Well folks, it’s that time of year again … BREW FEST! That’s right, the third annual New Mexico Brew Fest and Music Showcase is happening this Saturday starting at 1 p.m.

This event has grown each year since its inception, and this year is no different as it will feature tasting booths from breweries all over New Mexico. The good folks from some of our seasoned microbreweries such as La Cumbre, Marble and Santa Fe Brewing (to name just a few) will be in attendance, as well as fresh blood from some newcomers to the New Mexico microbrewery scene like the guys from Broken Bottle Brewery.

Not enough, you say? Well, the Whole Foods Beer Village will have plenty of bratwurst, and more tastings from regional favorites Ska, Left Hand, Stone, New Belgium, Deschutes, and Odell. Did I mention there will be bratwurst? Just making sure. There’s plenty of fun to be had this year. There will also be live music from such performers as Anthony Leon & The Chain, Crazy Fool, and underground country legend Billy Joe Shaver. Need some munchies to wash down those delicious brews? There will be food available from some of Albuquerque’s great food trucks to fill those bellies. Tickets are available online at http://www.NMbrewfest.com or at the door on Saturday, though you can save yourself some money by getting them in advance. Doors open at noon for VIP ticket holders (enjoy those small-batch tastings, folks!), and at 1 p.m. for general admission. The festivities go until 6 p.m. There are also discount tickets for your designated driver who wants to simply soak up the atmosphere, and the Trek Bike Valet will provide a safe area for you cyclists to lock up your bikes.

This year’s installment of the New Mexico Brew Fest & Music Showcase is promising to be a great time, so make sure to get out to the Villa Hispana at Expo New Mexico this Saturday and taste some delicious beers from around the state and beyond. And make sure to say hello to yours truly if you see me around the fest!

Prost!

— Brandon “Cryptogrind”