Cost: $15 in advance, $20 at the door

Organizer: Drinking & Writing Brewery

What to expect: This 4th annual event at the Hopleaf, organized by the Drinking & Writing Brewery, will be focused on the life and work of Hunter S. Thompson. Admission includes 10 beer sample tickets, a complimentary beer glass, the "2 Drink Minimum Writing Contest" and appearances from local writers and drinkers (including Northwestern professor Bill Savage and Modern Drunkard's Frank Kelly Rich).

Why to go: You can start believing your drinking is poetic instead of just destructive. The D&W Festival celebrates the connection between creativity and alcohol, and there will be plenty of both on hand. Expect brews from Rock Bottom, Goose Island, Metro, Flying Dog and some guy you've never heard of.

Additional info: Famed British cartoonist Ralph Steadman, a longtime pal and partner of Hunter S. Thompson, designed this year's poster; two signed copies will be raffled off during the festival.

Centerstage Reviewer: Ben Rubenstein