This Friday marks the start of San Diego Beer Week, one of the most highly anticipated events of the calendar year. A whole slew of tastings, festivals and frivolity is lined up during the 10 days from November 2nd to the 11th. Here’s a look at some of the best that’s in store for this upcoming weekend…

On Friday morning, world famous Stone Brewing (1999 Citracado Parkway) in Escondido will host their Rare Beer Breakfast. For $65, those in attendance will be able to enjoy fifteen 3oz. tasters to accompany an all-you-can-eat brunch featuring omelettes, chicken n’ waffle tickets, and–most importantly–pork belly that’s been braised in Stone’s very own Arrogant Bastard Ale. In addition to a list of 15 exclusive craft brews on tap, the event will also showcase more than 2 dozen bottles of extremely limited craft specialties from around the globe. Tickets are still available here.

Saturday afternoon in downtown the party really heats up with the Brewers Guild Festival, featuring more than 100 critically-acclaimed beers and virtually every local brewery from the greater San Diego region. Brewers will be on-hand to discuss their products while live music flows through the throngs of revelers. Unique food-beer pairings are another highlight of this annual spectacle of the senses. For $35, you get 20 tastings between the hours of 1-5PM, and of course you get to take home a commemorative glass as a keepsake. Get your tickets here.

Last–but certainly not least–is an event that I can really sink my teeth into: the Green Flash Brunch at Urge Gastropub (16761 Bernardo Center Drive). Wrapping up a wet-hopped weekend of wort, this $45 dollar 5-course meal pairs each sensational dish alongside a special release from San Diego’s award-winning Green Flash Brewing Company. Tickets and a full menu are available here. And while everything looks delicious, I anxiously await the opportunity to taste the limited-release Serrano Double Stout, brewed with spicy, robust serrano chilis.

San Diego is always a warm and inviting place to kick back and relax for a few days. But this upcoming weekend promises to be an epicurean delight of especially epic proportions. For a full list of all the events, or to join their mailing list, be sure to check out San Diego Beer Week 2012′s Official Website.

Photo by Eric Martin