Second year, more beer

The Spokane Brewers Festival returns for its second go-round this weekend with a few new wrinkles.

Forty breweries and cideries will pour in the Spokane Arena parking lot on Friday (4 to 8 p.m.) and Saturday (11 a.m. to 8), up from last year’s 34.

Ticket pricing has changed. Last year you bought a tasting mug and wristband good for both days for $7, and drink tickets for $1 each (2-ounce pours for one ticket, 10 ounces for five). This year, it’s a package deal at the door including 13 tickets for $30 (extra tickets still are $1).

No one under age 21 is allowed on the grounds this year, under a new Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board ruling. (If you already bought tickets and planned to bring your children along, call 509-279-7455 to discuss a refund.)

And in maybe the biggest difference, the Arena has partnered with the statewide hunger relief group Feeding Washington. That not only adds a charitable aspect, but under state liquor law allows breweries to pour their own beer, unlike last year – one of the biggest complaints by brewers and customers alike.

Hired servers simply “don’t know the beer,” says the Arena’s Matt Gibson. “We’ve learned the ropes and we’re moving forward with a bigger and better festival.”