Key West The Newspaper

More thirst-quenching Key West BrewFest on tap for Labor Day weekend

In its sixth year, Key West BrewFest expands to three dozen events over six days including the Signature Tasting Festival featuring nearly 200 beers and a second-line parade to the after-party. Originated in 2010 by Key West Sunrise Rotary and the Southernmost Beach Resort, Key West BrewFest has raised more than $150,000 for college scholarships and charitable causes.

Brewfest 2015 kicks off on Wednesday, Sept. 2, with a party at Waterfront Brewery, dinner at Isle Cook and, at Island Dogs, limited release drafts.

Daily elbow-bending events Sept. 3-7 include beer breakfasts at Camille’s Restaurant and cigar-beer pairings at Green Street Cigar Company.

Thursday events include a beer run where participants drink beer at Waterfront Brewery, run (or walk) to The Porch, drink a beer, and then run back for the grand finale chug. The Krawl off Duval is another option along with a dance party at Sloppy Joe’s and beer dinners at 2 Cents and Bagatelle.

Friday brings pool parties at Southernmost Beach Resort and the Marker Waterfront Resort, steins and stogies at Smokin’ Tuna, craft beer tasting at Sunset Pier, and dinners at Southernmost Beach Café and Charlie Mac’s.

Saturday morning begins with beer brunches at Square One and Hot Tin Roof as warm ups for the big event. The Signature Tasting Festival, at the Southernmost Beach Café, 1405 Duval, showcases nearly 200 beers. Gates open at 3 p.m. for VIPs, 5 p.m. for general admission. Tickets are $35 in advance at keystix.com or $40 at the door for the 5-8 p.m. tasting. VIPs pay $75 for the privilege of starting two hours earlier with complimentary hors d’oeuvres served, and BrewFest memorabilia to take home. Designated driver tickets include unlimited water, soda or tea and one complimentary meal. No one under 21 will be admitted and pets are not allowed.

New this year is a New Orleans’ style second line. When the Signature Tasting Festival wraps, participants can join the second line march following jazz/funk band Water Seed to the Green Parrot to continue the merriment. There’s also a late-night party at The Porch.

For a little “hair of the dog,” The Café, 2 Cents and Hot Tin Roof plan beer brunches on Sunday. The party goes all day at poolside at The Gates Hotel Rum Row. Rick’s Bar presents The Last Flight Out and the Southernmost Beach Café hosts the Sam Adams Beer Dinner.

Labor Day brings the final beer dinner at Roostica and bingo at the Green Parrot.

For a full schedule of events, list of beers, pricing and reservation information, visit keywestbrewfest.com. Tickets are limited for each event.