One of the best beer events in the northeastern U.S. takes the Finger Lakes by storm this weekend: Ithaca Brew Fest 2010.

A showcase of nearly fifty breweries from all over the country and beyond, this widely beloved and well-attended beer festival has increased rapidly in popularity since it began just four years ago.

Sponsored by Ithaca Beer Company, Cayuga Radio, and Wegman's, the event takes place this Saturday, September 4 from 3 to 7 p.m. in Stewart Park on Cayuga Lake.

In addition to fantastic beer from local favorites such as Middle Ages, Captain Lawrence and Brooklyn as well as out-of-towners Abita and Widmer and German legends Wiehenstephan and Spaten, the festival will feature live music, local food, and a chance to meet the people behind the beers. A list of attending breweries and their locations at the festival can be found here. 

Tickets to the festival are $35 and can be purchased at Wegman's, Ithaca Beer Company or online.

For a more intimate beer experience, a $75 VIP ticket gets you early admission to the festival at 2:00 p.m. for a chance to sample specialty beers and meet some of the brewers in a less chaotic atmosphere. Last year the fest sold out — so if you're interested in this awesome showcase of regional beer, get your tickets before it's too late!