Music and drinks have long been enjoyed together, from turn-of-the-century gentlemen sipping scotch around the Victrola to modern gentlemen sipping scotch around the Victrola in a 3-D holographic recreation chamber. Some things never change with this deal.

The Deal

Admission to Top of the Hops Beer Festival

When: Saturday, August 10, at 4 p.m.

Where: The Marina Lawn at The Wharf

Door time: 4 p.m.

Ticket values include all fees.<p>

Admission Options

$20 for a general-admission package for one (up to a $39.35 value)

Commemorative 2-ounce sampling mug

Unlimited 2-ounce samples

$41 for a VIP package for one (up to an $81.80 value)

Commemorative 2-ounce sampling mug

Unlimited 2-ounce samples

Entry one hour early with exclusive beer-tasting experience

Access to the VIP lounge

Private beer tastings not available to general-admission holders

Complimentary food from 4 p.m.–7 p.m.<p>

Designated drivers can regularly purchase general-admission tickets for $17.90, including fees.<p>

Top of the Hops Beer Festival

The people of Abita Brewing Company like to share their love of beer. By presenting the second annual Top of the Hops festival, they’re introducing the area to more than 150 craft brews from across the globe. On tap are titans of the industry including Blue Moon, Samuel Adams, and Shiner, alongside lesser-known and local brewers such as Back Forty Beer Co. and Good People. But the love of beer extends beyond each mouthful. The Samuel Adams Brew University Education Area ensures attendees enjoy the various complexities of their favorite suds by focusing on cooking with beer, brewing, and food pairing.<p>

All the while, activities pair with every sip. Corn-hole helps to define the laid-back atmosphere at the fest and distract players whose hands have become fused to their sampling mug. Meanwhile, Gulf Shores’ own Jay Williams Band stirs up a soundtrack of classic blues mixed with Southern rock in a breezy music set worth toasting.