California Beer Festival - Aptos

As the warm weather (and rain) hits the central coast it's the signal that the season for beer festivals has begun.  This year my intention is to attend all the beer related events occurring in my neck of the woods, that is the Santa Cruz, Monterey bay area.

First up, the California Beer Festival. This event is the biggie for me because it's happening just a few short miles away from me in Aptos. For those that have been following Beer Diary... for awhile, you know that I've moved to nearby Capitola from Aptos a couple of years ago, so to attend a beer fest in Aptos would be like going home for me. Going home for beer that is.
According to the CBF website:

...With over 60 craft brews on tap, four live bands, mouth watering food and bocce ball. CBF will be the event of the year for any beer enthusiast! CBF's main goal is to shine a light on the craft beer movement and celebrate great beer!
For one low price, you will receive a souvenir tasting cup to sample some of the best craft beers from around the state, play bocce ball and listen to amazing music. This event will sell out, space is very limited. Purchase your tickets today to ensure a great time!

I'm not sure about the bocce ball, but for the rest, sign me up.

This year has a great line up including the usual heavy hitters like Anchor Steam, Gordon Biersch and Lagunitas, but what I'm looking forward to are the Irish beers of Strangford Lough Brewing Company and Ninkasi Brewing Co. who have some beers that I haven't seen in these parts.
The other fun thing for me is to be able to say hello and to support my local brewers like Jason at Seabright Brewing, Alec at Uncommon Brewers, Mark at Ale Works and Chad at Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing.

What about the music? How about the soulful dance beat of Santa Cruz's own Extra Large band to keep the energy up as you sample your way to beer heaven.

The Aptos park is an excellent location for an event like this, with a pristine creek running past a large open lawn area shaded by oaks and redwoods. The perfect place to chat with friend about your latest beer sample. What could be a better way to kick off the beer festival season.

Let us know if you'll be attending.