Event Review: Dogfish Head Ancient Ales Dinner at Monk's Cafe (9/23/14)

As I attempt to regain some traction here at The Brew Lounge with more routine and predictable writings, it might be fitting that I bring back some of the mojo with a piece about last night's dinner at Monk's Cafe in Philadelphia. Fitting because it was writing of a dinner at Monk's in 2005 that got things going for me here (it's not the prettiest of writings, not to mention a bit humbling). It was a dinner with Dominique Friart of St. Feuillien in Belgium and can be found here if you're inclined to click back through the time machine to the early days of The Brew Lounge.

Last night's dinner also served to snap an unintentional personal hiatus from beer dinners at Monk's. Looking back through my "archives", it turns out to be a bit more than two years since the last dinner. No complaints there — it was a dinner with Vinnie Cilurzo (Russian River), Brian Grossman (Sierra Nevada), and Brian Morin (beerbistro). Wow, just reading it again...no complaints whatsoever. And in no way explains my two-plus year absence from Monk's dinners.

Last night, it was Patrick McGovern, professor at the University of Pennsylvania, and Wendy Domurat of Dogfish Head holding court at the lauded Monk's Cafe in Philadelphia with the full lineup of beers that McGovern has partnered with at the groundbreaking brewery in Delaware over the years in a series that has become known as Ancient Ales. McGovern, in his introductory comments to the dinner, described how it was a tasting of aged Chimay coincidentally with the owner, Tom Peters, of Monk's Cafe that began him on his interest in the concept of aged beers and his pursuit to work with Dogfish Head to uncover some of the believed oldest beer ingredients and recipes.

Throughout the last few years, a dinner concept has sprung forth both at the brewery's pub in Rehoboth Beach, Del. and restaurants across the country that features some of the beers from the collection served with plates of food meant to enhance the tasting experience. At Monk's, the full series was in attendance — minus, it was noted, the Chicha, which got a chuckle from all who know it as the "spit beer". Google it if you'd like to learn more.

The Dogfish Head series of Ancient Ales is comprised of, in order of introduction to the beer-loving market: Midas Touch (Turkey - honey, white muscat grapes, and saffron); Chateau Jiahu (China - hawthorn fruit, sake rice, barley, and honey); Theobroma (Honduras - cocoa, honey, chilies, and annatto); Sah'tea (Finland - rye, juniper, and black chai tea); Ta Henket (Egypt - chamomile, doum palm fruit, and Middle Eastern herbs); Birra Etrusca Bronze (Italy, Ethiopia - hazelnut flour, pomegranates, Italian chestnut honey, Delaware wildflower honey and clover honey, gentian root, and Ethiopian myrrh resin); Kvasir (Denmark - lingonberries, cranberries, myrica gale, yarrow, honey, and birch syrup).

McGovern, while not tipping his hand, promises another beer in the Ancient Ales series being worked on to be released in the near future.

Scallops

Duck Breast

Pork Tenderloin

Pear Tarte Tatin

Now to some tasting notes:

Amuse Bouche
Ta Henket served with Olive Tapenade
~ It was fitting to begin the dinner with a piece of chewy baguette and Olive Tapenade, which itself has a history that dates back millenia. Perfect as the opening taste for the dinner along with the Ta Henket and its soft herbal flavor.

First Course
Birra Etrusca Bronze served with Scallops with Pomegranate and Cauliflower Puree
~ Two perfectly-cooked scallops with a neutral cauliflower puree that served to counter the perfumy and slightly bitter beer.

Second Course
Midas Touch served with Heirloom Tomato Salad with Pickled Shallot, Fennel Blossom, and Cucumber Water
~ A refreshing end-of-season dish of ripe tomatoes and my personal favorite beer from the Ancient Ales collection, an almost Mead-like beer.

Third Course
Sah'tea served with Duck Breast with Arugula and Sah'tea-cooked figs
~ Tender duck meat, sweet figs, and delightfully aromatic beer stepped up the dinner to another level.

Fourth Course
Chateau Jiahu served with Brook Trout with Smoked Potatoes and Spinach Puree
~ The triple-play of animal meat courses continued with a fish dish (the Brook Trout, which I later learned is a state fish of Pennsylvania) that had a nice crunchy skin to it and picked up a nice smokey characteristic from the potatoes.

Fifth Course
Theobroma served with Pork Tenderloin with Sweet Potato Puree and Brussels Sprouts
~ My hands-down favorite combination of the dinner. Succulent stuffed pork, earthy brussel sprouts, sweet (emphasis) potatoes and a clean and dry beer with slightly bitter hints of cocoa nibs. A very close second in my personal ranking of the Ancient Ales.

Sixth Course
Kvasir served with Pear Tarte Tatin
~ I typically look to a home run in the dessert course; here, a wonderfully sweet and flaky pear dessert unfortunately didn't play well enough with the sharply tart Kvasir. Still, a tasty end to a wonderful dinner and night at Monk's Cafe.

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Weekly Beer Calendar Update: September 18 - September 24

The hits keep on coming. Great fall weather, great beer events. What's not to like?

Click through here for a look at the full monthly calendar of beer events around the Philadelphia region.

Allentown, Pa.
Sat. 9/20; 12 p.m. - Bacon and Brews Bash @Coca-Cola Park ($5-$50 as multiple vendors will be selling beer and bacon-related food items.)

Boyertown, Pa.
Fri. 9/19 and Sat. 9/20; 5 p.m.-9 p.m. and 11 a.m.-9 p.m. - Oktoberfest @Inner Core Parking Lot ($PAYG for some of the region's best local food, beer, and wine vendors.)

Cape May, NJ
Sun. 9/21; 1 p.m.-3 p.m. - A Taste Of Cape May @Convention Hall in Cape May, NJ ($30 for Cape May area wineries and the Cape May Brewing Company alongside Cape May’s fine restaurants, along with local artisans and crafts persons displaying their food and wine-related merchandise.)

Downingtown, Pa.
Sat. 9/20; 2 p.m.-6:30 p.m. - Parkesburg Brewery Tour @Victory Brewing Company ($58 for a chartered bus trip, tour, and Victory beer and food experience in our Parkesburg brewery.)
Sun. 9/21; 7 a.m.-3 p.m. - PASA’s Bike Fresh Bike Local @Victory Brewing Company ($40-$45 for a choice of a 25, 50, or 75 mile bike route (all routes begin and end at the Downingtown Tech Center, adjacent to Victory) and lunch and Victory draft beer after the ride.)

Ewing, NJ
Fri. 9/19; 7 p.m. - IPA Release Party @River Horse Brewing Company ($15 for the release of the new year-round IPA.)

Lancaster, Pa.
Fri. 9/19; 5 p.m. - Long Trail Tap Takeover @Isaac's Pickle Bar ($PAYG when all taps are dedicated to September's featured brewery — Long Trail Brewing Company from Vermont.)

Media, Pa.
Fri. 9/19; 11 a.m. - Sour Bottom @Pinocchio's ($PAYG for some harder to find sour/wild ales, as well as some of our other favorite beers.)
Tue. 9/23; 7:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. - Artisan Cheese and Beer Tasting @Pinocchio's ($35 for five Valley Shepherd Creamery cheeses paired with five excellent craft beers.)

Newark, Del.
Thu. 9/18; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. - Beer & Grilled Cheese Pairing @Iron Hill ($PAYG for unique grilled cheese sandwiches paired with Boulder Bank IPA, Blackburn Stout, Pumpkin Weiss, and Abbey Dubbel.)

Newtown, Pa.
Thu. 9/18; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. - Tap Takeover with Firestone Walker @Isaac Newton's ($PAYG for Pale 31 California Pale Ale, Union Jack IPA, Double DBA Imperial Special Bitter, Pivo Hoppy Pilsner, Oaktoberfest Paso Märzen, Double Jack Imperial IPA, and two cases of Stickee Monkee Central Coast Quad.)
Sat. 9/20; 12:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. - Newtown Beerfest @The Stocking Works ($10-$75 for beer tasting, live music, food, and fun.)

Norristown, Pa.
Thu. 9/18; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. - Chouffe Brewery Draft Event @Capone's ($PAYG for La Chouffe, Houblon Chouffe, McChouffe, and lots of great brewery swag to be given out including free Chouffe Festival tickets.)

North Wales, Pa.
Sat. 9/20; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. - Pumpkinfest Multi-Tap @Iron Hill ($PAYG for eight pumpkin beers and two guest breweries.)

Philadelphia, Pa.
Thu. 9/18 - Pop-Up Beer Garden at Mayfair Third Thursdays Night Market @Cottman and Frankford Avenues (5 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG for a pop-up beer garden courtesy of the Grey Lodge along with local businesses, a produce stand courtesy of Capriotti Brothers Fruit & Produce, artisans, crafters, food vendors, live music, and entertainment for the kids and families.)
Fri. 9/19; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. - Heavy Seas Talk Like a Pirate Night @Grey Lodge ($PAYG to join in the attempt to set the record for the most casks of beer being tapped simultaneously in the Guinness Book of World Records.)
Sat. 9/20; 12 p.m. - Zwanze Day @Monk s Café ($PAYG for at least four Cantillon beers including the 2014 Cuvée Florian.)
Sat. 9/20; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. - Germantown Avenue Brewers Cartel - Brew Pub Crawl @Earth Bread + Brewery, Iron Hill, and Barren Hill breweries ($20 for a continuous bus loop between all three Germantown Avenue breweries to sample their collaborative beers.)
Sat. 9/20; 2 p.m.-6 p.m. - Oktoberfest @Perch Pub ($PAYG for an afternoon of fun and German beer from Victory Brewing.)
Sat. 9/20 and Sun. 9/21; 10 a.m.-10 p.m. - Pumpkinfest @Hop Angel Brauhaus ($PAYG for a variety of pumpkin beers, a variety of pumpkin foods, and some pumpkin fun.)
Sun. 9/21; 12 p.m. - Scrambled Eggs and Wobbly Legs: A Beer Lover's Brunch with Founders Brewery @World Café Live ($35 as we pair some of Founders' most coveted beers including Bolt Cutter, Sweet Repute, Backwoods Bastard, and Devil Dancer.)
Mon. 9/22 through Sun. 9/28 - Oktoberfest Back to School Glassware Promo @Local 44 ($PAYG for two free tall German bier glasses with the purchase of two German beers, styles and brands will vary.)
Tue. 9/23; 6:30 p.m. - Yards Tap Takeover and Dinner @Hard Rock Café ($50-$55 for a four-course meal paired with IPA, Pale Ale, Brawler, and Pynk with a portion of the night’s proceeds going to the Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Coalition.)
Tue. 9/23; 7 p.m. - Ancient Ales Dinner @Monk’s Café ($70 for a dinner to appropriate for Dogfish Head's series of Ancient Ales beers.)
Wed. 9/24; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. - Four Year Anniversary Party @Independence Seaport Museum ($20 to don your best cocktail attire for a night of delicious treats and jazzy beats and a portion of the proceeds will go to Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation to aid childhood cancer research.)
Wed. 9/24; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. - U Buy The Glass Event @The Abbaye ($PAYG for a few Sly Fox specialties, prizes, and giveaways.)

Phoenixville, Pa.
Fri. 9/19; - Third Friday Firkin Fest @Sly Fox Brewing Company (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG for Sly Fox's Jake's ESB and Hop Project 05256, a single hopped pale ale/IPA hybrid brewed and dry hopped with a new experimental high alpha hop variety, on the handpump.)
Sat. 9/20; 11:30 a.m. - Out Of The Cellar 5th Anniversary @Bistro On Bridge ($PAYG for a special lineup of beers befitting a 5th anniversary party.)

Somerdale, NJ
Wed. 9/24; 4 p.m.-8 p.m. - Barrel-aged Wednesdays @Flying Fish Brewing Company in Somerdale, NJ ($PAYG as we tap a new barrel-aged beer each Wednesday.)

Southampton, Pa.
Sun. 9/21; 12 p.m. - Zwanze Hangover Day @Churchville Inn ($PAYG for around a couple dozen sour beers by draft and the bottle, including Cantillon’s Mamouche, Vigneronne, and Gueuze.)

Stone Harbor, NJ
Sat. 9/20; 12 p.m.-8 p.m. - Savor September @96th Street Shopping District ($PAYG for a day of wine and beer tastings, grape stomping, kid's activities, spectacular foods, local artists, and more.)

Voorhees, NJ
Fri. 9/19; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. - Cinderella’s Carriage Beer Release @Iron Hill Brewery ($PAYG for the release of our light amber, fuller-bodied Belgian-style pumpkin ale spiced with cinnamon, clove, allspice and nutmeg.)

Wayne, Pa.
Thu. 9/18; 7 p.m. - Sly Fox Beer Dinner @Peppercorn ($49 for a four-course meal paired with beers from Sly Fox.)
Fri. 9/19 - Summit Comes To Town @Teresa's Next Door ($PAYG as Adam Cox from Summit Brewing with a special firkin, a few regular offerings, and one or two special offerings.)
Sat. 9/20; 1 p.m.-4 p.m. - DelCo SPCA Fundraiser @Beer Yard ($PAYG with activities sponsored by Beer Yard, Tröegs, Teresa's Next Door, and Gretz Beer Company with donations from every case Tröegs sold from 9/19-9/21.)

Wilmington, Del.
Thu. 9/18; 12 p.m. - Bday Party #2 @Two Stones Pub ($PAYG for giveaways and phenomenal beers on tap.)

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Weekly Beer Calendar Update: September 11 - September 17

Same great weekly beer event calendar content; slightly new format. Great taste, just as filling. Enjoy!

Click through here for a look at the full monthly calendar of beer events around the Philadelphia region.

Atlantic City, NJ
Sat. 9/13 and Sun. 9/14; 11 a.m.-7 p.m. and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. - Atlantic City Seafood Festival @Bader Field [$Free admission + $PAYG for children’s activities, cooking demos, live music, local art and artists, wine seminars and tastings, Great Brews on NJ Tasting Tent, crab-eating competition, and a chowder cook-off benefiting the Community Food Bank of New Jersey.]

Camden, NJ
Sat. 9/13; 5:35 p.m. - Oktoberfest/Fan Appreciation @Campbell Field [$PAYG for a menu featuring German beer selections as well as roast pork and sauerkraut, bratwurst, knockwurst, Ruben sandwiches, apple crisp, and more.]

Cape May, NJ
Tue. 9/16 - Cape May Craft Beer Dinner @Aleathea's at the Inn of Cape May in Cape May, NJ [Hosted by Gary Monterosso and featuring Watermelon Wheat, Devil's Reach, Honey Porter, and Sawyer's Swap.]

Downingtown, Pa.
Fri. 9/12; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. - Victory Beer-Infused Food Tasting @Victory Brewing Company [$Free samples of Key Ingredient Beer and Cheddar Spreads (three delicious flavors), Righteous Felon Victorious B.I.G. Storm King-infused beef jerky, Crisp & Co. Prima Pils Pint Pickles, Homesweet Homegrown Punch Drunk hot sauce and for dessert, Victory ice cream.]
Sun. 9/14; 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. - Brunch and Firestone Walker Pairing @Station Taproom [$50 for a four-course meal paired with Pivo Pils, California Pale Ale, Wookey Jack, and Double Jack American Double IPA.]

Hershey, Pa.
Sat. 9/13; 2 p.m.-4 p.m. - Yards Beer Tasting and Home Brew Seminar (at the Hotel Hershey Wine and Food Festival) @The Hotel Hershey [$48 to learn all about the home brewing process and have the opportunity to taste beer with Yards Brewery ultimate Home Brewer, Andrew Howard and Head Brewer, Tim Roberts.]

Lancaster, Pa.
Sat. 9/13; 11 a.m. - 3rd Anniversary Customer Appreciation Celebration @The Fridge [$PAYG for a day of outstanding beer, food, prizes, and people to celebrate our 3rd anniversary.]
Sat. 9/13; 3 p.m.-5 p.m. - Saturday Brew Review @Isaac's Pickle Bar [$25 for a four-course meal paired perfectly with four brewmaster picks from Long Trail Brewing Company.]

Limerick, Pa.
Wed. 9/17; 5 p.m. - To Love A Canine @Craft Ale House ($PAYG for La Chouffe Golden Ale, Houblon Chouffe, McChouffe Brune, N'ice Chouffe, and Liefmans Goudenband. Come and drink with little Gnomes running around the bar . . . and maybe through your head — all to raise money for To Love a Canine Rescue.)

Media, Pa.
Thu. 9/11; 6 p.m. - Lieny's Event @Pinocchio's [$PAYG for the Uber, Oktoberfest, and Orange Shandy.]
Wed. 9/17; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. - La Chouffe Night @Pinocchio's [$PAYG for a night with beers from La Chouffe.]

Norristown, Pa.
Sun. 9/14; 12 p.m.-3:30 p.m. - Oktoberfest Beer Tasting Festival @Elmwood Park Zoo [$40-$75 for dozens of beers for unlimited sampling, a variety of local food trucks, live entertainment by The Regan Brothers Band and DJ George Gibson, live animal encounters, raffles, and much more.]

Philadelphia, Pa.
Thu. 9/11; 11:30 a.m. - Tap List Expansion Party @Memphis Taproom [$PAYG for a celebration draft list to christen the new lines.]
Thu. 9/11; 5 p.m.-10 p.m. - An Evening with Rob Tod of Allagash @Kite & Key [$PAYG for some of our favorite Allagash brews, a special treat form Allagash Suzy and Chris LaPierre of Iron Hill, and a surprise treat from Rob Tod.]
Fri. 9/12; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. - Be a Happy Camper! — Sierra Beer Camp @Grey Lodge [$PAYG for seven of the twelve collaboration beers on tap.]
Sat. 9/13 and Sun. 9/14; 11 a.m. - Wild In The Streets @Khyber Pass Pub [$PAYG for a daylong event of sour and wild beers, including Bullfrog, Cantillon, Firestone Walker, Jolly Pumpkin, Russian River, and others.]
Sat. 9/13; 12 p.m.-8 p.m. - Pils Picnic @Johnny Brenda's [$PAYG for local pilsners, picnic fare, and a breezy mix of doo-wop and classic R&B.]
Sat. 9/13; 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. - Beer and Brewing 101 @Philly Beer School [$39.98 for an introduction to how beer is made, major beer styles, and brewing history. Eight different brews will be sampled.]
Sat. 9/13; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. - Sippin' By The River @The River Deck [$10-$50 for an assortment of great wines and beers, entertainment, live music, and much more.]
Sun. 9/14; 12 p.m.-4 p.m. - Smoke 'Em If Yous Got 'Em @Yards Brewing Company [$20-$50 for a celebration of BBQ, beer, Philly, and the final days of Summer.]
Mon. 9/15 through Sun. 9/21 - Wells Bombadier Back to School Glassware Promo @Local 44 [$PAYG for one free Wells glass with the purchase of a Wells Bombadier on the handpump.]
Tue. 9/16; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. - Beer Sampling (Starr Hill) @Bottles Packs and Growlers, Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free tasting samples of beer from Starr Hill in Virginia.]
Tue. 9/16; 4 p.m. - Yards Happy Hour @Grace Tavern [$PAYG to hang out with Yards' own Doug Mashington and featured beers from the brewery.]
Wed. 9/17; 6 p.m. - Local Brews & Local Grooves @TLA [$10 for beers from six local breweries and music from four local bands.]

Somerdale, NJ
Sat. 9/13; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. - Bogs, Beers, and Native Plants @Flying Fish Brewing Company [$PAYG for beer from Flying Fish, cheese from Cherry Grove, and RareFind Nursey on hand to answer questions about native plants and have a wide variety of them for sale.]
Wed. 9/17; 4 p.m.-8 p.m. - Barrel-aged Wednesdays @Flying Fish Brewing Company [$PAYG as we tap a new barrel-aged beer each Wednesday.]

Wayne, Pa.
Tue. 9/16 - Talk Like A Pirate Day with Jef Versele @Teresa's Next Door [$PAYG as the owner and brewer of Van Steenberge will be in the house.]

West Chester, Pa.
Sat. 9/13 and Sun. 9/14; 12 p.m.-2 p.m. - Harvest Beer Brunch @Iron Hill [$35 for a five-course brunch paired with Old Tom Barley Wine, Vienna Lager, Anise Saison, Experimental IPA, and Pumpkin Coffee Porter.]

Wilmington, Del.
Sat. 9/13; 1 p.m.-6 p.m. - Out of Our Gourds @Iron Hill in Wilmington, Del. [$PAYG for eight pumpkin beers, three guest breweries, and plenty of pumpkin-inspired fare.]
Tue. 9/16 - Yards vs. Sly Fox Beer Dinner @Tyler Fitzgerald's in Wilmington, Del. [Details TBA.]

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Ryan Michaels joins Rinn Duin

Very pleased to hear that one of my "breakout surprises" from the book research (yes, that book research) earlier this year - Rinn Duin Brewing in NJ - has picked up multiple award-winning former McKenzie Brew House brewer, Ryan Michaels, who began on Aug. 25 as the head brewer.

The River Toms English IPA was one of the strong entries at this relatively young brewery when I visited back in the spring. Michaels will be building out some of his own recipes, including a smoked porter and wee heavy in the near-term, as he grows up a portfolio all of his own. Best wishes and congratulations to both on their continued growth.

p.s. if you'd like a short pronunciation tutorial, go with "Rinn Doon" and you'll be just fine.

(the tastier stuff is to the left at Rinn Duin)

(a look across the spacious Rinn Duin brewery)

(Chip Town, co-owner Rinn Duin)

(The River Toms, an English IPA from Rinn Duin)

(in 2011, left to right: Tim Smith-Chef, Station Taproom; Jean Broillet-owner/brewer, Tired Hands (in 2011, was readying a transition from Iron Hill to his own Tired Hands); Sean McGettigan-owner, Station Taproom; Jon Defibaugh-brewer, Tired Hands (in 2011, was at Earth Bread + Brewery); and Ryan Michaels)

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Beer Calendar: What To Do in September 2014

It feels good to be back. Hard to believe but it's been a few months (basically the entirety of the summer) that you've not heard from me here in this 9-year-old Brew Lounge space. As many of you know (and, I'm still surprised at those that do not), I've been off writing a book due to be entitled "Beer Lover's Mid-Atlantic" and published this coming winter.

I've been working on it since February and sustained The Brew Lounge updates until the end of May. I missed out on all of Philly Beer Week and finally surrendered to the crushing workload that the book research and writing took on an already fairly busy lifestyle and left The Brew Lounge go quiet for a few months.

The first-draft manuscript was submitted on August 13 just after 7 a.m. and too many near sleepless nights. As I await the return of an edited version of the manuscript, it feels so satisfying to get back with you all here (trusting that we'll find each other again in this temperamental world of inter-tangled webs and nets) with one of the most anticipated and appreciated aspects of what I do here at The Brew Lounge — provide the most comprehensive beer events calendar in the Philadelphia region. Many of you have expressed to me your appreciation for it and missing of it during its absence this summer.

So I've shaken off the rust and put my calendar compilation skills back to work and submit to you this September 2014 version for your use.

And in my long-running affinity for the good work being done over at PhillyTapFinder.com, don't forget to tap into them for what is being served at some of the events listed below.

Finally, as always, if I'm missing any that you feel should be on here, let me know.


$20 and under, down to and including FREE...Pay As You Go (PAYG) also included here

Philadelphia
Tue. 9/2 - Port Brewing and Lost Abbey @Resurrection Ale House in Philadelphia, Pa. (12 p.m.; $PAYG)
Tue. 9/2 through Sun. 9/7 - Dogfish Head Back to School Glassware Promo @Local 44 in Philadelphia, Pa. ($PAYG)
Tue. 9/2 through Tue. 9/9 - Two Month Long Closing Party continues @Resurrection Ale House in Philadelphia, Pa. (Check website for daily specials.)
Wed. 9/3 - Philly Grown & Raised @Iron Hill in Philadelphia, Pa. (5 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 9/4 - Free Beer Thursday (BelUK Imports) @The Foodery (Roxborough), Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free)
Fri. 9/5 - Beer Sampling (Evolution) @Bottles Packs and Growlers, Philadelphia, Pa. (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $Free)
Fri. 9/5 - Beer Tasting (Long Trail) @The Bottle Shop, Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free)
Fri. 9/5 - Manayunk Flood Waters Chocolate Hefeweizen Release @Grey Lodge in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 9/5 - First Friday & Flying Dog Brewing @The Institute, Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 9/6 - Lego Build Off With Flying Dog @The Institute, Philadelphia, Pa. (2 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 9/6 - Beer Sampling (Sixpoint) @Bottles Packs and Growlers, Philadelphia, Pa. (3 p.m.-5 p.m.; $Free)
Sat. 9/6 - 7th Anniversary Party @The Belgian Café in Philadelphia, Pa. ($PAYG)
Mon. 9/8 through Sun. 9/14 - Scaldis Back to School Glassware Promo @Local 44 in Philadelphia, Pa. ($PAYG)
Tue. 9/9 - Back To School Night in the Beer Garden @Memphis Taproom in Philadelphia, Pa. (4 p.m.-7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 9/10 - Allagash Clam Fest @South Philadelphia Tap Room in Philadelphia, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 9/10 - Collaboration Sensation @Bainbridge Street Barrel House in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 9/11 - Tap List Expansion Party @Memphis Taproom in Philadelphia, Pa. (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 9/11 - An Evening with Rob Tod of Allagash @Kite & Key in Philadelphia, Pa. (5 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 9/12 - Be a Happy Camper! — Sierra Beer Camp @Grey Lodge in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 9/13 and Sun. 9/14 - Wild In The Streets @Khyber Pass Pub in Philadelphia, Pa. (11 a.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 9/13 - Pils Picnic @Johnny Brenda's in Philadelphia, Pa. (12 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Mon. 9/15 through Sun. 9/21 - Wells Bombadier Back to School Glassware Promo @Local 44 in Philadelphia, Pa. ($PAYG)
Tue. 9/16 - Beer Sampling (Starr Hill) @Bottles Packs and Growlers in Philadelphia, Pa. (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $Free)
Tue. 9/16 - Yards Happy Hour @Grace Tavern in Philadelphia, Pa. (4 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 9/17 - Local Brews & Local Grooves @TLA in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.; $10)
Thu. 9/18 - Pop-Up Beer Garden at Mayfair Third Thursdays Night Market @Cottman and Frankford Avenues in Philadelphia, Pa. (5 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 9/19 - Heavy Seas Talk Like a Pirate Night @Grey Lodge in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 9/20 - Zwanze Day @Monk’s Café in Philadelphia, Pa. (12 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 9/20 - Germantown Avenue Brewers Cartel - Brew Pub Crawl @Earth Bread + Brewery, Iron Hill, and Barren Hill breweries in Philadelphia (and Lafayette Hill), Pa. (12 p.m.-5 p.m.; $20)
Sat. 9/20 - Oktoberfest @Perch Pub in Philadelphia, Pa. (2 p.m.-6 p.m.; $PAYG for an afternoon of fun and German beer from Victory Brewing.)
Sat. 9/20 and Sun. 9/21 - Pumpkinfest @Hop Angel Brauhaus in Philadelphia, Pa. (10 a.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG)
Mon. 9/22 through Sun. 9/28 - Oktoberfest Back to School Glassware Promo @Local 44 in Philadelphia, Pa. ($PAYG)
Wed. 9/24 - Four Year Anniversary Party @Independence Seaport Museum in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $20)
Wed. 9/24 - U Buy The Glass Event @The Abbaye in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 9/25 - Free Will Tap Takeover @Bridgewater's Pub in Philadelphia, Pa. (4 p.m.-7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 9/25 - Cape Of Good Hope Release Party @Good Dog in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 9/26 - Beer Sampling (Great Lakes and Smuttynose) @Bottles Packs and Growlers, Philadelphia, Pa. (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $Free)
Fri. 9/26 - Yuengling Oktoberfest @Grey Lodge in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 9/26 through Sun. 9/28 - Oktoberfest Celebration @Alla Spina in Philadelphia, Pa. ($PAYG)
Fri. 9/26 through Sun. 9/28 - Free Will Weekend for the Rena Rowan Breast Center @Devil's Den in Philadelphia, Pa. ($PAYG)
Sat. 9/27 and Sun. 9/28 - Oktoberfest @Hop Angel Brauhaus in Philadelphia, Pa. (10 a.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sun. 9/28 - 10 Yards with Tom Kehoe @Jose Pistola's in Philadelphia, Pa. (3:30 p.m.; $PAYG)


Philadelphia's close suburbs (within 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Wednesdays in September - Barrel-aged Wednesdays @Flying Fish Brewing Company in Somerdale, NJ (4 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 9/4 - MS Fundraiser with Prism Brewing @Fingers Wings and Other Things in Conshohocken, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 9/4 - Yards Night @Hulmeville Inn in Hulmeville, Pa. (7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 9/4 - Penn Sampling @Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. ($PAYG)
Wed. 9/10 - Allagash Happy Hour with Rob Tod @Teresa's Next Door in Wayne, Pa. (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 9/11 - Lieny's Event @Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. (6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 9/13 - Bogs, Beers, and Native Plants @Flying Fish Brewing Company in Somerdale, NJ (11 a.m.-4 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 9/13 - Oktoberfest/Fan Appreciation @Campbell Field in Camden, NJ (5:35 p.m.; $PAYG)
Tue. 9/16 - Talk Like A Pirate Day with Jef Versele @Teresa's Next Door in Wayne, Pa. ($PAYG)
Wed. 9/17 - La Chouffe Night @Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 9/18 - Chouffe Brewery Draft Event @Capone's in Norristown, Pa. (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 9/19 - Summit Comes To Town @Teresa's Next Door in Wayne, Pa. ($PAYG)
Fri. 9/19 - Sour Bottom @Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. (11 a.m.; $PAYG for some harder to find sour/wild ales, as well as some of our other favorite beers.)
Sat. 9/20 - DelCo SPCA Fundraiser @Beer Yard in Wayne, Pa. (1 p.m.-4 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 9/20 - Pumpkinfest Multi-Tap @Iron Hill in North Wales, Pa. (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sun. 9/21 - Zwanze Hangover Day @Churchville Inn in Southampton, Pa. (12 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 9/25 - Flying Fish Tap Takeover @Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. (7 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 9/27 - Blue Monkey and Niagara Fire Company’s Oktoberfest @Blue Monkey Tavern in Merchantville, NJ (5 p.m.-9 p.m.)


Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other (beyond 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Tue. 9/2 - Cape of Good Hope Launch Party @Home Grown Cafe in Newark, Del. (6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 9/3 - Welcome Back Wednesday @Craft Ale House in Limerick, Pa. (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 9/3 - Charity Cask Night (September's beer: Orange Haven Zomerbier) @Allentown Brew Works in Allentown, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 9/4 - Happy Hour with Bell's @TJ's, Paoli, Pa. (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 9/4 - Charity Cask Night (September's beer: Spaceman Belgian IPA) @Bethlehem Brew Works in Bethlehem, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 9/5 - Incubus Friday @Sly Fox Brewing Company in Phoenixville and Pottstown, Pa. (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 9/5 - Friday Night Beer Tasting (Firestone Walker) @Washington House in Sellersville, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Mon. 9/8 - Full Moon Firkin @Tröegs Brewery in Hershey, Pa. (11 a.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 9/12 - Victory Beer-Infused Food Tasting @Victory Brewing Company in Downingtown, Pa. (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free)
Sat. 9/13 - 3rd Anniversary Customer Appreciation Celebration @The Fridge in Lancaster, Pa. (11 a.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 9/13 - Out of Our Gourds @Iron Hill in Wilmington, Del. (1 p.m.-6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 9/17 - To Love A Canine @Craft Ale House in Limerick, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 9/18 - Bday Party #2 @Two Stones Pub in Wilmington, Del. (12 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 9/18 - Beer & Grilled Cheese Pairing @Iron Hill in Newark, Del. (5 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 9/18 - Tap Takeover with Firestone Walker @Isaac Newton's in Newtown, Pa. (7 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 9/19 - Third Friday Firkin Fest @Sly Fox Brewing Company in Phoenixville, Pa. (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 9/19 - Cinderella’s Carriage Beer Release @Iron Hill Brewery in Voorhees, NJ (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 9/19 - Long Trail Tap Takeover @Isaac's Pickle Bar in Lancaster, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 9/19 - IPA Release Party @River Horse Brewing Company in Ewing, NJ (7 p.m.; $15)
Sat. 9/20 - Out Of The Cellar 5th Anniversary @Bistro On Bridge in Phoenixville, Pa. (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 9/19 and Sat. 9/20 - Oktoberfest @Inner Core Parking Lot in Boyertown, Pa. (5 p.m.-9 p.m. and 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 9/20 - Savor September @96th Street Shopping District in Stone Harbor, NJ (12 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 9/27 and Sun. 9/28 - Okotberfest Opening Weekend @Stoudts Brewing Company in Adamstown, Pa. (12 p.m.; $8 admission + $PAYG)
Sat. 9/27 - Can Jam Festival @Sly Fox Brewing Company in Pottstown, Pa. (11 a.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 9/27 - Cape May Brewery Tap Takeover @Harry's Ocean Bar and Grille in Cape May, NJ (6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sun. 9/28 - Downingtown Fall Fest along Lancaster Avenue in downtown Downingtown, Pa. (12 p.m.-4 p.m.; $PAYG)



Events Over $20

Philadelphia
Wed. 9/3 - Farm To Bar Dinner @Jerry's Bar in Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $65)
Sat. 9/6 - SmörgåsBeer'd @American Swedish Historical Museum in Philadelphia, Pa. (5 p.m.-8 p.m.; $25-$30)
Sat. 9/13 - Sippin' By The River @The River Deck, Philadelphia, Pa. (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $10-$50)
Sat. 9/13 - Beer and Brewing 101 @Philly Beer School in Philadelphia, Pa. (4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.; $39.98)
Sun. 9/14 - Smoke 'Em If Yous Got 'Em @Yards Brewing Company in Philadelphia, Pa. (12 p.m.-4 p.m.; $20-$50)
Sun. 9/21 - Scrambled Eggs and Wobbly Legs: A Beer Lover's Brunch with Founders Brewery @World Café Live in Philadelphia, Pa. (12 p.m.; $35)
Tue. 9/23 - Yards Tap Takeover and Dinner @Hard Rock Café in Philadelphia, Pa. (6:30 p.m.; $50-$55)
Tue. 9/23 - Ancient Ales Dinner @Monk’s Café in Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $70)
Sun. 9/28 - Bikes & Beers beginning @Yards Brewing Company in Philadelphia, Pa. (9:30 a.m.; $45)


Philadelphia's close suburbs (within 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Sat. 9/6 - Flying Fish 5K @Flying Fish Brewing Company in Somerdale, NJ (10 a.m.-6 p.m.; $45)
Sat. 9/6 - Welcome, Great Pumpkin @Iron Hill Brewery in Maple Shade, NJ (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 9/6 - MGK Brew Blast @Battleship New Jersey in Camden, NJ (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $35-$40)
Sat. 9/6 - Delaware River Craft Brewfest @PPL Park in Chester, Pa. (2 p.m.-6 p.m.; $10-$60)
Sun. 9/14 - Oktoberfest Beer Tasting Festival @Elmwood Park Zoo in Norristown, Pa. (12 p.m.-3:30 p.m.; $40-$75)
Thu. 9/18 - Sly Fox Beer Dinner @Peppercorn in Wayne, Pa. (7 p.m.; $49)
Tue. 9/23 - Artisan Cheese and Beer Tasting @Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. (7:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.; $35 for five Valley Shepherd Creamery cheeses paired with five excellent craft beers.)
Sat. 9/27 - Oktoberfest @Xfinity Live! in Philadelphia, Pa. (2 p.m.-7 p.m.; $15-$50)


Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other (beyond 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Thu. 9/4 - Grilled Cheese and Craft Beer Tasting @World Café Live in Wilmington, Del. (6 p.m.; $40)
Sat. 9/6 - Brews By The Bay @Cape May & Lewes Ferry Terminals in Cape May, NJ and Lewes, Del. (12 p.m.-4 p.m. and 4 p.m.-8 p.m.; $5-$60)
Sat. 9/6 - Historic Odessa Brewfest @Historic Odessa Foundation in Odessa, Del. (12 p.m.-6 p.m.; $10-$65)
Sat. 9/6 - Lancaster Craft Beerfest @Binns Park in Lancaster, Pa. (3 p.m.-7:30 p.m.; $12-$55)
Sat. 9/13 - Yards Beer Tasting and Home Brew Seminar (at the Hotel Hershey Wine and Food Festival) @The Hotel Hershey in Hershey, Pa. (2 p.m.-4 p.m.; $48)
Sat. 9/13 - Saturday Brew Review @Isaac's Pickle Bar in Lancaster, Pa. (3 p.m.-5 p.m.; $25)
Sat. 9/13 and Sun. 9/14 - Atlantic City Seafood Festival @Bader Field in Atlantic City, NJ (11 a.m.-7 p.m. and 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; $Free admission + $PAYG)
Sat. 9/13 and Sun. 9/14 - Harvest Beer Brunch @Iron Hill in West Chester, Pa. (12 p.m.-2 p.m.; $35)
Sun. 9/14 - Brunch and Firestone Walker Pairing @Station Taproom in Downingtown, Pa. (10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.; $50)
Tue. 9/16 - Cape May Craft Beer Dinner @Aleathea's at the Inn of Cape May in Cape May, NJ (Details TBA.)
Tue. 9/16 - Yards vs. Sly Fox Beer Dinner @Tyler Fitzgerald's in Wilmington, Del. (Details TBA.)
Sat. 9/20 - Bacon and Brews Bash @Coca-Cola Park in Allentown, Pa. (12 p.m.; $5-$50)
Sat. 9/20 - Newtown Beerfest @The Stocking Works in Newtown, Pa. (12:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m.; $10-$75)
Sat. 9/20 - Parkesburg Brewery Tour @Victory Brewing Company in Downingtown/Parkesburg, Pa. (2 p.m.-6:30 p.m.; $58)
Sun. 9/21 - PASA’s Bike Fresh Bike Local @Victory Brewing Company in Downingtown, Pa. (7 a.m.-3 p.m.; $40-$45)
Sun. 9/21 - A Taste Of Cape May @Convention Hall in Cape May, NJ (1 p.m.-3 p.m.; $30)
Sat. 9/27 - Harvest Hop Fest @World Café Live in Wilmington, Del. (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $42)
Sat. 9/27 - Red Shoe and Brew @Twin Lakes Brewery in Greenville, Del. (2 p.m.-6 p.m.; $55)
Sun. 9/28 - Dogfish Dash @Dogfish Head Craft Brewery in Milton, Del. (9 a.m.; $35)
Sun. 9/28 - Lititz Craft Beer Fest @Main Street in downtown Lititz, Pa. (2 p.m.-5 p.m.; $40)
Mon. 9/29 - Beer Dinner @Two Stones Pub, Kennett Square, Pa. (6:30 p.m.; $TBA)

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Beer Calendar: What To Do in June 2014

It should go without saying that under the heading of "what to do in June 2014", Philly Beer Week is right up there. Actually, you can get started on what to do in June and Philly Beer Week on Friday, May 30. The full list of scheduled events that fall under the "umbrella" of Philly Beer Week can be found over at the official site of PhillyBeerWeek.com.

PhillyTapFinder.com has done yeoman's work (yeo-woman's as well, thank you Kristy and Jared) for informing us not just when events are happening but what is being served at the events. Amazing utility that soothes my beating fermenter (I'll must work on a better cliche).

As for my annual "PBW spreadsheet", ah yes, the famed, the infamous, the once-outlawed, and the coveted PBW spreadsheet. Time and workload (namely the epic book that I'm working on) have got the better of me this year and there's no way possible that working up a spreadsheet was in the cards. Thanks to the surprising many of you that have reached out to me inquiring about the status of said spreadsheet this year. I trust you'll still be able to find your way around town, though I do agree, the spreadsheet in the past always made the planning part just a bit easier, or a lot as some of you have professed.

Now to June 2014. Here's what I've done. In fairness, and in an attempt to preserve some relative brevity and sanity, I've not listed any PBW events below. Instead, as I mentioned, just hit up the official site for all the scheduley goodness. I've picked up and attempted my best at capturing non-PBW events as well as the rest of the month, as if anyone will have energy remaining to do events from Monday, June 9 and on. But, apparently, there's no rest for the thirsty and you can see that evidence below. I've forgone my traditional format here, since the list is rather short. I'm confident you'll navigate it just fine.

With that, go forth and find great people and beer in and all around our fair (phair?, nah, don't do it) City of Philadelphia. Cheers to Happy Beer Weeking!

As always, if I'm missing any that you feel should be on here, let me know.

Fri. 5/30 through Sat. 6/7 - Spinny Beer Days @Spninerstown Hotel, Spinnerstown, Pa. (See website for all events and details of our Lehigh Valley version of Philly Beer Week.)
Fri. 5/30 through Sun. 6/8 - Philly Beer Week @hundreds of locations around Philadelphia, Pa. (See website for full list of events and details.)

Wednesdays in June - Barrel-aged Wednesdays @Flying Fish, Somerdale, NJ (4 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG as we tap a new barrel-aged beer each Wednesday.)

Wed. 6/4 - Charity Cask Night (Lehigh Valley Whalers for “Hockey Fights MS") @Allentown Brew Works, Allentown, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG as 100% of cask proceeds will be given to Lehigh Valley Whalers for “Hockey Fights MS".)
Wed. 6/4 - Dominion Beer Dinner @White Dog, Philadelphia, Pa. (6:30 p.m.; $45 for a four-course spring menu served with Dominion's Beach House Golden Pilsner, Abbey Ale, Double D Double IPA, and Oak Barrel Stout.)

Thu. 6/5 - Charity Cask Night @Bethlehem Brew Works, Bethlehem, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG as 100% of cask proceeds will be given to charity.)
Thu. 6/5 - Shelton Brothers Night @Pinocchio's, Media, Pa. (6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.; $PAYG for a whole bunch of interesting beers from Shelton Brothers on tap.)

Fri. 6/6 - Philly Beer Week Favorites @Washington House, Sellersville, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG for a lineup of beers from across the region.)

Sat. 6/7 - Grapes & Grains @Trump Taj Mahal, Atlantic City, NJ (4 p.m.-8 p.m.; $40 for the best of both worlds with a craft beer and wine sampling all under one roof.)

Wed. 6/11 - Saucony Creek Tap Take Over @Ulysses Gastropub, Wilmington, Del. (5 p.m.; $PAYG to taste beers from a best new brewery pick of Ratebeer.com.)

Thu. 6/12 - The Golden Child Beer Release @Iron Hill, Philadelphia, Pa. (4 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG for the release of The Golden Child—Gold Medal winner at the 2014 World Beer Cup. Also on tap will be a barrel-aged version of The Golden Child.)
Thu. 6/12 - Der Kaiser Kölsch Beer Release @Iron Hill, Newark, Del. (5 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG for our annual release of Der Kaiser Kölsch, named after the legendary German footballer Franz Beckenbauer.)
Thu. 6/12 - Widmer Growler Night @Pinocchio's, Media, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG as the first 12 people to buy half growlers get a free Widmer 32 oz growler.)
Thu. 6/12 - Beer Tasting (Flying Fish) @The Bottle Shop, Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beers from Flying Fish.)
Thu. 6/12 - Happy Hour with Firestone Walker @TJ's, Paoli, Pa. (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $PAYG for Opal Saison, Sucaba, Agrestic, Pivo Pils, Easy Jack, Union Jack, Double Jack, Wookey Jack, DBA, and Pale 31.)

Fri. 6/13 - Full Moon Firkin @Tröegs, Hershey, Pa. (11 a.m.; $PAYG for a bartop firkin of fun.)
Fri. 6/13 - Friday The Firkinteenth @Grey Lodge, Philadelphia, Pa. (12 p.m.-12 a.m.; $PAYG to choose from around 26 firkins of mostly local cask-conditioned beers.)
Fri. 6/13 - Beer Sampling (Smuttynose) @Bottles Packs and Growlers, Philadelphia, Pa. (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beer from Smuttynose.)
Fri. 6/13 - Friday the 13th Beer Wars @High Street Grill, Mount Holly, NJ (7 p.m.; $PAYG and dress up as your favorite horror character with beer reps from both Great Lakes and Clown Shoes, pick a side, and try new beers on tap.)

Fri. 6/13 through Sun. 6/15 - Big Bad Bourbon Barrel Beer Blowout @The Foodery (Roxborough), Philadelphia, Pa. (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG as only bourbon beer is on the list for the weekend. The beer will be accompanied with several paired food options including a specially made Foodery Sandwich.)

Sat. 6/14 - Father’s Appreciation Beer Brunch @Iron Hill, Maple Shade, NJ (12 p.m.-2 p.m.; $55 for a four-course meal paired with Mahalo, Apollo!, Maibock, Orange Truffle, and Belgian White.)
Sat. 6/14 - New Hope Beer Festival @Eagle Fire Company, New Hope, Pa. (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $20-$65 for beers poured by local breweries and entertainment and live music.)
Sat. 6/14 - Around the World Multi-Tap @Iron Hill, Newark, Del. (2 p.m.-5 p.m.; $PAYG for the opening of the World Cup with this multi-tap event, featuring a lineup of 8 beers and several food specials.)
Sat. 6/14 - Brews & Bites @Pennsbury Manor, Morrisville, Pa. (4 p.m.-8 p.m.; $10-$75 to wander the grounds and watch 17th century beer brewing demonstrations, take a walk through the gardens, tour the Manor House, or simply relax along the banks of the Delaware River. Food will be available to purchase.)

Sun. 6/15 - Pints for Pops @Victory Brewing Company, Downingtown, Pa. ($PAYG for special breakfast menu additions all morning and all dads will receive a free pint glass with the purchase of a .5L beer.)

Wed. 6/18 - Bella Vista Beer Night @The Trestle Inn, Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG for Dark Horse Brewing drafts coming from Bella Vista and j the audiophile spinning cool mixes.)

Thu. 6/19 - Beer Tasting (Southern Tier) @The Bottle Shop, Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beers from Southern Tier.)

Fri. 6/20 - Third Friday Firkin Fest @Sly Fox, Phoenixville, Pa. (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG to see which delicious brews will be on the hand pumps along side our year round Chester County Bitter.)
Fri. 6/20 - Friday Night Tasting (Lagunitas) @Exton Beverage, Exton, Pa. (4 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beers from Lagunitas.)
Fri. 6/20 - Beer Sampling (Ommegang) @Bottles Packs and Growlers, Philadelphia, Pa. (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beer from Ommegang.)
Fri. 6/20 - Party for One Simple Wish @River Horse Brewing Company, Ewing Township, NJ (7 p.m.-10 p.m.; $20 to benefit One Simple Wish, a Trenton based charity that focuses on assisting children in the foster care system.)

Sat. 6/21 - Harrisburg Brewers Fest @2nd & Locust Streets, Harrisburg, Pa. (12 p.m.-3:30 p.m. and 5 p.m.-8:30 p.m.; $10-$50 for beer samples from up to fifty participating breweries, a collector’s sampling mug, and entertainment from several bands. There will also be reasonably priced food concessions available.)
Sat. 6/21 - Saturday Sampling (Victory) @Exton Beverage, Exton, Pa. (1 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beers from Victory.)
Sat. 6/21 - Beer and Brewing 101 @Philly Beer School, Philadelphia, Pa. (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $39.98 for an introduction to how beer is made, major beer styles, and brewing history. Eight different brews will be sampled.)
Sat. 6/21 - Microfest @Stoudts Brewery, Adamstown, Pa. (6 p.m.-10 p.m.; $35-$40 for this long-running celebration of great beer.)

Tue. 6/24 - Summer Beer Dinner @Iron Hill, Lancaster, Pa. (6 p.m.; $65 for a five-course meal paired with Raspberry Wheat, Belgian Wit, Saison, Hopstinger, and Abbey Dubbel.)

Wed. 6/25 - Shiner Keep The Pint Night @Keg & Kitchen, Westmont, NJ (5 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG featuring White Wing on draft and $3.5 cans of Ruby Red Bird.)
Wed. 6/25 - Summer Beer Dinner @Iron Hill, Wilmington, Del. (7 p.m.; $75 for five-course meal paired with Belgian Witbier, Saison, Mahalo, Apollo!, The Dark Side, and Bumblebee Hefeweizen.)

Thu. 6/26 - NJ Craft Beer Party @Blend Bar & Bistro, Hamilton, NJ ($PAYG for an all-New Jersey tap takeover in honor of NJ's 350th anniversary.)

Fri. 6/27 - Beer Sampling (Sly Fox) @Bottles Packs and Growlers, Philadelphia, Pa. (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beer from Sly Fox.)
Fri. 6/27 - Rauch Bock Beer Release @Iron Hill, Maple Shade, NJ (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG for the release of this unique, dark Bavarian lager and a weekend menu featuring barbeque specials to pair with the smoky flavors of the beer.)

Sat. 6/28 - Lansdale Beer Tasting Festival @downtown Landsdale, Pa. (12 p.m.-4:30 p.m.; $10-$125 to sample some of the best regional and national craft beers accompanied by great food, great music, and great people.)
Sat. 6/28 - Garden State Brewers Festival @Battleship New Jersey, Camden, NJ (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $19.95-$55 to sample beer brewed in the State of New Jersey from 21 breweries. Food and live music by the Cabin Dogs.)

Mon. 6/30 - Beer Dinner @Two Stones Pub, Newark, Del. (6:30 p.m.; $TBA with more details to come.)

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I'm still writing a book

I'll begin by wishing you, in advance, a Happy Philly Beer Week.

And then excuse myself as the festivities roll on - without me this year.

As I mentioned back in April, I'm off on a wild trip of writing "Beer Lover's Mid-Atlantic". Really, it's been going on since February.

It's even got cover artwork and my name on it, so it must be real, right? (see Amazon for a picture, description, and for pre-sale too)

I've been somewhat surprised, I must admit, at how many still had no clue. I think that for as much as I've done to "socialize" it through the channels that are supposed to be more effective than "old school blogs", etc. (Facebook and Twitter postings along the way, photos, lots of photos, etc.), the message still isn't completely out there.

(Here are those links you should hit for Beer Lover's Mid-Atlantic on Facebook - and on Twitter)

I'll assure you that it's for real. Contract real. 5,194 driving miles to-date real. 240 visits for real across PA/NJ/DE/MD. From Erie to Eastern Shore, from Hoboken to Hagerstown, from Scranton to Solomons Island, and from Danville to Downingtown to Delmar.

For those on both sides of the bar that have been cooperative and helpful in terms of sharing information, tips, etc. it has been immensely helpful as I continue to crunch on this extremely aggressive timeline.

So I'll be in Hoboken, Jersey City, and other parts of northern New Jersey this weekend, continuing along the path of writing this book. Join me along the way…because, if you didn't know, now you know.

Cheers and enjoy Philly Beer Week!

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Weekly Beer Calendar Update: May 22 - May 31

And, just like that, summer is unofficially upon us. (as I'd mentioned before, for Philly Beer Week 2014 events - beginning on Friday, May 30, simply head to the official page for all the necessaries.)

Check out the entire May 2014 calendar over here. If I'm missing any that you feel should be on here, don't hesitate to let me know.


Tastings/Samplings/Freebies and Special One-offs or Debuts
@Exton Beverage, Exton, Pa.--- Fri. 5/23 - Sampling Night (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of Radler from Amstel.)

@High Street Grill, Mount Holly, NJ--- Thu. 5/22 - All-American Beer Garden (6:30 p.m.; $PAYG for plenty of pints, koozies, t-shirts, and more. Brews to look forward to include 312 by Goose Island and Headwaters by Victory.)

@Iron Hill, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Wed. 5/28 - Lex Luthor IPA Beer Release (5 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG for the release of this full-bodied triple IPA and a special chicken wing pairing.)


Brewery Promos and "Takeovers"
@Flying Fish, Somerdale, NJ--- Wednesdays in May - Barrel-aged Wednesdays (4 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG as we tap a new barrel-aged beer each Wednesday.)

@Holy Hound Taproom, York, Pa.--- Thu. 5/22 - Tröegs Tap Takeover (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG for a huge tap takeover featuring five different Scratch beers and other Tröegs favorites.)


Anniversaries/Parties, Festivals, and other noteworthy events
@hundreds of locations around Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 5/30 through Sun. 6/8 - Philly Beer Week (See website for full list of events and details.)

@63rd and Landis, Sea Isle City, NJ--- Sat. 5/31 - Craft Beer & Rock Festival (3 p.m.-7 p.m.; $35-$50 for over 100 beers to sample. Awards for best beer; you choose.)

@Hunger 'n' Thirst, Lancaster, Pa.--- Fri. 5/30 - One Year Anniversary Party (5 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG for special kegs starting on Friday, May 30th and continuing throughout the weekend.)

@Johnny Brenda's, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 5/29 - Liquor Before Beer (Week) with Art in the Age & Dock Street (7 p.m.; $PAYG for Dock Street brews on tap, Art in the Age cocktails…and the marriage of the both with featured beer cocktails.)

@Spninerstown Hotel, Spinnerstown, Pa.--- Fri. 5/30 through Sat. 6/7 - Spinny Beer Days (See website for all events and details of our Lehigh Valley version of Philly Beer Week.)


Food and Beer events
@Federal Taphouse, Lancaster, Pa.--- Fri. 5/23 through Sun. 5/25 - Memorial Day Weekend with Liquid Hero Brewery ($PAYG for a variety of Liquid Hero-focused events throughout the weekend including a $50 pairing dinner. See website for all the details.)

@Forest & Main, Ambler, Pa.--- Sun. 5/25 - Sunday Dinner (6 p.m.; $67 for an exclusive Sunday Dinner party in our private dining room. Enjoy special beers and amazing seasonal fare.)

@Iron Hill, Lancaster, Pa.--- Sat. 5/24 - Heroes and Villains (12 p.m.-5 p.m.; $PAYG for a pairing of 8 Legion of Doom IPA beers & 8 Justice League culinary creations.)

@Philly Beer School, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 5/24 - Beer and Cheese Pairing (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $56.98 for a class that combines the talent of one of Philadelphia’s top beer geeks and beloved cheesemongers for the ultimate class on beer and cheese pairings.)

@World Café Live, Wilmington, Del.--- Sat. 5/31 - Grilled Cheese and Craft Beer Tasting (3 p.m.; $35-$40 for two of the best things on earth paired together. Bring your vegetarian friends, too - we can accommodate them on all pairings.)


Homebrewing, Charity, Schooling, and Miscellanies
@Philly Beer School, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 5/30 - Belgian Beer Experience (7:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.; $48.98 to taste through the famous, and not-so-famous, beer styles of Belgium, including Strong Golden Ales, Wild Fermented Lambics, Monk brews, and more.)

@Victory Brewing Company, Parkesburg, Pa.--- Saturdays in May (ex. 5/3) - Parkesburg Brewery Tour (2 p.m.-6:30 p.m.; $58 for a chartered bus trip to the new Parkesburg brewery, including a behind the scenes look at the brewery, as well as a food and beer component.)

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Weekly Beer Calendar Update: May 15 - May 21

Safe to say that this Saturday the 17th will be a busy day. What are you doing? Don't just sit there.

Check out the entire May 2014 calendar over here. If I'm missing any that you feel should be on here, don't hesitate to let me know.


Tastings/Samplings/Freebies and Special One-offs or Debuts
@Beer Yard, Wayne, Pa.--- Fri. 5/16 - Friday Night Sampling (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beer from Susquehanna Brewing Company.)

@Exton Beverage, Exton, Pa.--- Fri. 5/16 - Sampling Night (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beer from Fegley's.)
@Exton Beverage, Exton, Pa.--- Sat. 5/17 - Sampling Night (1 p.m.-3 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beer from Straub.)

@Goshen Beverage, West Chester, Pa.--- Fri. 5/16 - Friday Night Samples (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beer from Kona Brewing.)

@Growlers, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 5/15 - Brooklyn Brewmaster's Reserve Launch Party of Ridgy-Didge (5 p.m.; $PAYG for the Philadelphia release of Ridgy-Didge from Brooklyn Brewery; a strong saison with a distinctly Australian edge.)

@Isaac Newton's, Newtown, Pa.--- Wed. 5/21 - Specialty Keg Tapping ($PAYG for DC Brau's On The Wings Of Armegaddon Imperial IPA.)

@Local 44 Bottle Shop, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Mon. 5/19 - Happy Hour (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG for Sly Fox's brewery representative led complimentary tastings and specials on bottle selections.)

@Pinocchio's, Media, Pa.--- Thu. 5/15 - Ship Bottom IPA Night (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $PAYG for beers from nearby Ship Bottom in Delaware County.)
@Pinocchio's, Media, Pa.--- Wed. 5/21 - Southern Tier IPA Night (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $PAYG for Gemini, 2x, Unearthly, Farmers Tan, and maybe one more.)

@The Bottle Shop, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 5/17 - Beer Tasting (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beers from Duck-Rabbit.)


Brewery Promos and "Takeovers"
@Barcade, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 5/17 - Heavy Seas White Oak Firkin Tapping (12 p.m.; $PAYG for an extremely rare white oak firkin with Heavy Seas Brewing.)

@Flying Fish, Somerdale, NJ--- Wednesdays in May - Barrel-aged Wednesdays (4 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG as we tap a new barrel-aged beer each Wednesday.)

@Grey Lodge, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 5/16 - SIPA = Sam India Pale Adams (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG for an American Beer Week celebration with Sam Adams IPAs: Rebel IPA, Rebel IPA (with something interesting through the randal), Rye Galaxy IPA, Tasman Red IPA, Third Voyage American Double IPA, and of course Sam Adams Lager. There will likely be some Sam Adams goodies too.)

@Isaac Newton's, Newtown, Pa.--- Thu. 5/15 - DuClaw Tap Takeover (7 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG for a list of rare and specialty DuClaw beers including Neon Gypsy IPA, Sweet Baby Jesus Chocolate Peanut Butter Porter, Bourbon Barrel-Aged Serum XXIPA, Hell on Wood Bourbon Barrel-Aged Barleywine, Cocoa Fuego Chocolate Chipotle Stout, Dirty Little Freak Coconut Caramel Chocolate Brown Ale, and Divine Retribution — a blend of the Retribution Imperial Stout and Misery Wheat-wine Ale.)

@Isaac's Pickle Bar, Lancaster, Pa.--- Fri. 5/16 - Deschutes Tap Takeover (5 p.m.; $PAYG as all taps will feature the brewery of the month, Deschutes Brewery.)

@Sly Fox, Phoenixville, Pa.--- Fri. 5/16 - Third Friday Firkin Fest (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG for a firkin of Oatmeal Stout to pour along side our year round Chester County Bitter.)

@The Trestle Inn, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Wed. 5/21 - Bella Vista Beer Night (8 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG for new drafts coming from Bella Vista and j the audiophile spinning cool mixes.)


Anniversaries/Parties, Festivals, and other noteworthy events
@Cottman and Frankford, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 5/17 - The Grey Lodge Beer Garden at the Mayfair May Fair (12 p.m.-4 p.m.; $PAYG for a tasty local microbrew to enjoy with the live music and other fun.)

@High Street Grill, Mount Holly, NJ--- Sat. 5/17 - All-American Beer Garden (2 p.m.-7 p.m.; $PAYG for American craft beers, a selection of wines and sodas, and gourmet BBQ food.)

@Iron Hill, Media, Pa.--- Sat. 5/17 - Brandywine Valley Craft Brewers’ Festival (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $5-$50 for 25 local breweries. Live music all day. Food prepared by Iron Hill Brewery. Proceeds to benefit Media youth center.)

@Kildare's, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 5/17 - Manayunk Craft Beer and Irish Whiskey Festival (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $15-$40 for unlimited samples of 40+ incredible craft beers and 10+ Irish Whiskeys along with music and food.)

@Sly Fox, Pottstown, Pa.--- Sat. 5/17 - Taps, Tunes, and Trucks (11 a.m.-6 p.m.; $PAYG to listen to live music and enjoy delicious award-winning beers while munching on creative curbside cuisine from six delicious food trucks at our Pottstown Tastin' Room. The Sly Fox Brewing Company Foxtrot 5k is at 10 a.m. before this event.)

@South Philadelphia Tap Room, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 5/17 - Wheat Beer Fest ($PAYG for a full day of music, classic backyard barbeque grub by Chef Scott, and over 30 wheat beers listed over at PhillyTapFinder.com.)

@The Gables at Chadds Ford, Chadds Ford, Pa.--- Sun. 5/18 - Chill The Firk Out (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $70 for ten firkins from ten excellent local breweries, live music by Mike Lorenz and Friendz, a sampling by Righteous Felon Jerky, and food provided by The Gables.)

@World Cafe Live, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Tue. 5/20 - Philly Beer Scene Awards (6 p.m.-10 p.m.; $50 for a very limited number of public tickets to help celebrate the best of the local brewing scene.)

@York Fairgrounds, York, Pa.--- Sat. 5/17 - Taste of Pennsylvania (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $10-$40 for a selection of the best breweries Pennsylvania has to offer with 60+ hand-selected brews in your souvenir pint glass while the band plays on.)


Food and Beer events
@Federal Taphouse, Harrisburg, Pa.--- Sat. 5/17 - Craft Beer & Seafood Bash (3:30 p.m.; $35 for different craft beers paired with seafood.)

@Hunger 'n' Thirst, Lancaster, Pa.--- Thu. 5/15 - Beer and Oysters (5 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG for three different varieties available by the half dozen and dozen.)

@Iron Hill, Voorhees, NJ--- Tue. 5/20 - BBQ Beer Dinner (7 p.m.; $65 for a five-course meal paired with Saison, Burton IPA, Bourbon Barrel Rising Sun, Rauchporter, and Abbey Dubbel.)

@Two Stones Pub, Kennett Square, Pa.--- Mon. 5/19 - Beer Dinner (6:30 p.m.; $TBA with more details to come.)


Homebrewing, Charity, Schooling, and Miscellanies
@Bulls Head Public House, Lititz, Pa.--- Mon. 5/19 - Beer School with Sixpoint (5:30 p.m.; $27.95 for a four-course meal paired with Sixpoint beers.)

@Local 44, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Wed. 5/21 - Beer School (5 p.m.; $PAYG to learn a little something about the beer we love to serve and where 100% of your Beer School donation goes directly to Share Our Strength.)

@Victory Brewing Company, Parkesburg, Pa.-- Saturdays in May (ex. 5/3) - Parkesburg Brewery Tour (2 p.m.-6:30 p.m.; $58 for a chartered bus trip to the new Parkesburg brewery, including a behind the scenes look at the brewery, as well as a food and beer component.)

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Weekly Beer Calendar Update: May 8 - May 14

A bit short on time this week, but long on the calendar. So, let's get straight to it.

Check out the entire May 2014 calendar over here. If I'm missing any that you feel should be on here, don't hesitate to let me know.


Tastings/Samplings/Freebies and Special One-offs or Debuts
@Beer Yard, Wayne, Pa.--- Fri. 5/9 - Friday Night Sampling (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beer from Fegley's Brew Works.)

@Exton Beverage, Exton, Pa.--- Fri. 5/9 - Sampling Night (3 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of Amstel Light and burgers.)
@Exton Beverage, Exton, Pa.--- Sat. 5/10 - Sampling Night (1 p.m.-4 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beer from Hop City, Spitfire, and Primus.)

@Goshen Beverage, West Chester, Pa.--- Fri. 5/9 - Friday Night Samples (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beer from Sierra Nevada.)

@Local 44 Bottle Shop, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Mon. 5/12 - Happy Hour (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG for Lancaster's brewery representative led complimentary tastings and specials on bottle selections.)

@Iron Hill, Lancaster, Pa.--- Sat. 5/10 - Diplomat Dunkel Beer Release (12 p.m.; $PAYG to celebrate Franklin & Marshall’s graduating class with the release of Diplomat Dunkel.)
@Iron Hill, Voorhees, NJ--- Sat. 5/10 - Kôkô Niu Stout Beer Release (1 p.m.-4 p.m.; $PAYG for the release of this English sweet stout aged with toasted coconut and chocolate.)

@The Bottle Shop, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 5/9 - Beer Tasting (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beers from Long Trail.)

@The Foodery (2nd Street), Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 5/10 - Crabbie's Tasting (12 p.m.-2 p.m.; $PAYG for complimentary Crabbie's tastings and free giveaway plus special drinks to order.)
@The Foodery (10th Street), Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 5/9 - Crabbie's Tasting (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG for complimentary Crabbie's tastings and free giveaway plus special drinks to order.)
@The Foodery (Roxborough), Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 5/9 - Crabbie's Tasting (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG for complimentary Crabbie's tastings and free giveaway plus special drinks to order.)


Brewery Promos and "Takeovers"
@Dad Vail Regatta, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 5/9 and Sat. 5/10 - Dad Vail Regatta Pale Ale with Sly Fox ($PAYG as Sly Fox is the exclusive beer feature and this year will introduce the Dad Vail Regatta Pale Ale; a low ABV American Pale Ale.)

@Flying Fish, Somerdale, NJ--- Wednesdays in May - Barrel-aged Wednesdays (4 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG as we tap a new barrel-aged beer each Wednesday.)

@Growlers, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 5/8 - Crabbie's Spiced Orange Ginger Beer Launch Party (5 p.m.; $PAYG for delicious cocktails using Crabbie's, or you can enjoy the beer on its own.)

@The Sidecar Bar, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Wed. 5/14 - High Gravity ($PAYG for a special event draft list found over at PhillyTapFinder.com.)

@Tröegs, Hershey, Pa.--- Wed. 5/14 - Full Moon Firkin (11 a.m.; $PAYG for a bartop firkin of fun.)

@Ulysses Gastropub, Wilmington, Del.--- Wed. 5/14 - B.W. Beer Works Tap Take Over (5 p.m.; $PAYG to taste the creations from this new brewery — Baltimore - Washington Beer Works/Raven Beer — making some great beers and paying homage to one of America's great authors and poets, Edgar Allen Poe.)

@Union Jack's on the Manatawny, Boyertown, Pa.--- Fri. 5/9 - The Other Farm & Frecon's Cidery Beer and Cider release party (7 p.m.; $PAYG for the releases of Renart's Tripel, Bahr Hill Estate, and Saisonner. Also featuring Frecon's Cidery, OFB's partner in fermentation, latest cider releases - Early Man and the famed Crabby Granny.)


Anniversaries/Parties, Festivals, and other noteworthy events
@five beer-centric locations around the far western suburbs of Philadelphia, Pa.--- Mon. 5/12 through Sat. 5/17 - Suburban Beer Week (See website for events, locations, and details.)

@along the Delaware River, Yardley, Pa.--- Sat. 5/10 - Yardley Beer Fest (12 p.m.-5 p.m.; $10-$65 for over 50 breweries and 100+ beers to sample. Music, food, and Homebrewers corner.)

@Blair County Ballpark, Altoona, Pa.--- Sat. 5/10 - Pints For Pets (1 p.m.-4 p.m. and 6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $10-$65 for over 50 breweries and 100+ beers to sample. Music, food, and Homebrewers corner.)

@Mount Hope Estate and Winery, Mount Hope, Pa.--- Sat. 5/10 - BrewFest (11 a.m.-3 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.; $20-$45 for a variety of different breweries from across the country, while enjoying live music and complimentary food.)


Food and Beer events
@Iron Hill, Phoenixville, Pa.--- Sun. 5/4 through Fri. 5/9 - Chef & Brewmaster Pairing Menu (5 p.m.-10 p.m.; $60 for three courses of food served with Honey Saison, Dortmunder, and Belgian Quadruple in conjunction with Phoenixville Restaurant Week.)
@Iron Hill, Wilmington, Del.--- Fri. 5/9 - Suds & Sliders (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG for a 4 oz sample of three of our handcrafted beers each paired with a slider.)

@Isaac's Pickle Bar, Lancaster, Pa.--- Sat. 5/10 - Saturday Brew Review (3 p.m.-5 p.m.; $25 for a four-course meal featuring Isaac's favorites paired with four brewmaster picks from Deschutes Brewery.)

@Johnny Brenda's, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 5/10 and Sun. 5/11 - Bocks & Brats ($PAYG for house-made bratwurst and soft pretzels and a special event tap list available over at PhillyTapFinder.com. On Sunday, Peggy and Simon, the dynamic 3-legged goat duo and winners of the last 3 Sly Fox goat races, will be in attendance.)

@The Continental, Atlantic City, NJ--- Fri. 5/9 - Dogfish Head Beer Pairings Dinner (7 p.m.; $65 for a four-course meal paired with Dogfish Head's Namaste, 60 Minute IPA, 75 Minute IPA, and 120 Minute IPA.)


Homebrewing, Charity, Schooling, and Miscellanies
@Keg & Kitchen, Westmont, NJ--- Mon. 5/12 - Beer School (6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.; $30 for Beer 107 showcasing old school beers where the recipes have been modernized and captured by craft breweries to allow you to enjoy some ancient beers now.)

@Penn Museum, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 5/8 - Cerveza! Celebrating the South American Tradition (6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.; $25-$30 as as Dr. Clark Erickson, American Section Curator-in-Charge, talks about south-of-the-border beer traditions and his recent research and collaboration with Dogfish Head Brewery to replicate traditional South American chicha beer, before inviting guests to sample beers representing the region.)

@Victory Brewing Company, Parkesburg, Pa.--- Saturdays in May (ex. 5/3) - Parkesburg Brewery Tour (2 p.m.-6:30 p.m.; $58 for a chartered bus trip to the new Parkesburg brewery, including a behind the scenes look at the brewery, as well as a food and beer component.)

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