The Big Cheese Festival is back in Armstrong on April 11-12. This small town, with a population of just over 6,000, proudly claims its title as one of Canada’s top cheese spots. Now in its twelfth year, the festival is a treat for cheese lovers, professionals, and foodies alike.

Hosted by the Armstrong Spallumcheen Chamber of Commerce, the event features exciting contests like the amateur cheese ball challenge and professional grilled cheese competition. The highlight? Crowning the “big cheese” winner.
In preparation for the festival, local judges, including myself, sampled various unique grilled cheese creations from seven local businesses. It was quite a delicious task! Patti Noonan, the Chamber’s executive director, offered some great insights for judging. “I look for thick cheese and a good cheese pull,” she mentioned. Plus, using 100% Canadian dairy is a must.
Here are the seven tasty entries we tried:
- Farmstrong Cider Co. – Sunshine at the Farm
- Village Cheese Dairy – Village Choice Rueben
- Wild Oak Cafe – The Birds 2.0
- PV BLVD Coffee – Charcuterie Grilled Cheese
- Branding Iron Pub – Lobster Attack
- The Clove – Grilled Cheese Eh!
- Tiffany’s Asian Treats – The Pure Bread Canadian
Each grilled cheese was evaluated based on appearance, cheese content, creative ingredients, and overall flavor. Although the judges’ scores remain a mystery until the festival, it’s clear all participants brought something special to the table.
Visitors can also join the fun by trying these creations until April 12 and voting for their favorites. The Local Food Festival takes place at the Hassen Arena from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring tastings, seminars, and over 60 vendors—all for just $5.
Interestingly, the festival began as a one-time celebration for Armstrong’s 100th birthday, celebrating the town’s connection to the original Armstrong Cheese. It has since grown into a beloved annual event.
According to recent statistics from the Dairy Farmers of Canada, Canadians consume about 14.4 kg of cheese per person annually. That’s quite a lot! This festival not only showcases local talent but also highlights our love for cheese and our commitment to using local ingredients.
So, gear up for cheesy goodness and community spirit this April in Armstrong! For more details, check out the Armstrong Chamber website.
Check out this related article: Vernon Woman’s Hilarious Google Street View Pose Goes Viral – Discover the Fun Behind the Moment!
Source linkNational Grilled Cheese Day|Armstrong