While Taishan Butterstick may be turning one, complete with a celebration at the National Zoo, my feelings on such pro-kiddy Zoo activity is well known.

What you may not know, and for me is a much more compelling Zoo event, is August 24th’s Brew at the Zoo.

The hefty $50 tickets went on sale today, which allows you to stand in long lines to pay yet again for beers from 20 microbreweries and if you’re not early, stare at empty hors d’ouvres plates from area restaurants.

Now the scene is packed with 1,000+ locals, so there is action to be had, but watch those beer goggles. My 2004 Brew in the Zoo led to my worst date ever, when I learned to just say “no” to Yes.