**Ontario Craft Breweries Experience Ups and Downs This Fall** Ontario's craft breweries are facing a mix of challenges and opportunities this fall. The latest closure is Northern Maverick, a large brewpub located on Bathurst Street in Toronto. This establishment, which occupied over 1,000 square feet and could seat around 400 patrons, has shut its doors after eight years in business due to non-payment of rent. Although its website claims the closure is temporary, the future remains uncertain for the popular venue that once offered a unique atmosphere with a ceiling adorned with barrels and brewed beers available at the LCBO. In contrast, the craft beer scene in Bayfield is set to see a revival. Bayfield Brewing, which closed its doors in September, will be replaced by a new brewery called Goose and Gander Brewhouse. The Marshall family, known for their successful Park House restaurant in Goderich, is renovating the former Bayfield Brewing space. General manager Tyler Marshall expressed enthusiasm about the new venture, stating, "We’re incredibly excited to begin this next chapter and continue contributing to Bayfield’s vibrant hospitality scene. Goose and Gander Brewhouse will bring together the best of local flavour, Canadian charm, and great company in a warm, inviting setting." The new brewery is expected to open in spring 2026. Meanwhile, Neustadt Springs Brewery is making headlines for its renovations. Located in a historic stone building in Midwestern Ontario, the brewery has recently undergone significant changes. Renovators used a crane to remove a section of the original roof, built in 1859, to create a new event space. This addition is anticipated to attract locals and visitors alike, as there are currently no other craft breweries in the area since MacLean’s Ales closed in nearby Hanover. As the craft beer landscape evolves, new initiatives are also emerging. Railway City Brewing and St. Thomas Animal Services are collaborating on a beer fundraiser set for 2026, aimed at supporting a new animal shelter. A contest is underway to name the new beer, with suggestions including "Barking Good Times" and "Waggin’ Tails Ale." Several breweries are also reintroducing past favorites. Powerhouse in London is bringing back Red Eye 2.0 Coffee Blonde, while London Brewing is re-releasing Earl of Adelaide Double IPA. Forked River is reviving Full City Coffee Porter, and Cowbell Brewing has launched Oatmeal Vanilla Black Lager. Additionally, Cowbell has added a new easy-drinking IPA to its lineup, named Donnybrook Easy IPA, which debuted this month and will be available at the LCBO in November. As the craft beer industry in Ontario continues to adapt, both closures and new openings reflect the dynamic nature of this sector. The coming months will be crucial for many breweries as they navigate these changes and seek to engage their communities.