What it be: Italian Cheese and Wine Tasting
When it do: 7 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 1 and 8 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 2
Where dat is: Scardello, 3511 Oak Lawn Ave.
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The sleepy town of West is the kind of place you pass by going 80 mph on your way to Austin. But wise people don't pass by. Wise people stop and feast on kolaches — great, fluffy, yeasty kolaches. Once a year, West celebrates its Czech heritage with a weekend of polka, carnival rides, dancing and lots and lots of food (including, but not limited to, kolaches.) Tickets start at $8 for adults.
What it be: Westfest
When it do: Friday, Sept. 2 through Sunday, Sept. 4
Where dat is: 1110 S Main St., West
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Rejoice, readers, for this Labor Day weekend, there are smoked meats to be had and songs to be heard. That's right, the Bedford Blues & BBQ Festival is here. Several barbecue competitions will take place throughout the weekend, and tasting tickets will be sold on site for the mop-to-mop battle that is the Kansas City Barbecue Society competition. This year's festival will see two New Orleans musical legends, Trombone Shorty and Dr. John, who will take the stage on Saturday and Sunday, respectively. Admission is $7 per day in advance or $10 cash at the gate.
What it be: Bedford Blues and BBQ Fest: Dr. John / Trombone Shorty
When it do: 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 2; 2 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 3 and Sunday, Sept. 4
Where dat is: 2000 Forest Ridge Drive, Bedford
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Blythe Beck is marking the one year anniversary of Pink Magnolia — her self-proclaimed baby — in true Blythe Beck style. The afternoon will feature a veritable explosion of all things pink, from pink food and drinks to a pink carpet and even a pink pony. Yes, that's right, there will be a pink pony. It's all in the name of a good cause, through, with proceeds benefiting the Genesis Women's Shelter. Call 469-320-9220 for reservations. Tickets are $35 for adults.
What it be: Pink Party at Pink Magnolia
When it do: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 3
Where dat is: Pink Magnolia, 642 W Davis St.
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Chances are you haven't been to Ethiopia, but that doesn't mean you have to miss out on Ethiopian dishes like tibs, a traditional sautéed meat dish. Taste of Ethiopia ($25), a component of the Ethiopia Day festival, will save you the plane ticket by bringing tibs and other Ethiopian foods straight to you. Ticket holders to Taste of Ethiopia will get to sample a myriad bites and beverages courtesy of local Ethiopian restaurants, as well as experience the traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony.
What it be: Ethiopia Day and Taste of Ethiopia
When it do: 12 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 3 and Sunday, Sept. 4
Where dat is: 2000 E. Spring Creek Parkway, Plano
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OK, we may be slightly partial to this event. But then again, who isn't partial to good music and good beer? Both local, of course. In celebration of the upcoming Dallas Observer BrewFest, this 12-hour, 11-act musical showcase will also feature the release of Tip Jar, the Martin House Brewing Co./13th Floor Music collaboration beer. Headliner Charley Crockett is slated to take the stage at 10:30 p.m. Oh, and did we mention this event is f.r.e.e.?
What it be: BrewFest Official Pre-Party
When it do: Noon to midnight Sunday, Sept. 4
Where dat is: The Rustic, 3656 Howell St.
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Does beer taste better when brewed in a garage or in a pantry? Find out at the fifth annual Labor of Love home-brewing competition, where over 50 home-brewers are expected. A $30 membership fee includes access to the competition and, more important, unlimited samples. This event will take place at Deep Ellum Brewing Co. and will also feature food trucks and live music. Must be 21 or older to attend.
What it be: Labor of Love
When it do: 6 to 10 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 4
Where dat is: 2823 St. Louis St.
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