All around the nation, things are gearing up for spring.
You can't walk into a local department store without being confronted by things like swimsuits and shorts for sale (this despite the fact that you're likely as not bundled up against the bitter winter chill).
However, if you want an inspiring sign that spring is on its way, you only need to look to Arizona, where the first annual Arizona Beer Week is kicking off on February 19.
Arizona Beer Week is just one of the many events held in this craft beer-loving state.
This weeklong celebration of beer and brewing is put on by the Arizona Craft Brewers Guild, and it's designed to coincide with the Strong Beer Festival in Phoenix (the 11th annual celebration).
In total, Arizona Beer Week will see more than 160 different events all throughout the state.
The main event is going to be Old Pueblo Winterfest, on the 26th of February, but there will be plenty to do, see and drink before that, though.
In fact, the Old Pueblo festival actually marks the end of the event.
Winterfest alone will give you a chance to sample more than 100 different beers from brewers like Gordon Biersch Brewery and Thunder Canyon Brewery.
There's also a lot going on in Flagstaff, where Lumberyard Brewing Company will have an event every day for the entire week, ranging from a beach party to a bacon and firkin beer event.
There will be a brewer's dinner at Brix in Flagstaff on the 23, as well.
If you'll be out toward Sedona and Oak Creek, you won't be left out, either.
Oak Creek Brewery will be sponsoring a burgers and beer event, as well as a celebration at Fournos Restaurant.
Prescott, Camp Verde and Tucson also have a range of beer festival events slated, so you'll be able to slake your thirst almost anywhere in the state.
If you live in Arizona, or even nearby, you'll find that Arizona Beer Week is a great way to find some excellent craft beers and enjoy great company at the same time.
Of course, you'll have to plan now - the event ends on the 26th, so get yourself in gear.
What better excuse do you need to visit the area, though? Come celebrate the spirit of craft brewing for an entire week (or as long as you can stay).
Poto Cervesia, Dustin Canestorp
You can't walk into a local department store without being confronted by things like swimsuits and shorts for sale (this despite the fact that you're likely as not bundled up against the bitter winter chill).
However, if you want an inspiring sign that spring is on its way, you only need to look to Arizona, where the first annual Arizona Beer Week is kicking off on February 19.
Arizona Beer Week is just one of the many events held in this craft beer-loving state.
This weeklong celebration of beer and brewing is put on by the Arizona Craft Brewers Guild, and it's designed to coincide with the Strong Beer Festival in Phoenix (the 11th annual celebration).
In total, Arizona Beer Week will see more than 160 different events all throughout the state.
The main event is going to be Old Pueblo Winterfest, on the 26th of February, but there will be plenty to do, see and drink before that, though.
In fact, the Old Pueblo festival actually marks the end of the event.
Winterfest alone will give you a chance to sample more than 100 different beers from brewers like Gordon Biersch Brewery and Thunder Canyon Brewery.
There's also a lot going on in Flagstaff, where Lumberyard Brewing Company will have an event every day for the entire week, ranging from a beach party to a bacon and firkin beer event.
There will be a brewer's dinner at Brix in Flagstaff on the 23, as well.
If you'll be out toward Sedona and Oak Creek, you won't be left out, either.
Oak Creek Brewery will be sponsoring a burgers and beer event, as well as a celebration at Fournos Restaurant.
Prescott, Camp Verde and Tucson also have a range of beer festival events slated, so you'll be able to slake your thirst almost anywhere in the state.
If you live in Arizona, or even nearby, you'll find that Arizona Beer Week is a great way to find some excellent craft beers and enjoy great company at the same time.
Of course, you'll have to plan now - the event ends on the 26th, so get yourself in gear.
What better excuse do you need to visit the area, though? Come celebrate the spirit of craft brewing for an entire week (or as long as you can stay).
Poto Cervesia, Dustin Canestorp