Top of the Hops Beer Festival

Celebrating the exploding popularity of craft beers from around the world, the fifth annual Top of the Hops Beer Festival returns to the Mississippi Coast Coliseum with a roaring "Cheers!" Patrons get to fill their commemorative sampling mugs over and over again as they have access to unlimited two-ounce samples of over 150 world-class craft beers in four beer gardens. Plus educational seminars such as Cooking with Beer, Food Pairings, and Brewing 101, live music, games, and more. 
Tickets are $45 via Ticketmaster; $85 VIP ticket holders gain access to the festival one hour early to take advantage of a more exclusive beer tasting experience, and entry into a private VIP area with complimentary food and an exclusive beer selection. For the good samaritans, there's also a "Designated Driver" ticket available for $15 in advance. 2350 Beach Boulevard. topofthehopsbeerfest.com.