Beer, beer, and more beer!
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Every year, Labor Day weekend in Atlanta is jam-packed with events, and this year was no different. From Dragon*Con to black gay pride events, the city was busy. With all of this going on, my favorite event after the long weekend was the Great Atlanta Beer Fest at Turner Field. While the non-stop beer would be good enough to solidify its top spot in my weekend, there was much more to enjoy.
Despite the rainy afternoon prior to the festival, skies were clear and sunny by the 3:00pm start time. Upon entering the grand entry plaza outside of the stadium, I was greeted with live music from the band, Ocean Street. They provided the crowd with great covers, ranging from Dave Matthews band to Kings of Leon. The leader of the band summed up the atmosphere best, saying that it felt “…like a big backyard party.” College football played on big screens and televisions throughout the plaza as food was eaten, games were played, and beers were sampled… And oh, were beers sampled!
With a selection of over 140 beers, to this beer festival novice, it felt like the World of Coca Cola for adults! As I have been actively refining my beer palate for only 2 years or so, I would not classify myself as a beer connoisseur. Either way, here are some of my favorites. Sierra Nevada’s Torpedo and Leinenkugel’s Big Eddy will definitely be making appearances at future get-togethers, while my personal favorite and new staple in my refrigerator was Your Black Heart from the local O’Dempsey’s Brewery. To top it all off, there were some pleasant surprises at the Frozen Pints booth with their delicious beer ice creams!
All-in-all, the Great Atlanta Beer Fest was a wonderful experience, with wonderful people all around. I’m looking forward to more great times exploring the wonderful world of beer next Labor Day!
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~EDB
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