Beer and chili in Sacramento this weekend

As the winter season comes to a close, one cold-weather stew will receive a lively send-off this Saturday. The Sacramento Beer & Chili Festival at Southside Park (2116 Sixth Street), which coincides with Beer Week, celebrates both vegetarian and meat versions of a certain hearty stew called chili. The competition will determine a winner in three categories: individual, corporate and industry. Additionally, attendees can pair their chili with a beer from such regional breweries as Ruhstaller, Sudwerk and Lost Coast. Local band As Yet Untitled will kick out some live jams.

The event is run by Sacramento Artists Council and raises money for art programs for at-risk youth. Tickets for chili-tasting only are $15.75 in advance and $20 at the door; tickets for chili and beer tasting are $36.50 in advance and $40 at the door. To purchase tickets, and for more information, visit http://sacramentobeerandchilifestival.com.

Jonathan Mendick