Every week I pick out the best culinary and social events happening on the weekends in the DC area. I choose the fun, exciting and enlightening events. This week is no different. You can go to a brewery festival or entertain your mouth with a menu full of bacon.  I have added a little picture to the post.  Tucker and I were visited the other day by a preying mantis.  Kind of weird, but a really cool picture.

I guess he wanted some grilled scallops

Piazza d’Italia 2009 – Friday and Saturday (Oct. 23-24)

National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) is bringing the best of Italy to Washington, D.C., for “Piazza d’Italia,” a two-day exhibition at the Hilton Washington.

At Piazza d’Italia, exhibitors will be given the opportunity to introduce their products and services to our faithful gathering of Italian and Italian American gala attendees from across the U.S. and Italy, distinguished guests, dignitaries and — as the Piazza is an open event — a large gathering of residents from the greater Washington, D.C. area. The convention and gala attract more than 3,000 guests including importers, distributors, travel agents and other business leaders. Highlights from this two-day event include:

• Wine Tastings
• Food Tastings
• Appearances by Celebrity Guests
• Cooking Demonstrations
• Musical Performances
• and much more.

Friday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

http://www.niaf.org/events/2009/piazza/index.asp

Northern Virginia Brewfest

The World Beer Experience will feature more than 40 of the world’s best breweries, plenty of delicious food to complement the craft beers and outstanding local and regional bands providing entertainment.

Tickets for the BrewFest purchased on the day of the event will be $25 for an Adult admission (must be 21 years of age or older) and $20 for a Designated Driver admission. Tickets are available prior to the opening of the event through our online provider.  Advance purchase tickets are $20 for an Adult ticket and $15 for a Designated Driver ticket.

Open Saturday and Sunday 11am-7pm

Location: 7700 Bull Run Drive, Centreville, VA 20121

http://novabrewfest.com/fall/

Week of Bacon @ 3 Bar and Grill

From now until the 27th, 3 Bar is having a week of bacon.  Everything from bacon on a stick to Bacon Crusted Mahi Mahi to a Bacon Studded Waffle with Maple Bacon Ice Cream.  You have to check it out if you like Bacon!!!

2950 Clarendon Blvd., Arlington, VA 22201

http://www.restaurantthree.com/weekofbacon_menu.pdf

Barktoberfest – Saturday (Oct. 24)

Tucker asked me to post this.  Music and Pet Lovers Festival.  I checked and the website and it is cool if pets bring their owners.  Barktoberfest is a fun-filled day of pets, music, games, food, and prizes.  Adults and kids alike will have a great time, and well-behaved canines are welcome to attend!

Saturday from noon till 6pm

Melodee Music – 46077 Lake Center Plaza – Sterling, VA 20165

http://www.barktoberfest.org/