Best Brews

The Beer Institute ranked the state of Missouri 17th in the country for beer consumption last year, based on 4.3 million people over the age of 21 who consume approximately 32.5 gallons per person per year. Keep that number in mind during the seventh-annual Parkville Microbrew Festival, when 32 breweries from Kansas, Missouri, Iowa and Nebraska set up at English Landing Park (First Street and Main). For $20, get a glass, tasting notes, and samples from such breweries as Empyrean Brewing Co. (Nebraska’s largest microbrewery), Des Moines’ Court Avenue Brewing Company, or local favorite Free State Brewery, among others. Pay only if you want to drink at this family- and pet-friendly event. Food vendors, live entertainment and local merchants will be on hand, rain or shine. The event is hosted by the Main Street Parkville Association and goes from 1 to 5 p.m. Call 816-505-2227 or see parkvillemo.org/microbrewfest.htm for more information.

Sat., April 24, 1-5 p.m., 2010