Elysian’s New Georgetown Taproom Throws Grand Opening Party

MUST SIP
Elysian Airport Way Brewery Taproom Grand Opening
(11/9) Even after its sale to Anheuser-Busch InBev, Seattle’s onetime local darlings continue to expand their hometown presence. While some beer nerds still hold a grudge, one thing is certain: Elysian still makes great beer. The beery bigshots finally get around to christening their Georgetown taproom, which opened in late August, with a grand opening party featuring $2 pints and free food from Syd Suntha of Bread & Circuses, plus music from KEXP’s DJ Sharlese. The new taproom, Elysian’s fifth such pub/taproom around town, boasts 20 taps and pups and kiddos are welcome. 5-9 p.m., 5410 Airport Way S; 206.860.3977, elysianbrewing.com

MUST SALUTE
Veterans Day Parade
(11/11) In its 52nd year, Auburn’s Veterans Day parade is one of the largest in the country, gathering more than 6,000 participants in honor of active and veteran military personnel. Festivities include a remembrance ceremony at Veteran’s Memorial Park and a marching band competition featuring more than 30 high school bands. 11 a.m. Free. Auburn, E Main St.; 253.931.3043; auburnwa.gov

MUST HIT THE PARKS
National Parks Free Weekend
(11/11-11/12) Those willing to brave the chill and snowy trails can save some cash visiting Washington’s National Parks this weekend. In honor of Veteran’s Day, the parks are waiving their entrance fees Saturday and Sunday. Seattleites trekking down to Mount Rainier National Park for a weekend reprieve might consider hitting these hotspots along the way. Locations vary. Free. nps.gov

MUST SAVOR
Northwest Chocolate Festival
(11/11–11/12) Indulge your sweet tooth with decadent bites from some 100 exhibitors, including local favorites Fran’s Chocolates, Hot Cakes and Indi Chocolate, at this festival, which caps off Northwest Chocolate Week and includes tastings, culinary demonstrations and more. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Prices vary. Interbay, Pier 91, Smith Cove Cruise Terminal, 2001 W Garfield St.; 206.441.5009; nwchocolate.com

MUST EAT
The Best Chefs You’ve Never Heard Of
(11/12) What a great idea: Ethan Stowell and Goldfinch Tavern chef Joe Ritchie are hosting a ticketed event designed to shed light on the incredibly talented chefs that aren’t quite household names. Eight chefs—Sony Bato (Marination Ma Kai), Jeremy Arnold (Hitchcock), Mitch Mayers (Lark Seattle), Jason Melton (Four Seasons Hotel Seattle), Tyson Wardwell (Salare), Sadie White (Tavolata), Alexus Williams (Navy Strength) and Christopher Coker (Adana Restaurant)—will each prepare a dish, and guests will vote on their favorite. 6 p.m., $75, Four Seasons Hotel Seattle, 99 Union St.; tickets available here.