68 - Brennen Wowk (Bo’s Bar and Stage)

On the final stop of our road trip through central Alberta we drop in to Red Deer institution Bo’s Bar and Stage to talk with owner Brennen Wowk about changing Red Deer from a city bands drive through between Edmonton and Calgary to a tour stop they can’t miss.

“If you went to RDC, you know Bo’s”

Bo’s first opened in 1996 and has long been a staple in Red Deer, especially for the local college kids. When Brennen took over in 2010 he had big ambitions for the venue ranging from supporting the local community, being an early adopter of Alberta craft beer, and of course putting Red Deer on the map as a place for live music.

Brennen has been a part of the liquor industry for two decades, before Bo’s operating a number of liquor stores. One day in 2010 he got a hot tip from a beer rep that the iconic bar would be going up for sale. He originally didn’t think he’d want to take on another business, but popped by a for a Wednesday night wing night (one of the few around at the time), and 4 days later he owned a bar.

Bo’s in 2010 vs Bo’s in 2020 are very different places, and Brennen is massively proud of what he’s been able to accomplish.

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Let’s Meet For A Beer: website | facebook

Alberta Beer Festivals: website | twitter | instagram

Brennen Wowk - Bo’s Bar and Stage website | twitter | instagram | facebook

Bud Kelly - Troubled Monk: website | twitter | instagram | facebook