Bring on bar patios and outdoor parties, it's springtime in Texas. Enjoying the brief window of temperate weather between winter and summer is like a local tradition. Here are 10 upcoming events where you can do that with a cold beverage in hand.
Meddlesome Moth anniversary celebration series (three April dates)
The Meddlesome Moth has been a local beer institution for going on five years, and the restaurant's owners sure know how to throw a party. In 2015, the Moth is hosting a series of beer pairings featuring some of the buzziest craft breweries in the country. On April 4, there's a beer breakfast with Jester King Brewery; on April 22, expect a Dogfish Head Craft Brewery beer dinner; and on April 26, there's a Prairie Artisan Ales beer supper. Brewers from each one will be in town for the events. More deets.
Big Texas Beer Fest (April 11)
This Dallas original returns to Fair Park for another year of craft beer and local tunes. More than 120 breweries from around the country will be represented by close to 400 beers, including rare one-offs and solid year-rounds. Fewer tickets are being sold for the 2015 event, which means smaller crowds. Tickets cost $42 for general admission and $70 for VIP after fees. More deets.
Drink-centric festivals on West 7th (dates in April and May)
Fort Worth's West 7th District is bringing the party to the streets with a series of festivals this spring and summer. Two of note: Brewfest on Crockett (April 18), featuring eight American microbreweries, and Bites & Flights (May 3), a sample stroll featuring nibbles and complimenting beverages. See the full lineup here.
Small Brewpub Block Party (April 18)
Oak Cliff's newest brewery is hosting an all-day music and beer event in its soon-to-be-developed backyard space. Bands include Langhorn Slim & the Law, Quiet Company, Fox and the Bird, and Christian Lee Hutson. Tickets cost $15 including fees in advance. Eats from a special menu and drinks will be available for purchase. More deets.
Vodka Infusion Dinner (April 21)
Whiskey Cake in Plano is hosting a five-course dinner paired with five different vodka infusions, created from Cinco Vodka. There are some pretty wacky drink flavors, like a cocoa nib-infused and three chili-infused vodka. Tickets cost $65 and reservations are required. See the full menu here.
History with a Twist (April 25)
Enjoy classic cocktails, courtesy of local bar man Brian McCullough, at the quaint Dallas Heritage Village. This is a 1920s-themed soiree with retro tunes from local jazz band Singapore Slingers, a silent movie and dance lessons. Prohibition-era attire is encouraged. More deets.
Brew Mile (May 1)
Avid runners and avid hopheads come together at Fair Park for a one-mile run with four different beer-chugging stations. I know it sounds hard, but participants shall be rewarded with an open bar for three hours after the event. Tickets cost $65. More deets.
Untapped Festival Fort Worth (May 9)
This homegrown fest brings more than 80 craft breweries to Panther Island Pavilion for a day of beer sampling. It's also an indie music festival, featuring headliners De La Soul, Ariel Pink and The Sword, among other performers. See the list of participating breweries here and stay tuned for the beer list in the coming weeks.
Main Street Days Craft Brew Experience (May 15)
This third-year mini festival is part of Main Street Days in Grapevine, which recently began embracing craft beer. Brews from 20 nationwide and local breweries will be available for sampling. Tickets cost $14 in addition to the entry fee for Main Street Days. More deets.
Brew Riot (May 17)
If you're looking for an adventure in taste, Brew Riot in Oak Cliff is your best bet. The event features local home brewers and home brew clubs that bring their most inventive flavors to the fest. There's also a 1.1-mile run with four beer chugging stations, so you don't have to feel guilty about sampling all day. More deets.
