Sushi 101 Dinner & Demo Sushi chef Triet Huynh presents a hands-on sushi preparation class followed by a multicourse dinner. Reserve by phone. Fri., Aug. 23, 6:30pm. Finn & Porter, 500 E. Fourth, 512/493-4900. $70.

› ‘Bacon Nation’ Cooking Class Recipe developer Marie Rama, co-author of Bacon Nation, teaches recipes from the book. Reserve by phone; price of class includes signed copy of book. Fri., Aug. 23, 6:30-9pm. Central Market North Cooking School, 4001 N. Lamar, 512/206-1014. $65.

› The Annual Grape Stomp Enjoy tours, tastings, food and craft vendors, and live music all day. You can also stomp some grapes and leave footprints on a souvenir T-shirt. Sat.-Sun., Aug. 24-25, Aug. 31-Sept. 1. Becker Vineyards, 464 Becker Farms Rd., Stonewall, 800/946-9463.

› Hot Sauce Festival Book Signing & Frozen Cocktail Hour Get your palate prepped for Sunday’s Hot Sauce Festival with cooling drinks and a bevy of authors – including Robb Walsh, Randy Clemens, and David Garrido – signing their latest works that cover the spicy side of things edible. Sat., Aug. 24, 5:30pm. Garrido’s, 360 Nueces, 512/320-8226. Free. www.facebook.com/events/551653511536504.

• Too Cool for School Fiesta KISS-FM hosts a Sunday Funday where guests can compete for prizes by showing off their coolest shades or college ID. Enjoy El Jimador Tequila cocktails at happy hour prices and a free queso bar. Sun., Aug. 25, 3-7pm. Santa Rita Tex Mex Cantina, 1206 W. 38th, 512/419-7482.

› Anniversary Brewer’s Dinner Chef George Powell and brewer Kevin Roark will create a five-course dinner paired with some of their finest craft beers. Dinner includes a tour of the brewery and a souvenir pint glass. Reserve by phone. Wed., Aug. 28, 7pm. North by Northwest Restaurant & Brewery, 10010 Capital of TX Hwy. N., 512/467-6969. $49.

› Russian House Vodka Fest Experience vodka with the people who know it best and boast one of the largest selections of vodkas in town. Tastings, infusions, appetizers, and DJ music. Tickets online. Thu., Aug. 29, 7-11pm. Russian House, 307 E. Fifth, 512/428-5442. $15 ($100, VIP). www.vodkafest.eventbrite.com.

This article appears in August 23 • 2013.

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