The former Enumclaw Oktoberfest underwent a name change this year to go along with the many other evolutionary steps it has taken. Now, the inaugural Enumclaw Brew Fest aims to be an essential experience for first-time tasters and beer connoisseurs alike, said event coordinator Joanne Young.

Brew Fest is a 21-and-over event planned for noon to midnight Saturday at the Enumclaw Expo Center exhibition hall.

The transition from Oktoberfest to Brew Fest occurred for a variety of reasons but the biggest issue was scheduling conflicts, Young said. It was difficult to plan the event in October because coordinators didn’t want to interfere with Halloween and Enumclaw High’s homecoming.

“We’re setting this (event) up to be a safe place for adults in the community to come and have fun,” Young said. “This is a one-day event, from noon to midnight, so people can show up whenever is most convenient for them. Everyone is gearing up for the holidays. This is a way to get out for a few hours with your friends and really enjoy it.”

Schafer’s Bar and Grill in Sumner coordinated the brews to be offered. More than two dozen selections will be available, many of which come from Northwest breweries. Games like beer pong will be played all day, with prizes to be awarded as the games progress to tournaments.

Attendees can also enjoy a selection of food and live entertainment. UC7 — a classic rock, R&B and funk band from Seattle — will keep the party going.

Admission is $10 and include two taste vouchers, a $5 discount from previous years. Additional taste vouchers are available for $1 each. Designated drivers are offered half-price admission, which includes two Crater Lake root beer tastes.

Brew Fest attendees coming from afar, or even locals who don’t have a designated driver, are offered reduced lodging rates at the Expo Center campground. Picnic tables and utility hookups are available at the rate of $20 per night but there are only 28 spots available so call quickly to reserve one, Young said.

Those interested in free admission are encouraged to consider volunteering. Each volunteer will receive two free admission tickets and vouchers in exchange for 3.5 hours of either manning the ticket booth or running games. Volunteers are not allowed to drink before or during their shift, so tickets must be used after their time volunteering is complete.

For more information, visit www.enumclawbrewfest.com.