Minneapolis Grown-Up Spelling Bee

A spelling bee probably doesn't sound like the most fun way to spend a Saturday, but this isn't like the one you bombed in fifth grade when you couldn't spell "onomatopoeia." Instead of an "everyone's a winner" ribbon and polite applause, participants will have a chance to win free beer and high-five friendly binge drinkers at the bar. Plus, registration is actually a pretty good deal: Once participants buy in, they will receive a pint of beer for every word spelled correctly. Meaning, if you make it to round two you will have to down another pint before spelling again in round three. Enunciation is rarely a drunkard's strength, so keep that in mind. Special rounds include the lightning round, where time is of the essence; the emergency round, where previously disqualified spellers can spell for re-entrance; and the infamous underpants round, which is exactly what it sounds like (don't worry, though—it's optional, and kept to a rating of PG-13). Can't hold your liquor? According to the rules, vomiting does not disqualify you (though it is certainly unsportsmanlike). Spectators are welcome to heckle between rounds and spellings. 21+. (Photo by AMagill)
Sat., Jan. 16, 7 p.m., 2010