Utah Beer Festival expands to a 2-day event with 200 beers and ciders

Sample new beers or try old favorites during the eighth annual Utah Beer Festival on Saturday and Sunday at the Utah State Fairpark.

The two-day event features 200 beers and ciders from local, regional and international brewers. There will be live music, a karaoke stage, food and games. The event also is a fundraiser for the Humane Society of Utah.

Hosted by City Weekly, the event has grown steadily since its inception, outgrowing its two previous locations — Gallivan Center and Washington Square. Last year, the event moved to the fairpark and attracted 7,000 attendees, proof that America’s beer renaissance has arrived in Utah, organizers say.

Admission includes a 5-ounce sample mug and some tokens. More tokens, which are $1 each, can be purchased in advance or at the event. Most samples cost 1 to 4 tokens. Some designated booths will have 12-once draft beers, ranging from 3 to 6 tokens.

This year, participating breweries are 2 Row Brewing, Anderson Valley Brewing, Bonneville Brewing, Desert Edge, Hoppers Grill and Brewing, Moab Brewing, Proper Brewing Company, Red Rock, Talisman Brewing, Fisher Brewing and Zion Brewing.