Christmas for Beer Lovers

Christmas is coming early for beer lovers. Last night was the Three Floyds tasting at Birreria Paradiso, which we previewed in last week's Nightlife Agenda. Sadly, none of us made it, but there are more chances to taste some new (or new-to-you) ales this week.

Rustico's bar will be more crowded than usual at its annual Festivus party. (Gerald Martineau/The Washington Post)

Rustico's bringing back its Festivus party tonight, though without with customary Feats of Strength or Airing of Grievances. "We wanted to do that last year, but there were just too many people," explains beer director Greg Engert. "This year, it's more about the beer theme."

The theme is this: Purchase one of four special seasonal beers -- Troeg's Mad Elf, Bell's Christmas Ale, Gouden Carolus Noel and Harpoon Winter Warmer -- and you'll get a special glass from that brewery to take home. Engert reports that he has at least 100 of each brewery's glasses to give away, but huge crowds mean they go fast, especially the Mad Elf, which is a special Belgian goblet. Beers cost between $5 and $9.

On Wednesday, it's part two of the Brickskeller's Holidaze Extravaganvee, with local brewers leading tastings of their seasonal selections. Find out what's new at Vintage 50, Brewer's Art, Sweetwater Tavern and Franklin's, among others. The night's hosted by the esteemed Bob Tupper of the currently-out-of-production Tupper's Hop Pocket beers. Tickets are $35 from lovethebeer.com, which includes all your samples and a chance to help polish off the kegs at the end of the night.

-- Fritz