I’ve mentioned that the idea of a beer garden in Pere Marquette Park is brewing.  Today, we got word that it’s on tap and set to flow on June 21 from 5 to 9 p.m.

The Westown Association and Old German Beer Hall, 1009 N. Old World 3rd St., will organize the event that features a traditional Munich-style beer garden setting, complete with tables, live music from the Brewhaus Polka Kings and the official beer garden beer of Munich, Hofbräu Sommer Bier.

Sommer Bier or Summer Beer is an unfiltered lager, commonly enjoyed in beer gardens of Munich's Englische Garten – similar to New York's Central Park.

To celebrate the event, on the official first day of summer, Milwaukee County Parks Director Sue Black will be on hand to tap a keg of Sommer Bier. Additional beer varieties will be available for purchase.

"It’s long overdue for Milwaukee to reclaim this great tradition," said Hans Weissgerber III, managing director of Old German Beer Hall. "Beer gardens offer an opportunity for people from all walks of life to relax and enjoy a beer in a beautiful park setting with friends and family."

In keeping with German traditions, attendees are encouraged to bring their own snacks. You must be to 21 to attend, and if you’re man or woman enough be sure to register for the "Masskrugstemmen" (loosely translates into the lifting of a liter mug of beer) at 6:30 p.m.  Hold the giant stein parallel to the floor the longest and you’ll quality for the finals and a chance to win a trip to New York City to compete for the U.S. Championship.