With winter well underway, any excuse to get out of the house is certainly warranted for us. So when beer and the Shore come together we can’t think of a better combination.
 

Now in its fifth year, the Asbury Park Beerfest returns with more beer, more activities, and more food than ever. Guests will be able to sample over 40 different beers and ciders, including brews from New Jersey breweries like:
 

and Asbury Park’s own Dark City Brewing
 

There will also be food available from vendors for guests to nibble on over the course of three different four-hour sessions, stretched across two days at the Asbury Park Convention Hall.
 

And if you’re the competitive type, the Beerfest brings back their Masskrugstemmen, or annual stein holding contest. The winner takes home a trophy and some serious bragging rights.
 

While the Saturday noon session sold out at the start of 2016, tickets are available at the door or in advance online and at The Stone Pony’s box office. There will also be designated driver discounts, for all guests 21-and-over purchased on the day-of.

And partial proceeds from the festival benefits three local charities: Officer Down, which supports families of deceased or permanently disabled state law enforcement officers; Clean Ocean Action, a national group that cares for New Jersey’s ocean and coasts; and Best Day Foundation, which provides special needs children with watersport activities and lessons.

Photo via Asbury Park Beerfest