Harbor Island International Beer Fest

The Harbor Island International Beer Fest could almost double as a UN summit. Nearly 150 breweries plan to attend the event, representing nations such as Belgium, Germany, England, Czechoslovakia, and Italy. Throughout the afternoon, festivalgoers get the opportunity to try samples—including exclusive beers made just for the event—from renowned breweries like Dogfish Head, Founders Brewing Company, and Unibroue. With the Long Island Sound as a backdrop, visitors can stop to raise the occasional toast as they explore the grounds and receive samples from the flowing taps.

The five-hour celebration won't be limited to tastings, though. Live bands will perform for the crowds and the event schedule includes seminars and presentations on professional brewing techniques. At a separate marketplace area, visitors can check out home-brewing equipment and watch demos, though none this year cover the fine art of drinking beer from a beer helmet. And when it comes to feeding the crowds, local and regional restaurants also bring their A-game with everything from barbecue to chocolate truffles.