Bacchus Uncorked: Ancient Beer at the Getty Villa

Beer is older than most of the things we think of as civilization, and on Saturday, October 10, 2026, the Getty Villa is pouring it. Bacchus Uncorked: Beer in Ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt pairs two scholars with a themed tasting, and it earns a spot among the more unusual LA food festivals and tastings this fall, even though it's a seated evening rather than a crowd.

When: Saturday, October 10, 2026, 5:15 to 8:30 PM Where: Getty Villa, Villa Auditorium and Café Terrace Price: $110 Age: 21 and over

What to Expect

The world's first great beer cultures emerged more than 5,000 years ago along the Tigris, Euphrates and Nile. In both Mesopotamia and Egypt, beer was a daily staple and a drink for special occasions, and brewers, scribes and artists left plenty of evidence behind.

The program starts with archaeologist Tate Paulette, who draws on that evidence and describes his own attempts to recreate ancient beer. He is then joined by classicist and beer historian Travis Rupp, who walks through the flavor profiles of the earliest brewing traditions and introduces the evening's modern brews, each inspired by ancient practice.

After the talks, guests head to the Villa's Café Terrace for the tasting itself: the thematic beer selection, hearty appetizers and conversation. Non-alcoholic beverages are provided too, so a non-drinker can still sit in on the history.

Tickets and Practical Info

Tickets are $110 and must be bought in advance for entry. They are non-refundable, and capacity is limited. Your ticket also serves as your Villa entrance reservation, so there's no separate booking. Parking costs extra, so budget for it. Tate Paulette's book In the Land of Ninkasi: A History of Beer in Ancient Mesopotamia will be on sale in the Museum Store before the program begins, which is handy if the talk sends you down a rabbit hole.

The Villa sits on the coast in Pacific Palisades, a good distance from most of the city, so plan your drive with extra time on a Saturday evening. If you're pulling together things to do in Los Angeles this weekend, this one suits a date night, a history-minded friend group, or anyone who has ever wondered what Sumerians were actually drinking through those long straws.

Why It's Worth It

Most tasting events ask you to sip and nod. This one gives you the story behind the glass, from the people who study it, in a setting built to evoke a Roman country house. Expect a curious, relaxed crowd rather than a loud one. Because capacity is limited, don't wait long if you want in.

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