Though Naples has a reputation of its affinity for wine (see Naples Winter Wine Festival), craft beer is beginning to take a hold in the market in its own right. Case in point, the Naples Craft Beer Festival. Set for March 1 at Bayfront, this celebration of all things hoppy, malty and sudsy is now in its third year, creating a bastion of brewsy fun for craft beer aficionados, casual fans and the brew-curious.
From 12-4 p.m., the Naples Craft Beer Festival will showcase more than 80 craft beers and ciders from more than 20 brewers from around the country, including a few Florida reps, including Orlando Brewing, Pensacola Bay Brewery, Big Top Brewing Company (out of Sarasota) and everyone’s favorite local, Naples Beach Brewery. 
To make this a true foodie experience, local restaurants and chefs have been selected to create food pairings for select brews. Each sample is created to pair specifically with the beer in question, making this one of the most unique tastings to come to Naples all year. What’s more, festival goers and brewers will have a chance to mark their favorite match with the People’s Choice and Brewer’s Choice awards, so hone that palate folks. (For a full list of the brewers and restaurants coming to the festivities, click here for beer, here for food.)
Along with the craft beers and bites, the Sarah Hadeka Trio will take the stage, brining the tunes. Led by local singer/songwriter Sarah Hadeka, whose influences include Tori Amos. Ben Folds and The Cure, the show is worth admission alone, so be sure to take note over those frothy mugs.
- Admission cost $65 per person ($30 for designated drivers—food only), which includes beer and food tastings, as well as a commemorative tasting glass.
- For more information, visit naplescraftbeerfest.com.
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