The Toronto Festival of Beer is raising a glass to its 17th year by introducing the Queer Beer Festival: events and brews specifically for the gay community.

On Thursday, Aug 4, more than 100 vendors will provide beer and good eats to the queer and trans communities, in thanks for their support of the Festival of Beer over the past 16 years.

“Beer comes in all colours, all shapes, all sizes and all tastes,” says Les Murray, president of the festival, “so this year we decided to create a new evening and fully embrace the beer-drinking queer community.”

A portion of the proceeds of all tickets purchased before July 8 ($5.19) was donated to the 519 Church Street Community Centre, the official charity of the Queer Beer Festival.

“The Queer Beer Festival brings together all facets of the queer community, in celebration of beer,” says Murray.

And what bigger and better way to throw a party than by inviting pop superstars Ace of Base to perform, along with local groups and DJs.

The Queer Beer Festival runs from 4 to 10pm on Aug 4.