Beer! Is there anything it can't do?! Beer has a long and storied history dating back to ancient Egypt. What could be better after a day of slaving away building the pyramids than to enjoy a beer? Throughout the ages, beer has been a great equalizer, enjoyed by members of all social and economic strata. With summer just around the corner and National Homebrew Day upon us, whip up a batch, kick back, and participate in the tradition that has been around longer than the Great Pyramid.

**To brew your own beer, you will need a Mr. Beer or similar kit available on line or in finer retail stores.

INVITATION TYPE

• Online

DECORATIONS

• Since the purpose of this party is to make beer, don't make too much of a mess or fuss with decorations that will only have to be cleaned up later.

FOOD AND DRINK MENU

Since this is a "working party", be sure to keep the menu (and subsequent cleanup) nice and simple. When choosing your recipes consider what food you will likely serve at the follow-up Beer Tasting Party. Beer, like wine, can be paired with specific foods to enhance the flavor of each. Click here to find suggested pairings based on your hypothetical menu.

** Remember, this is a working party, you don't want to have too much to clean up.

• Appetizer: Chips and salsa or a veggie tray are typically universally acceptable.
• Entrée: Pizza, or hamburgers and hotdogs are quick and easy to make (or purchase), serve, and clean up.
• Dessert: Cookies, cakes, and brownies are readily available in your local grocery store.
• Cocktail: Beer. Have everyone bring a six-pack of their favorite and try new things!

ENTERTAINMENT

• "Why don't we get drunk?" Jimmy Buffet
• Suggested films:
  • Beerfest
  • Strange Brew

GAMES

• Beer Pong (click here for rules and instructions)
• Any number of drinking games found here.
• Compare "war stories" of your college beer drinking days.

ATTIRE

• Jeans, shorts and t-shirts are perfectly acceptable for this party. Remember, this is a working party to be followed up by enjoying the fruits of your labors.

LAST MINUTE TIPS

Be sure to take notes as you go through the beer process (especially important because the more you partake in beer sampling, the more you may forget what works and what doesn't).

And as always, remember to bring your camera!