[Columbia, SC] - Mark your calendar for Saturday, August 4, for what is sure to be the coolest event in town. For the second straight year, Riverbanks Zoo and Garden opens its gates after hours during the dog days of summer for a beer bonanza, complete with a variety of local and regional microbrews along with specialty domestics and imports.

“Brew at the Zoo is an after hours event geared toward young professionals that is just plain fun,” said Satch Krantz, executive director of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. “Events like this are a great way to introduce a new crowd to the Zoo.”

Stations will be set up around the Zoo offering a variety of specialty, import and domestic beers. All ticket holders will receive a 4-ounce tasting glass upon entering the main gate. From 7:00 to 9:30pm guests can meander through the Zoo, sample brew and enjoy live entertainment. In addition to sampling beer, food stations will be set up offering guests the chance to purchase a wide variety of appetizers and desserts.

This year guests will enjoy live music featuring The Caribbean Cowboys, the “official” band of the Western North Carolina Parrot Head Club. The Jimmy Buffet-style band will play a wide variety of tunes from Jimmy Buffet originals to classic rock, rhythm and blues and beach music.

Microbrew masters will be on-hand to answer questions about home brewing, the brewing process and different brew styles. Beer will be provided by local and regional vendors and will be available to purchase at local supplier stores.

Tickets go on sale Friday, June 1, and admission is $25 for Riverbanks members and $35 for the general public. Designated driver tickets are available for $15; however designated drivers must be over 21 years old. All guests must present proper identification upon entering the event. Tickets can be purchased in advance online at www.riverbanks.org, by phone at (803) 779-8717 or at the Zoo or Garden entrance.

For beer lovers who would like to guarantee a good time, Embassy Suites Hotel of Columbia is offering an overnight “Brew at the Zoo” package that includes two tickets, a hotel suite and transportation to and from the event. Please call (803) 252-8700 for details.