Beer folk are known for their generosity. Often you can find them discussing new beers and offering to buy a pint for conversation mates. Tables of beer lovers frequently purchase rounds for each other to share the fun and show their love for each other. They are also known for their willingness to adopt a good cause and work towards raising money to help it along. Earlier this year we saw the Jacksonville Craft and Import Beer Festival benefit the Southside Business Men’s Club and this weekend you can drink for a cause again at the Beaches Summer Fest for MDA.

Now in its second year, the festival is a described by its creator, Jamie Gillis, as, “A very unique event with no crowds, and direct access to the brewers, chefs, and proprietors in a spacious oceanfront venue.” Entry to the event is limited to 300 with tickets purchased in advance. If there any tickets left on the day of the event, they will be available at the door. But, Gillis says that is unlikely. “This is a sell-out event,” he says due to the venue and charitable cause.

The ‘Fest will feature beer from local Florida breweries including Intuition Ale Works, Bold City, Green Room, Pinglehead, Engine 15, Three Palms, St. Somewhere, and Swamp Head. For those you prefer, wine will be served by Royal Palms Wine & Tapas as well.

Beaches and other area restaurants will also be highlighted at the event. Look for heavy hors d’oeuvres creations from North Beach Bistro, Engine 15 Brewing Company, Joseph’s Pizza, Alley Cakes, On The Fly Catering, Grassroots Natural Market, and Brewer’s Pizza.

Music to keep your toes tapping for the ‘Fest will be provided by Firewater Tent Revival and Paxton & Mike Acoustic Duo.

In addition to the food, drink, and music, the event will also feature a silent auction with local works of art for sale and other great items.

Discounted overnight stays for the event are available from the Courtyard by Marriott or the adjacent Fairfield Suites. Room rates start at $149 for the Courtyard and $99 for the Fairfield with $10 of each room rate going to the MDA. To reserve a room go to: http://cwp.marriott.com/jaxjv/beachessummerfest/.

This year’s ‘Fest is set for Saturday, Sept. 15 from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the Courtyard by Marriott Oceanfront in Jacksonville Beach. Tickets are $40 in advance. To purchase tickets or get more information go to the event Facebook page at: http://www.facebook.com/beachessummerfest.