DULUTH
BrewFest — Duluth: Brews & Tunes at Duluth Town Green
Those who keep hops and barley close to their hearts saddle up for some sampling. This beer-tasting event wrangles a slew of international craft beer labels from Allagash to Vermont Hard Cider Company. Those who play by the rules and keep their heads clear can indulge in unlimited samples. Want some pre-game food? Brats, pizza, tacos, ’cue and more will be for sale. An eclectic roster of bands perform throughout the day. Mercury Orkestar specializes in Balkan brass, Smokey’s Farmland Band serves up a helping of bluegrass, and the Atlanta-based Acorns plug in and rock. VIP tickets include a laundry list of perks such as appetizers and swag. It’s an age 21-and-older event, so start searching for a sitter. Designated drivers are free, and the festival offers a complimentary shuttle service to attendees needing a ride home within a 10-mile radius.
Noon. June 1. $35 advance; $45 at the gate. VIP: $85 advance; $100 at the gate. Duluth Town Green, 3578 W. Lawrenceville St., Duluth. 770-910-9101, www.beerfest-duluth.com.
MARIETTA
World Championship Series of “StarCraft II” at Battle & Brew
Fans of the military science fiction real-time strategy video game “StarCraft II” can land at this viewing party. It’s the World Championship Series (WCS) America Season 1 Premier League regional finals. Whew, what a mouthful! Guests can also get a mouthful of grub and libations as Battle & Brew streams the competition live. The staff will have the house PCs equipped so visitors can play for an hourly rate while they watch. Although the official start time has yet to be announced, Battle & Brew assumes the WCS will begin broadcasting at 6 p.m. The video game restaurant and bar, however, will be open from 11 a.m. until 2 a.m, so it should fall in there somewhere.
June 1. Free. Battle & Brew, 279 Powers Ferry Road, Marietta. 678-560-1500, www.battleandbrew.com.
NEWNAN
Pickin’ on the Square at Historic Downtown Newnan Courthouse Square
Jonesing to pick and grin? Everyone is invited to join this acoustic jam session. You don't have to be Bill Monroe or Bela Fleck to play. All musical styles and skill levels are welcome. Shy players or music fans can simply watch and listen to the musicians gathering for Pickin' on the Square. And everyone can hoot and holler as the tunage flows. Make an afternoon out of it, and plan an after-show lunch at one of Newnan's downtown eateries.
11 a.m. June 1 and 15. Free. Historic Downtown Newnan Courthouse Square, Corner of North Court Square and West Court Square, Newnan. 770-253-8283.
