by Meaghan Paulosky
As part of Philly Beer Week, the International Great Beer Expo: Philadelphia is coming back for a sixth year next Saturday, May 31st. The Expo is part of a larger, multi-state series that already stopped in Seacaucus and will hit Long Island this November, but, as per the usual, the Philadelphia edition is the largest and loudest. With over 75 breweries from 25 countries, the Navy Yard will be filled from 1:30 to 5:00 pm with nearly 200 different beers for you to enjoy.
(photo credit, Karl Mischler)
Beer connoisseurs and newbies alike will have the chance to sample local and domestic names, such as Conshohocken Brewing Company and Goose Island, as well as, international breweries including Hoegaarden and Boddingtons. Though, for those with a more serious palate, VIP tickets can be purchased for early admission to sample exclusive beers. Ever tried the Monster Mash Imperial Stout from Boaks or perhaps the Voodoo Doughnut Pretzel, Raspberry & Chocolate Ale from Rogue Ales?
To broaden your beer-flavored horizons, the Expo also features afternoon seminars to clear up any food-related confusion. At 2:00, Maryann Reis from 2 Chicks With Chocolate will ponder the curious relationship between chocolate and beer. Then at 3:30, Jersey’s own Punjabi Popcorn will demystify the age-old uncertainty behind popcorn-beer pairings.
But in case chocolate and popcorn aren’t your most favorite drinking foods, Expo organizers paired up with the Philly Food Truck Association to bring you a variety of street food favorites. Trucks include The Cow and the Curd, The Tot Cart, and Reuben on Rye, among others.
Though not on wheels, food can be had and discussed by exhibitors The Jerky Hut, Drink Philly, Philly Beer Scene, and Knotty Pretzel, to name a few. Even special guests Eagles tight end Brent Celek and Unibroue Brewmaster Jerry Vietz will be available to promote the undeniable importance of food and beer.
The whole event is generously raising money for Philadelphia’s Committee to Benefit the Children, which works around the city to care for children afflicted with cancer and blood disorders. So if don’t drink for yourself, do it for the kids.
VIP, General Admission, and Designated Driver tickets are still available at http://www.greatbeerexpo.com/philly/ and can be purchased at the event (in cash) until capacity is reached. Remember to bring your ID, drink responsibly, and have fun!
