You can?t feed the bears, but you can drink with them at the 2007 Brew at the Zoo … and Wine Too, an annual fundraiser held by the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore.
“It?s been a successful event; every year we look to see if there is anything we can do differently,” said Zoo Public Relations Manager Lainie Contreras. “And every year it turns out better and better.”
This year, the zoo is offering a cheese-eating contest, caricature drawing and a silent auction at the event. More than 15 regional breweries and wineries are participating. Money raised from the event will go toward the zoo?s programs.
“It?s a great opportunity to sample some local breweries and wineries, all in one place,” Contreras said. “It?s also a great way to get outdoors and enjoy the nice spring weather, and have a good time with your friends. It?s also a wonderful and fun way to support the zoo as well.”
Pennsylvania-based Victory Brewing Company has been participating in Brew at the zoo since its inception in 2002. “The reason we participate is because we enjoy helping organizations with their fundraising efforts,” said Victory?s Communications Coordinator Jacob Burns. “And we get to meet a lot of new people as well.”
For those who haven?t tried Victory?s brews, Burns recommends the HopDevil IPA. “It?s a myriad of flavors. It has a strong hop flavor as well as a malty character,” he said. “It?s a well-balanced beer that people enjoy.”
Hugh Sisson, owner of Clipper City Brewing Company, said that they have been a part of Brew at the Zoo for the last five years.
“We?re a local brewery, and we take pride in participating in the community,” he said.
Sisson recommends the Balto MarzHON, because of its milder style and broad appeal. Clipper City?s Pamela McDowell will be handing out samples at the event on Saturday. “[Brew at the Zoo] raises money for the zoo, and everyone really enjoys it,” she said. “We want to support them as much as we can. It?s also a good chance for people to get out and try local beers that they always wanted to try but never had the chance to.”
If you go
Brew at the Zoo … And Wine Too!
» Where: Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, Druid Hill Park, Baltimore
» When: 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday
» Tickets: $18 in advance, $20 day of, $5 for children and designated drivers
» More info: www.marylandzoo.org
