One of the biggest events in small-town Hudson is our annual Saint Patrick’s Day Parade, organized by the Soulanges Irish Society. Fewer than 6,000 people live in Hudson, yet past parades have drawn more than 15,000 spectators to gather on Main Road to see the pipers, Irish dancers, and floats. 

In 2024, Irish Week in Hudson will take place March 12 – 17, with a series of fun events all week long followed by the annual Saint Patrick’s Day Parade from 1-5 p.m. on Saturday, March 16, 2024.

The Craic Irish Red Ale is a celebration of good times like these — and proceeds from the sale of this beer will benefit the Soulanges Irish Society to help keep the fun going! 

The Craic Irish Red Ale is a malty, deep red beer fermented on French oak staves to enhance aroma. It is assertive in taste, yet balanced by bright flavours of caramel and toffee, followed by a subtle toasty note. This beer is clear, with a foamy off-white head. 

Irish Red Ale is a pale ale brewed with kilned malts and roasted barley, which is what gives the beer its distinctive colour. This style dates back to the early 1700s, and was first brewed in the town of Kilkenny.

Pair it with traditional Irish fare such as a hearty beef stew or shepherd’s pie, roasted vegetables, mild cheddars, or with nutty and slightly sweet desserts like pecan cookies or caramel cheesecake.

Where to buy

The Craic is a special seasonal release available at select retailers in Quebec and at Microbrasserie Cardinal while supplies last.

What people are saying

“I have to speak for one special beer from this brewery since it was made particularly for Saint Patrick’s Day… “The Craic”! Don’t miss your chance at trying out this Red Ale, it is OUTSTANDING and one of the most balanced beers WITH character that I’ve ever tried in my 22 years of drinking. They hit the nail on the head with this one.”

Couchlock Studios – Google Maps

“An Irish Red Ale with depth. That’s what I discovered when I cracked The Craic. A blend of malty caramel sweetness, a mildly bitter oaky flavour and toast on the back end. Rare to find a Red with this kind of balance.”

Steve Larouche – Untappd

“Excellent Irish Ale!”

Dave Munro – Untappd

“Good beer with oak barrel taste“

Bastien Chentrier – Untappd

“Highly recommended.”

Bernie Caron – Untappd