Try “Charlie’s Choice” at Brew at the Zoo

Time is running out for reservations for the first Brew at the Zoo of 2021, kicking off on Thursday, May 27. Back by popular demand are beer sampling from some of the Atlanta metro area’s favorite breweries; live music; free carousel and train rides; and evening animal viewing. Capacity is limited for the event, which will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Guests under 21 will not be admitted.

Brew at the Zoo returns after a year’s hiatus with updates in place for 2021 only, including a total of four monthly chances to attend. Reservations are available now for all four events: May 27, June 25, July 23, and August 27.

The May 27 event will feature the debut of Charlie’s Choice: A Conservation Ale, an exclusive new brew developed by SweetWater Brewery in partnership with Zoo Atlanta. Earlier this year, Charlie, a 24-year-old member of the Zoo’s adult male bachelor group of western lowland gorillas, was selected to assist in choosing the ingredients for the special themed creation. Charlie had the opportunity to choose one of three fruit options: grapefruit, wild berries, and banana – all fruits that are part of the gorillas’ diets. His selection was grapefruit, which became the basis of Charlie’s Choice. Charlie’s Choice: A Conservation Ale will be available for tasting at Brew at the Zoo; for purchase through the season at the all-new SweetWater Beer Garden on the grounds of Zoo Atlanta; and for a limited time at the SweetWater Taproom, where a portion of its proceeds will benefit Zoo Atlanta.

In addition to SweetWater Brewery, participating breweries include Down Home Brewing Co.; Fire Maker Brewing Company; Monday Night Brewing; New Realm Brewing Company; Red Hare Brewing; Scofflaw Brewing Co.; Tucker Brewing Company; Urban Tree Cidery; Wild Heaven Beer; and Wild Leap Brewing Company. Select wines will also be available.

Live music at the May 27 event will include tunes from The Jump Cut, DJ Ree de la Vega, and Lilac Wine. Visit zooatlanta.org/brew for musical lineups scheduled for the June 25, July 23, and August 27 events, as a new lineup will be featured at each event.

Get tickets and info at zooatlanta.org/brew.