Tap Talk: Mpls. Hosts Inaugural Minnesota Craft Beer Festival

Just a few years after a swell of breweries put Minnesota on the beer map, the state is getting its own craft beer festival.

On Saturday, April 23 the Minneapolis Convention Center is hosting the inaugural Minnesota Craft Beer Festival.

The festival, presented by national beer magazine Craft Beer & Brewing Magazine, will featured over 220 beers from over 80 breweries, local and national.

"Minnesota has a strong base of craft beer enthusiasts, brewers and innovators," John Bolton, CEO of Unfiltered Media and publisher of Craft Beer & Brewing Magazine, said in a recent press release. "Our event provides those beer lovers the chance to sample unique pours of craft beer from regional and national breweries."

Each brewery will bring either a limited edition or taproom-only beer for patrons to try. And in addition to great beer, Minnesota's own Erik Berry of Trampled By Turtles will perform.

Some local breweries participating include, but aren't limited to, Bauhaus, Boom Island, F-Town, Fair State, Schells, Summit and Surly. Some national breweries featured include Deshutes and Bell's.

The festival will take place from 3 to 6 p.m.

Tickets cost $39.99 for an unlimited tasting, or $19.99 for designated drivers. A portion of the proceeds goes to Twin Cities Habitate for Humanity.

For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit Minnesota Craft Beer Festival online.