October is such an awesome month. We sweat less and our hair doesn't get as frizzy, there are a ton of beer-guzzling Oktoberfest events, and it ends wth Halloween. One other reason that Miamians look forward to October is the annual Grovetoberfest event in Coconut Grove.
Now in its third year, Grovetoberfest is the largest beer festival in Florida and it takes place this Saturday. Expect over 250 craft beers from around the world, including plenty of local brews.
Beer lovers can sample the plethora of beers and vote on their favorite for Domestic, Import, and Wild Card, as well as become suds savants by taking part in Brew FIU's Beer Tasting 101 and the Milam's Kitchen Lab, hosted by local chefs such as Giorgio Rapicavoli of Eating House; Michael Jacobs, the official chef for the Miami Heat; and OTC's new chef, Jacob Anaya; who will be demonstrating beer pairings and performing cooking demonstrations all day.
The event also features live music, a Bimini VIP Lounge, and a contest for local homebrewers.
Enter your homebrew in Miami's Best Homebrew Contest and have representatives from South Florida breweries judge your sudsy skills. The winner's brew will be featured at a local restaurant.
The Beer Tasting 101 workshop will be manned by Matthew Weintraub, professor and president of the FIU Brew Club. He'll go over the history of beer and beer making, and follow up with a beer tasting. The workshop lasts twenty minutes and will take place several times throughout the day.
Of course, there will be food, but you'll have to pay for it unless you purchase VIP tickets. VIP guests receive early admission, private bathrooms, an open bar, free food, and a commemorative Grovertoberfest glass.
Worried about driving after drinking so much beer? Don't fret - use Safe Ride Home. Grovertoberfest is providing free shuttle service between the event and the Metro Rail's Coconut Grove Station.
The event takes place at Peacock Park this Saturday. General admission tickets cost $40 in advance and $45 at the gate. The Beer Socialite Package cost $70 and VIP tickets run $90. Visit grovetobefest.com or call 305-461-2700.
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