leading local, national and global suppliers with the finest equipment, products and services available.

In addition, the country’s top barista talents will showcase their signature creations and prepare  four espresso and cappuccinos for a panel of judges in front of crowd of thousands at the Canadian Barista Championship.  Watch as they battle it out for a chance to represent Canada at the 2014 World Barista  Championship and take home the cash prize.