Boston

I like beer. I like beer a lot. I also like shellfish. I don't like paying entrance fees for the stuff that I like, but when it comes to the Shellfish Shindig on September 14th (12 pm-5 pm), I'll happily fork over the $10. Unfortunately, according to the website, $10 only gets you "tastings of Samuel Adams beers." So, yes, you're going to have to fork over some cash for the locally caught oysters, quahogs, and steamers. But won't it be worth it to bask in the company of ale, folk and mollusks? I'm just hoping that the shellfish don't cost too much and the so-called beer "tastings" amount to at least two pints.

Photo:  Todd Strauss

Mmmm, beer good. If buying the full-flavored brew at the local bodega isn’t enough, trek out to Jamaica Plain (the MBTA Stony Brook T stop on the Orange Line) for the annual Sam Adams’ Beer Lover’s Choice promotion running for nine weeks starting Friday, July 27 until Monday, October 1. The brewery currently churns out 21 flavors of frothy bliss and, with your help, they may offer a few more in 2008. Experience the entire brewing process from start to finish and sample several of their newer potent potables, including the Samuel Adams Utopias collection. For a mere $2 donation, beer connoisseurs are encouraged to sample two potential styles of beer and are asked to pick their favorite. For the novice, tour guides even offer a tutorial on the steps used when judging a beer. More of a foo-foo Cosmo cocktail drinker? No worries. The intoxicating smells of Hallertau and Tettnang hops will quickly win you over. Bottoms up.

Photo:  Courtesy Boston Beer Co.