Alexander Keith's Brewery – Nova Scoti, Canada, Beer
Written by Avril Betts CHA
Alexander Keith's Brewery – Nova Scotia Beerr
It would be hard to find a Nova Scotian who doesn't know the name Alexander Keith. Alexander Keith founded a Canadian Brewery in Halifax, Nova Scotia in 1820 making it one of the oldest commercial breweries in North America. He emigrated from Scotland in 1817, and in addition to being a prominent businessman, a philanthropist, and one time Mayor of Halifax he served in the Nova Scotia legislature for 30 years.
The name is best recognized because of the beer that has bee
"brewed without compromise since 1820." The Brewery has been in operation in Nova Scotia since 1820 when he created the recipe. Today, one in every 3 beers sold in the Province is a Keith's.
The brewery became part of the Oland Brewery family in 1928, and the popularity of the beer continued to climb. Today, the brewery is under the control of Labatt, a subsidiary of Anheuser-Busch InBev, formerly Interbrew.
The brewery produces Keith's India Pale Ale, Red Amber Ale, Light Ale, and Dark Ale. The first, most popular, and most widely distributed beer is its India Pale Ale, currently the number one premium domestic beer in Canada.
In 1996 the beer was launched outside of Nova Scotia. Although managing the rules and regulations that go along with promoting the product outside of Nova Scotia has not been as smooth as the taste of the beer, the brewery continues to grow and prosper.
Alexander Keith's career as a politician, and the brewery's and Nova Scotia's Scottish heritage are used to market the beer. In 2002, Peter Kelly the Mayor of the Halifax Regional Municipality included an invitation to visit Halifax in each case of beer.
In support of people getting to know and coming to visit Nova Scotia the brewery displays the Nova Scotia flag on the Keith’s brand. The Province tends to be a lot like Alexander Keith's Beer - Those who like it, like it a lot.
After two centuries of only being available in Canada, the beer is now being sold in the United States.
The Keith’s Brewery located in the Brewery market in the heart of downtow
Halifax has a perfect tour for all ages and for a true taste of Nova Scotia. The tour is interactive with Animators in period costume who lead you back in time as you learn about the history of the beer, the brewery and life in Halifax in 1863. Sip on a sample of beer at the Stag's Head Tave
while listening to toe tapping music, or playing games.
Tours run every half hour and are approx. 55 minutes in length. Well worth a visit if you are in Halifax.
Article author
About the Author
My name is Avril Betts, I am originally from England and now a Canadian Citizen, I have over 25 years experience in all aspects of Travel and Tourism, including running an online agency for over 13 years. I holds a CHA (Certified Hotel Administrator) an internationally recognized accreditation and in 1996 hosted the president’s wives luncheon for the G7 conference.
I have co-chaired Atlantic Canada Showcase an International Travel Trade Show, managed 450 volunteers for the Tall Ships Visit in July 2000, and was awarded Entrepreneur of the Year by the Tourism Industry Association of Nova Scotia. In 1988 I founded the Country I
Association in Nova Scotia still going strong today. I have been involved in numerous Travel and Tourism volunteer activities throughout Atlantic Canada and across Canada.
As an experienced speaker I have spoken and presented seminars to large and small audiences for many years on subjects ranging from Marketing and Sales and Life Skills to Tourism, Travel and Real Estate, and operating an online Travel business.
As a recognized tourism expert I am accustomed to working with tourists and passing on my knowledge of the various destinations to help them make the most of their vacations.
Don’t hesitate to contact me with any questions or travel inquiries.
Further reading
Further Reading
Article
Ayodhya to Nepal Tour Package: A Sacred Spiritual Journey Across Borders for Family
Book the best Ayodhya to Nepal tour package with All India Tour & Taxi. Comfortable cabs, expert drivers, and customized itineraries for a spiritual journey to Janakpur, Kathmandu & Pashupatinath. Book now!
September 16, 2026
Article
London Ground Travel Guide: Taxi Prices, Apps and Southampton Cruise Transfers
Travelling between London airports, hotels, railway stations and Southampton Cruise Port becomes easier when the entire journey is planned in advance. Understanding London taxi prices and using a Black Cab Fare Calculator can help.
September 16, 2026
Article
Understanding Holiday Memberships: Benefits, Flexibility and Booking
Planning a holiday every year can involve several decisions, including choosing destinations, finding suitable accommodation, checking availability and managing bookings. For families and frequent travellers, a holiday membership can offer an organised approach to managing these travel plans.
September 14, 2026
Article
How an Ayurvedic Retreat Can Help You Reset Your Daily Routine, Reduce Stress and Reconnect With Yourself
By stepping away from busy routines, travellers can focus on mindful eating, regular sleep, yoga, meditation, traditional Ayurvedic therapies, and personal well-being.
September 5, 2026