Lager, ale, malt or beer: By whatever name, it is the beverage that inspired Plato to pronounce, "He was a wise man who invented beer."

The second annual Festival of Beers brings that wisdom to Moore County with some of the best breweries in the nation on Saturday, May 14. Back by popular demand, the festival highlights both local breweries and major distributors. Breweries are offering diverse samplings that beer experts and novices alike can appreciate. Sharing the spotlight are local restaurants and live bands.

"Last year, people in their 20s bonded with people in their 70s over their shared appreciation of good entertainment and beer," says Patrick Coughlin, president and CEO of the Moore County Chamber of Commerce, the event's host. "We want to bring the community together again this year with the Festival of Beers."

New this year is a home brew demonstration for budding beer makers. Mike Ratkowski, owner and brewmaster of Railhouse Brewery, in Aberdeen, says home brewing is a great hobby.

"Lots of beer drinkers discover they appreciate the layers of flavor in their favorite drink after experimenting at home," he says. "Another advantage to home brewing is that it's a good hobby for busy people."

All guests at the Festival of Beers receive a commemorative pilsner glass. Fun is the agenda with safety as top priority; a designated driver and taxi booth ensures the wellbeing of all guests.

The Festival of Beers is at the Southern Pines Elks Lodge from 3 to 7 p.m. Saturday, May 14. Tickets are $20 in advance (available at the Moore County Chamber of Commerce or online at www.moorecountychamber.com) and $25 at the door.

Because last year's Festival of Beers sold out in advance, the Chamber urges advance ticket purchase. Sponsorship opportunities are still available for this crowd-pleasing event that drew almost 300 people last year.

Contact Danaka Bunch at (910) 692-3926 for more information.