The 2004 Texas Craft Brewers Festival

This Saturday, May 15, Austin will be the host for the 2004 Texas Craft Brewers Festival. Last year, about 2,000 beer lovers turned out to taste more than 40 different beers at the first festival. This year looks like it will be even bigger and better. More breweries have signed up, including several Austin favorites. Also, several expert brewers will lead groups though guided tastings, helping you learn about the subtleties of beer flavors.

One of the most exciting events will be the Texas Culinary Academy Food & Beer Pairing Class, in which the chefs from the academy will teach you which beers go best with which foods. If you are more of a do-it-yourselfer, the festival will also have a pairing with five beers and a plate full of food from various local restaurants so you can taste and make up your own mind.

Home brewers will get the chance to have judges evaluate their beers and maybe pick up a ribbon for their efforts. Of course, it wouldn't be Austin without music, and there will be a bandstand with good music all day.

Admission is $10, which gives you five beer tokens (more are available). The event goes from noon until 10pm at Republic Square Park at Fourth and San Antonio. See www.txbrewersfestival.com for more information.