[Columbia, SC] - Zoos may be havens for kids of all ages, but after hours they also make great party spots for adults. Spurred on by the growing popularity of Riverbanks' wine tasting, the Zoo is introducing an outdoor sampling event this weekend.

"Riverbanks is extremely excited about the premier of Brew at the Zoo. This is not your average beer tasting, its one-of-a-kind. Not only will our guest get the opportunity to listen to live music, informative discussions with a Brewmaster and sample an assortment of beer, they can explore the Zoo after hours," said Riverbanks Zoo and Garden Executive Director Satch Krantz.

Beer stations will be set up throughout the Zoo and ticket holders will love the live music by The South, a country-rock band that originated in Lexington, S.C. in 2004 that has since made waves with its debut album Monsters in the Kudzu. Lead vocalist Chris Conner and female vocalist Nicole Hagenmeyer deliver a brand of country that's half bluegrass, half southern rock and all soul.

Whether guests come for the music or the beer, they'll be able to sample different microbrews and specialty domestics and imports along with the Anheuser-Busch family of beers. All ticket holders receive a 4 oz. glass for taste testing. In addition to sampling beer, food stations will be set up around the Zoo offering guest the chance to purchase a wide variety of beer flavored food and various appetizers and desserts.

An Anheuser-Busch Brewmaster, Stephanie Crum, will be making an appearance during the event, giving guests a chance to get out of the heat and listen to a lecture on beer making. For self-taught beer masters who'd like to start their day a little earlier, Riverbanks Botanical Garden will be offering a beer making class from 10:00am to noon. Horticulturist Chris Spearen will discuss growing and cultivating hops, the variety of plants that go into making different kinds of beer, and the steps to brewing your own beer at home. The class is $15 for members and $21 for the general public.

Brew at the Zoo kicks off at 7:00pm on Saturday, August 5. Tickets to Brew at the Zoo are $25 for Riverbanks Society members and $30 for the general public. $15 designated driver tickets are available; however, designated drivers must still be over 21 years old. No one under 21 will be admitted. For the time being, tickets are still on sale and can be purchased in advance by calling 803.779.8717 or by visiting www.riverbanks.org or you can purchase your ticket at the gate.

For guests who have one beer too many, up to $10 in cab fair will be provided by Budweiser of Columbia, assuming guests travel to a private residence or hotel. And for beer lovers who'd like to guarantee a good time, Embassy Suites is providing a Brew at the Zoo package that includes two tickets, a hotel suite, a complimentary manager's reception, transportation back and forth from the event and a Sunday morning breakfast for $179.