Participate in the zoo's biggest fundraising event of the year.

As one of the busiest travel times of the year, Memorial Day weekend is the perfect time to kick back with a good drink and enjoy the sunshine. The word "vacation" brings to mind images of swanky resorts or getaways, but if traveling isn't your thing, the Maryland Zoo is bringing a rollicking event to the DMV area with "Brew at the Zoo."

Brew at the Zoo is the Maryland Zoo's biggest fundraising event of the year, as well as one of the largest beer festivals in Baltimore. You can tap into more than 80 different beers from national and local breweries -- the commemorative drinking glass that comes with your ticket is good for unlimited samples, so go wild (but not too wild).

For the Super Sippers with VIP tickets, you get an XL16 oz. commemorative mug, as well as express entry into the event and early admission. These tickets tend to sell out the fastest, so go on over and secure them here before they run out.

Courtesy of the Maryland Zoo

Peruse the food vendors and local artisans on display, or watch live music while you sip to your heart's content. Three performances total will round out each day of the event (keep your eyes peeled for the lineup announcement on March 7). Your ticket also includes all-day admission to the zoo, so be sure to catch the baby polar bears or penguins while you're there.

If you're the designated driver for your friends or have children, don't fear! Just buy the non-sampling tickets, which are good for access to the event area and all-day admission to the zoo. Children over 2 are required to have a ticket, especially to access Waterfowl Pavilion, while children under 2 can get in for free.

This event takes place from Saturday, May 25, to Sunday, May 26 from 1 to 7 p.m. Right now regular sampling tickets are $42.99 if you purchase before Thursday, January 31, at noon. Prices will increase closer to the event, so reserve yours today.

Whether you're there for the summery brews or just want to mingle with the animals, this is truly an event for everybody. Check the zoo's website for more details.

Will you be attending Brew at the Zoo this Memorial Day weekend? Tell us in the comments below.

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