Healthy Soda: Naturally Refreshing, Herbal & Alive - Autumn 2026

Healthy Soda: Naturally Refreshing, Herbal & Alive

Free Class
TBA Autumn 2026
6:30pm–7:30pm MST

In-Person: Light Cellar Teaching Kitchen (limited seats)
Online: Live via Zoom (link provided after registration)

Please register thoughtfully

Space is limited for the in-person experience, so we ask that you only register if you reasonably plan to attend.

If your plans change, cancelling your registration helps open spots for others who would love to join.

Rediscover soda—made with real ingredients and living flavour

There’s something undeniably enjoyable about a bubbly drink—but most modern sodas are far removed from what they once were.

In this free introductory class, you’ll explore how to bring soda back to life using real ingredients, herbal infusions, and simple techniques you can use at home.

We’ll taste Light Cellar’s fermented sodas inspired by classic flavours and show you how easy it is to create your own refreshing drinks using syrups, hydrosols, and sparkling water.

In this class, you’ll learn:

• How traditional sodas were originally made using real ingredients

• The difference between conventional soda and naturally crafted alternatives

• How to turn herbal syrups into refreshing, bubbly drinks

• How hydrosols can be used to add aroma, flavour, and function

• Simple flavour combinations inspired by classic and modern recipes

• How to start making better beverages at home right away

What you’ll experience:

• Tasting of Light Cellar fermented sodas

• Live demo: turning syrups + hydrosols into sodas using sparkling water

• Flavour inspiration from classic soda profiles

• Practical ideas you can immediately recreate at home

Choose your experience:

In-Person Experience

• Full tasting experience

• Direct interaction and Q&A

• Immersive, sensory environment

Online Experience

• Join live from home

• Full teaching + Q&A

• Great for those outside Calgary or unable to attend in person

Continue your learning:

If you want to go deeper, the next step is:

Be Your Own Soda Maker - June 10th
Learn how to craft naturally fermented, probiotic sodas using kombucha, water kefir, ginger bug, and more.

Who this is for:

• Anyone who loves soda but wants a healthier alternative

• People curious about herbal drinks and natural flavouring

• Those looking for simple, fun recipes to make at home

• Families wanting better beverage options

Instructor

with Chef Alex Hamilton

Alex is currently the chef and culinary wizard at the Light Cellar and has a catering business called Feast. He has been cooking professionally for 23 years. He has cooked in many of Calgary’s top restaurants and even worked in China and Los Angeles. Having experience in all aspects of cooking and baking, he loves exploring other cultures' food and applying techniques to local ingredients. His current focus is foraging and fermentation, getting to know the Calgary area’s flora and fauna. He is deepening his understanding of the local supply chain and how to best utilize it and lessen waste.  He explores how to make delicious food healthy and healthy food delicious, integrating time honored food traditions that promote better well being.   There is a deep importance for a healthier and more synergistic relationship with food and the energy systems of our body. 

After you register:

All participants will receive:

• A reminder email with full event details

• The link to join live (for online attendees)

• Access to the session recording after the class

• Any relevant notes or resources shared during the session

If you can’t attend live, you’re still welcome to register and watch the replay.