The Patch Brewery, located across from the beloved Laity Pumpkin Patch in Maple Ridge, has quickly become a community hub. It is a place where family heritage meets brewing passion. The brewery opened in August 2024. It sits on farmland tended by the Laity family for over 35 years. This land has been transformed from agricultural roots into a vibrant farm-to-table craft beer destination.
From Homebrewing to Barn Brewing
Co-founder Jeff’s brewing journey began humbly in his own kitchen. With the support of his wife, he spent years perfecting his homebrews. Then, he stepped into the professional scene in North Vancouver. What started as a hobby turned into a calling, leading him to spearhead an upstart brewery before returning to Maple Ridge to pursue something closer to home.
The Patch came together almost by chance. Jeff had been chatting with a fellow brewer and owner Michael, after spotting signs of a new brewery opening. A shared passion for beer led them to equipment auctions, roadside conversations, and eventually a partnership. Everything aligned at the right time—turning what seemed like coincidence into a dream realized.
A True Farm-to-Table Vision
What sets The Patch apart is its deep connection to the land. The brewery incorporates Laity-grown barley and BC-sourced hops, ensuring that each pint reflects the flavors of its surroundings. The team even collaborates on experimental hop breeding programs, with the hope of discovering the next “it” variety for BC craft beer.
Behind the bar, innovation flows as freely as the beer. The Patch uses a unique cold-room pumping system to transfer brews directly to the front house. This setup reduces waste, cuts down on labour, and guarantees a perfect pour—an approach that visiting brewers often call one-of-a-kind.
Community at the Heart
From the start, the reception from Maple Ridge has been overwhelming. On opening weekend, the taproom filled by mid-afternoon—a clear sign that the community was ready to embrace its first true farm brewery.
The Patch has become more than a place to grab a pint. It’s a gathering spot where live music fills the air on Tuesday evenings and Sunday afternoons. Pizzas come loaded with fresh, farm-sourced ingredients. Cyclists from the nearby Trans Canada Trail drop in for a well-earned drink. Even runners have their own brew: Run Ridge, a hazy pale ale enhanced with electrolytes, designed to refresh without compromise.
Struggles, Success, and Recognition
Bringing The Patch to life wasn’t without challenges. Navigating permits and infrastructure was a marathon—just connecting to the city sewer system took 26 months. But persistence paid off, and today the brewery thrives on land that blends tradition with innovation.
In its first year, The Growler magazine recognized The Patch as one of BC’s Best New Breweries for 2025. This accolade is a testament to the team’s creativity and community spirit.
A Destination in Maple Ridge
With over 130 staff across the farm and brewery operations, The Patch is more than a business—it’s a destination. Visitors come for the beer, stay for the food, and often linger for the music and atmosphere. For many, it’s the perfect ending to a bike ride, a weekend outing, or a visit to the pumpkin patch next door.
At its core, The Patch Brewery is about more than craft beer. It’s about family, resilience, and bringing people together—pouring not just pints, but a sense of place and belonging in Maple Ridge.
Mary in Vancity 
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