The annual BAM Fest returns to the 18th Street Arts Center (1639 18th Street) in Santa Monica, CA this Saturday from 1-6PM. Celebrating the local music and craft beer scene, its sure to be an action-packed afternoon showcasing more than 35 breweries and 4 live bands.

With a couple of years under their belt, organizers have streamlined the festival, enhancing the experience for the large crowds that are sure to descend upon LA’s Westside this weekend. For instance, the beer selection is far more varied than in previous years, featuring breweries large and small, from up and down the California coast.

Some sensational San Diego all-stars will be on-hand, such as the renowned Stone Brewing, Pizza Port and Ballast Point. All three of these southern Californian favorites offer hopheads unmitigated delight with plenty of IBUs to go around.

From up north, stalwarts such as Sierra Nevada and Anchor Brewing will be serving up tastings of their prominent mainstays–pale ale and steam beer, respectively. Petaluma’s own Lagunitas will also be in attendance, ever a darling of the craft beer scene.

For those that have a hankering for something a little closer to home, some big players from LA’s rapidly expanding craft community will be tapping up tastiness. Cismontane, Ladyface, Golden Road, Hangar 24, Monkish, Smog City and El Segundo Brewing are but a few of the local libations that you’ll get to choose from.

Tickets are only $40 if you order online ($45 at the door). All proceeds benefit the 18th Street Arts Center. You can purchase them here. Included with admission is 5 hours of unlimited beer sampling, live music, access to galleries, artist studios and general frivolity. Not a bad deal. By combining the joys of beer, art and music, it’s no wonder that BAM Fest is quickly becoming one of LA’s favorite annual events.