Free Refills

One way to cool down on a hot July night is to quench one’s thirst in a really big way: by sampling, in one evening, a large number of wines and beers produced in Kansas and Missouri. That’s the concept behind the American Royal’s second-annual Wine & Brew Ha-Ha, held from 5 to 9 p.m. at Hale Arena (1701 American Royal Court). For a $25 ticket ($20 in advance) — proceeds benefit the American Royal and Youth Education — patrons (who must be at least 21 years old, of course) receive a commemorative glass to be filled by representatives from a wide variety of regional breweries and vineyards, including Boulevard Brewery and the Somerset Ridge Winery. With more than 150 products to sample, it sounds like a wildly intoxicating time, especially because the only food available at the event will be sold by the licensed barbecue vendor in the exhibition space. But after a few dozen “samplings,” even a brisket sandwich may look like haute cuisine. See americanroyal.com.

Sat., July 11, 2009