The littlest big beer festival in the world – or at least in Portland – is slated for Monday, May 10, Fred’s actual 84th birthday. Tickets go on sale immediately at the official Web site: http://www.fredfestpdx.com

What started as a surprise 80th birthday party for world-renowned beer writer Fred Eckhardt grows each year and has become a significant fundraiser for the charity of Eckhardt’s choice. Now in its fifth year, this year’s proceeds will go toward finding a cure for juvenile diabetes.

In a quest to answer the timeless question: “What Would Fred Drink?” lucky Fred fans will gather at the NEW Hair of the Dog brewery and tasting room, 61 Yamhill Street in southeast Portland the evening of May 10, from 6 to 10 p.m. They will be treated not only to a rare assortment of hand-selected beers, but also light fare and a birthday cake — complete with a round of “Happy Birthday” — for Fred. Cheeses, chocolate, candy and even cereal will be offered in abundance so attendees can experience some of Fred’s famed beer-and-food pairings.

At the FredFest, there will be a silent auction at the event featuring bottles of rare beers. And a worldwide online auction of rare beers and vertical flights will be held the same weekend, allowing Fred fans across the globe to be a part of Fred’s birthday and the FredFest celebration and fundraiser – even if they can’t actually attend the FredFest event.

Cost for FredFest is $50 in advance and includes a souvenir glass, free ticket for a raffle of bottled specialty beers and four hours of sampling, sipping and story-telling with Fred. Tickets are limited and they are going fast (they’ve sold out every year to date), so get your tickets before it’s too late at http://www.FredFestPDX.com and also at http://www.FredFestPDX.net