If you share a love for beer with a love for animals, this is one summer event you cannot miss. The Philadelphia Zoo Summer Ale Festival on Saturday, July 21, is your chance to sip great suds among the varied creatures who make their home at the West Philly sanctuary. Over 21 breweries will be pouring during the 6:30–10 PM event, including several of the region’s newest nano-operations, such as Round Guys, Old Forge, Evil Genius and Neshaminy Creek Brewing Cos.

Old favorites will be representing, too, including Victory, Triumph, Sly Fox, Manayunk Brewery and many more. Plenty of summertime eats will complement the craft brew, including bites from Smokin’ Bettys, Rembrandt’s, Cavanaugh’s Rittenhouse, The Farmers’ Cabinet, Marathon Grill and more than a dozen others.

Your $65 ticket includes food and drink, a souvenir tasting mug and on-site parking or shuttle to and from 30th Street Station. Spring for a $95 VIP ticket to get in half an hour early, plus access to a special air-conditioned area in the PECO primate reserve (cool off with the chimps!).

In addition to the live animals, guests will be able to experience the 3D, interactive Trail of the Lorax, which was produced in partnership with Dr. Seuss Enterprises and traces the true story of the endangered orangutan (who are extremely fun to watch). The event is now in its fourth year, and is always a good time — check out the video from the 2011 Summer Ale Festival, above, and snag your ticket now, space is limited.

Event Date: 07/21
Event Time: 6:30-10 PM
Location: Philadelphia Zoo
Price: $65; VIP $95
Website: www.philadelphiazoo.org/zoo/Visit-The-Zoo/Calendar-of-Events/Summer-Ale-Festival.htm