Congratulations, you made it through yet another working week. You might as well give yourself a pat on the back to celebrate — or better yet, a drink or three. This weekend in Broward and Palm Beach counties, choose from the debut of Trader Joe’s, New Times's Beer Fest, a pumpkin cooking class, and more for your fun foodie events.
Oktoberfests
It's officially Oktoberfest season, so check out our roundup of all the specials and events taking place throughout Broward and Palm Beach counties.
Friday
Trader Joe’s Grand Opening
Move over, Publix and Whole Foods: Trader Joe’s is here. Opening Friday at 8 a.m., the store will offer a large variety of food unique to other grocery stores. The store is located at 2296 S. University Drive in The Tower Shops.
Saturday
New Times’ "Original" Beerfest presented By Isle Casino Pompano Park
Beerfest is here, and needless to say, it’s going to epic. Featured here will be unlimited samplings of 100 beers, live music, interactive games, and food. As well, Miss Beerfest 2015 will be crowned. Beers include Brew Bus Brewing, Florida Beer Company, Oskar Blues Brewery, Red Hook and more. Cost of admission is $40 for general admission, $80 for VIP, and $65 for Brew Master.The fest is from 7 to 10 p.m. at Esplanade Park (400 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale). *Note: VIP tickets are sold out, but Brew Master and general admission tickets are still available. However, Brew Master tickets usually sell out in advance as well and Friday, October 9, is your last chance to save money on general admission by purchasing online, so don't wait for the gate! Visit newtimesbeerfest.com.
Second Annual Picnic for Parkinson's
The Movers and Shakers, an organization that raises funds and awareness for Parkinson’s research, is hosting their second-annual Picnic for Parkinson’s at Quiet Waters Park (401 S. Powerline Rd., Deerfield Beach). Attendees will enjoy a bounce house, lawn games, volleyball and food sponsored by Cheney Brothers International. The picnic starts at 11 a.m.Tickets are $5 for adults, free for children. Proceeds will benefit the Michael J. Fox Foundation.Visit PicnicForParkinsons.EventBrite.com.
Riverwalk's 10th Annual Mutts & Martinis
Outside the comfort of your home, not all places are pooch- and cocktail-friendly. Enter Riverwalk's tenth-annual Mutts & Martinis, an event where this is the exception. Admission is $20 prepaid and $25 at the door. Proceeds will benefit the Humane Society of Broward County. Admission grants two free drinks, appetizers, live music, entertainment and more. The event starts at noon and ends at 3 p.m. at the Historic DownTowner (10 S. New River Dr. East, Fort Lauderdale). Visit BlackTie.com.
ARToberfest
Sponsored by Saltwater Brewery, ARToberfest will feature tons of 52 bands and 60 art vendors. This is the perfect time to try some new, seasonal beer while jamming out to music and appreciating some art. The event starts at 2 p.m. at 6 S. J St., Lake Worth and is two days long. No admission. Visit PropagandaLW.com.
Sunday
Pumpkin Cooking Class
Want to learn how to cook with pumpkin? Now is your chance. At noon, head over to Williams-Sonoma in the Village at Gulfstream Park (901 S. Federal Hwy., Hallandale Beach), to polish your cooking skills and impress your friends. Admission is free.
All Weekend Long
Dine Out Fort Lauderdale
Dining for cheap in Fort Lauderdale is also in effect with three-course dinners at $35. Participating restaurants include Beauty and the Feast, Chart House, 15th Street Fisheries and more. This ends October 12. Visit sunny.org/dineout.
For more events, visit our online calendar or pick up the print edition of the New Times Broward-Palm Beach every Thursday. To submit an event, use our online form.
Natalya Jones is both a food and music writer covering Broward and Palm Beach counties. To get the latest in entertainment and fun things to do in South Florida, follow her on Twitter.