Every winter Varsity Grill in Tacoma hosts an Ice Block Party. It's on the patio. Get it!?! No, but seriously, you'll want to take note because this annual event offers beer lovers the chance at beer in all degrees of wintery awesomeness: the $20 fee gets you nine winter beer tastings from some of the region's top winter brews, as well as access to the appetizer buffet.

Plus there'll be prizes and giveaways.

Plus beer experts and brewers will be all up in the house.

Plus Rock-Bot live-band karaoke will be there to rock your face off after it's all over.

"New this year is a VIP list," says Razhida Pope, general manager at the Varsity Grill. "For those who RSVP, they'll receive a cool gift bag with pint glasses, swag and more. Also, our beer club members only have to pay $15."

And yes, wussy, tents and outdoor heaters will be provided.

VARSITY GRILL, 5:30-9 P.M., $20, ROCK-BOT LIVE BAND KARAOKE, 8 P.M. TO CLOSE, 1114 BROADWAY, TACOMA, 253.627.1229