Spring is in the air, which means it's time to get out and enjoy the last blessed months of sunshine and low humidity before Miami turns back into a tropical rainforest.
Next week, Coconut Grove hosts two events, both in Peacock Park. One celebrates all things beer, while the other is about the art of the grill. Tony Albelo of Swarm (which produces both events) talked us through both Sprung, the annual celebration of spring break, and the new Grillin' in the Grove, an ode to all things fired up.
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Albelo says Sprung will highlight local breweries." This year, it's about the new breweries in Miami. Biscayne Bay Brewing will really have its first major introduction to the public at Sprung. Descarja Brewing will be there, which is a brand new brewery that most people haven't even heard of yet.
Of course, there are still lots of lawn games like giant Jenga, Twister, and human bowling. Albelo wants to keep beer fun and social and avoid the snobbery that some people associate with the craft brew scene. "Listen, beer is beer. While I really like that people are taking the art of brewing seriously, in the end, drinking beer with your friends is social and we want to keep it that way. Sprung is all about the funner — is that even a word — side of beer."
Albelo says to look out for fruit beers and ciders this season. "When we started Grovetoberfest, we only had one or two good ciders. Now, there are ten or 12 really quality ones. I actually, really like ciders. I almost don't want to admit it, but nothing beats a cider over ice. It's so refreshing."
Sprung takes over Coconut Grove's Peacock Park on Saturday March 7 from 4 - 7 p.m. Tickets start at $40 for general admission. $70 gets you early 3 p.m. entry and a swag bag; $90 VIP gets you 2:30 p.m. entry and access to the VIP lounge and air-conditioned bathrooms. Purchase tickets at igotsprung.com or call 305-461-2700.
Grillin in the Grove puts the best barbecue techniques in the world together in one park. According to Albelo, this one is all about enjoying a day out with the family. "You'll be able to try Kansas, Carolina, Texas, Argentine, and Brazilian styles of barbecue." Around 20 different grillers and restaurants will be there, along with a pop-up sports bar.
The price is also family-friendly, with a family pack that includes two adult tickets (children under 12 are free) for $25. Food and drink are sold separately.
Grillin in the Grove happens Sunday, March 8 at Peacock Park from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door. The VIP barbecue experience is $65 and includes a private entrance, access to the VIP bar, and complimentary unlimited beer and food from Pincho Factory. Tickets are available online at grillininthegrove.com or at the park.
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