Throughout the Bay area, CL's weekend menu of events is looking pretty good for food and drink enthusiasts. You could also always hit up the anticipated Nebraska Mini-Mart, which has launched in soft-opening mode.
• Hockey and craft beer? No-brainer. Starting at 7 p.m. Friday, CL teams up with the Tampa Bay Lightning for another Bolts Brew Fest, where local and national beermakers invade the Amalie Arena concourse with more than 100 craft suds. Interactive and Lightning-themed games are in store, and a portion of the proceeds benefits the Humane Society of Tampa Bay. Find general admission tickets online. $55 in advance, $65 at doors. 401 Channelside Drive, Tampa.
• Help freshen up Sweetwater Organic Community Farm from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday. Participants of Give Your Community Farm a Little TLC assist with removing invasive specifies and beautifying the property while working on projects in the herb garden, education stations and Native Plant Trail. Tools and gloves are provided, but bring sunscreen, a hat and water. RSVP to Joy at [email protected] Free. 6942 W. Comanche Ave., Tampa. 813-887-4066.
• Patronize some of the food and drink businesses that call St. Pete Beach home — including Swigwam Beach Bar, Tapz and Chill Restaurant & Bar — during Saturday's Shellebration. Hosted by the Corey Avenue Business Association, this third annual fundraiser from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. benefits Sea Turtle Trackers. Highlights include raffle prizes, a silent auction, educational festivities and an activity area for kids. Free, money for food and drinks. Corey Avenue, St. Pete Beach.
• Also on Saturday, more beer gets poured during the 4th Anniversary Party for Coppertail Brewing Co. This year's celebration isn't driven by Berlinerweisses, but several styles of 40-plus beers are planned on tap from both Coppertail and guest breweries. Expect food and music as well. VIP entry is sold out, but the good news is that the bash is free to attend after 1 p.m. Free, money for beer. 2601 E. Second Ave., Tampa. 813-247-1500.
• St. Petersburgers of all denominations — we're talking food, not humans — have started throwing down during the Grand Central District Association's annual Battle of the Burg(er). However, that doesn't mean you can't partake in the edible fun on Sunday. The monthlong competition, which began Aug. 1 and doesn't end till September, lets diners taste their way around patties served up at select Grand Central eateries, then vote for the tastiest contenders online to crown the People's Choice (a Judges' Choice will be awarded, too). Winners are announced Sept. 3. Free, money for food. Grand Central District, St. Petersburg.
