Return of the Jersey hops: A guide to the 2015 Atlantic City Beer and Music Festival

A.C. isn't only worth a trip to the casinos during off season. Beginning Friday, March 20 through Saturday, March 21, the Atlantic City Beer and Music Festival returns to the Convention Center (One Convention Blvd.) for two days of jams, hops and entertainment.

Here are some highlights:

The Booze!
This is the main reason you're going, right? From ciders, to lagers, the fest has you covered. Here are some worth noting: Founders, Cape May Brewing, Dogfish Head, Original Sin, and Carlsberg.

For your ears
While you and your pals enjoy beer samples, bands will be performing all week long. A few to catch: Taking Back Sunday on Friday at 8 p.m., Lucero on Saturday at noon, and Everclear at 8 p.m. on Saturday.

Treat yo' self
Don't drink on an empty stomach. Tons of food vendors are onsite this weekend to keep your belly happy. Want some crab fries? Chickie's & Pete's has the remedy. Phillip's will satisfy your seafood cravings. Or, just go simple with pizza shop options from Atlantic City's renowned Toney Baloney's.

Check this out
Take a break from the beers and enjoy some live entertainment. Treat your eyes to live sand sculpting by Matt Diebert, dance in a whole new way at Haven Nightclub's Silent Disco, or take notes on home brewing with the love2brew crew.

Get competitive
Interact with friends and strangers by joining in on some fun activities and games. Think you can rodeo the best? Try your luck with a mechanical bull. Dunk tanks are always fun when you're not the one in the water; grab a ball and go for the target. If you have a beard, show it off! Each session will host a Beard and Mustache Competition to honor those in who are lucky enough to grow facial hair.

Vendors
Take homes for foodies are in no short supply. From pickles, chocolate-covered bacon, and sports memorabilia, you're sure to leave the festival with something.

Session times
Entry times are as follows: Friday, March 20 from 8 p.m. to midnight, Saturday, March 21 from noon to 4 p.m., and 6 to 10 p.m.

For more Things to Do, check out our calendar for the most up-to-date happenings.