If you like to imbibe a cold one, Seattle is your town. Our neighborhood, in particular, with the Fremont Oktoberfest and daily beer epicenters such as Brouwer’s Cafe, Dad Watson and the George & Dragon Pub, is just like heaven for those who appreciate a well-poured pint. it’s no wonder Seattle Beer Week would kick off here Thursday at 5 p.m., at Hale’s Brewery (4301 Leary Way). Those who go can witness the tapping of the inaugural cask!

Some might say *every* week is Beer Week, but there is actually an event called Seattle Beer Week, and this year it is from May 13 - 23 (so it’s actually a little more than a week).

Hale’s is one of the sponsors, as is Brouwer’s, but other locals get in on the action too. It’s a good excuse to try the brew Hale’s made specifically for Seattle Beer Week and celebrate Seattle’s thriving beer culture - with a hearty, handmade Shultzy’s Sausage, of course.

The festivities take place all over the city, but they end up back where they began, at Hale’s. On May 23, from noon to 5 p.m., beer connoisseurs can taste brews from 22 different Washington breweries, including Naked City, Scuttlebutt, Chuckanut and Fremont Brewing.