Whether or not you’re familiar with his work, craft beer fans and homebrewers alike should take a moment today to raise a toast to Michael Jackson, the English writer who would have turned 72 today.

Mr. Jackson’s books on beer and his frequent appearances around the world kept alive a passion for great beer that had been shrinking for decades.  His television show in the early 1990s, “The Beer Hunter,” is credited with helping to change the course of craft brewing and elevate it to the level we enjoy today.

During Missoula Craft Beer Week you’ll have a chance to celebrate the life and influence of Michael Jackson with a free screening of Beer Hunter The Movie, a documentary released in 2013.

The Top Hat Lounge, Bitter Root Brewing Co., and Missoula Craft Beer Week have teamed up to provide beer lovers a great evening of entertainment.  In addition to the movie screening, Bitter Root Brewing will be doing a mini-tap takeover with beers usually only available at the brewery in Hamilton.

Come sample some of Bitter Root’s fantastic seasonals, take in a movie about one of the most influential figures in craft beer history, and enjoy the Top Hat Lounge’s flavorful tapas menu all at the same time.

The event takes place Monday, April 28 at 8:00 p.m.  The Top Hat Lounge is at 134 W. Front Street in downtown Missoula.