Event: Seattle: Hosted by Ivar's Acres of Clams the "Ivar's Northwest Winter Beer Tasting" returns December 8th.

With the temperatures dipping into the 20's (before bouncing back into a cool 30+), now might be a good time to consider a trip downtown tonight.  Located along Seattle's historic waterfront, Ivar's Acres of Clams restaurant brings back their "Northwest Winter Beer Tasting" for another year.

To the inexperienced, the "Winter Beer Tasting" is an opportunity to learn more about the hidden art of pairing beer with food. Despite its name, beer is just as versatile (if not more so) than other holiday libations. Plus at $40, this is a great opportunity to pair local beers (from celebrates breweries) with foods from local artisans.

With doors opening at 6 pm and concluding at 8:45 pm, you don't want to be late for this event.

But in case you're still trying to decide we listed the breweries and food recipes that will be paired at this year's event.

Breweries (plus a few last minute additions yet to be announced)

• Georgetown Brewing [Seattle, Georgetown] 
• Maritime Pacific Brewing [Seattle, Ballard] 
• Silver City Brewing [Bremerton] 
• Pyramid Breweries [Seattle, SoDo] 
• Black Raven Brewing [Redmond] 
• Hale's Ales [Seattle, Fremont] 
• Redhook Brewery[Woodinville] 
• Fremont Brewing [Seattle, Fremont]

Bites (aka, food) (subject to change)

• House smoked bacon wrapped figs
• Uli's sausage puff pastries
• Honey and sriracha glazed prawn skewers
• Stout braised pork belly
• Smoked salmon
• Roasted shitake mushrooms
• Brandy caramel apple tartlet

Tickets are on sale via Brown Paper Tickets with the event being held at Ivar's "Ivar's Acres of  Clams" restaurant at 1001 Alaskan Way in Seattle. For more information call (206) 624-6852 or email the manager at u001@keepclam.com.or visit Pier 54, at 1001 Alaskan Way Sout in Seattle.