The inaugural 2009 Washington, DC Beer Week will feature more than a dozen domestic and international breweries and involve restaurants and bars from all sectors of the district. The 5-day extravaganza of beer tasting events will give consumers an opportunity to meet and greet with brewers, experience food and beer pairings, and learn about beer styles and the history of brewing.

Long known for international diversity, Washington, DC has evolved into a world-class beer town. This coincides with the growth of DC as a culinary and nightlife destination. DC Beer Week will create an opportunity for consumers to experience exceptional beer and food in a vast array of bars and restaurants in the vibrant parts of the city.

The series of events launches with a concert and party at the Rock & Roll Hotel on Sunday Aug 16. Located in one of the fastest growing parts of DC, the Atlas District, this “Unity Jam” will provide an opportunity to experience DC’s diverse music scene at an all-day indoor concert. Specials on a selection of the R&R’s beer offerings will be available. Additionally, a VIP ticket option is offered for purchase that will allow guests to taste a range of hard-to-find brews in the upstairs “hotel” rooms. The event kicks off at 2 pm and it is much encouraged to arrive early to partake in some rare treats and not miss any of the great live music.

From Monday, Aug 17 until Wednesday, Aug 19 the event committee will be organizing events all around town to create an opportunity for consumers to interact with brewers and showcase the emergence of beer in the culinary landscape. Many events will focus on regional cuisine to be paired with their local breweries.

- Did you know that beer is the ultimate accompaniment to cheese?

- That the 2nd largest port town in the country not only produces some of the best oysters but is also home to a “Beer Nation”?

- That beer can be used to cook with and helps bring out flavors in many dishes resulting in a style of cooking called “cuisine a la biere”?

These unique events are being staged to help celebrate beer culture in a fun atmosphere to further elevate the consumer image of what beer is and its importance in the universe.

“DC Beer Week” will open the eyes of many about the complexities of beer in relaxed settings throughout the district’s neighborhoods. Most importantly, DC residents will experience the most important objective - Beer is Fun!