It’s officially that time of year to look forward to the tapping of the kegs — and your wallet.

The Great American Beer Fest officially opened ticket sales Thursday for this year’s event, happening from 12-4 p.m. on Oct. 10 and 11 at Denver’s Levitt Pavilion, according to a Thursday news release from the organization.

The 40-year-old Denver tradition is changing its longtime format of two evening sessions, with a Brewers session Saturday to coincide with contest judging day, at the Colorado Convention Center.

It’s the first time the fest is moving outdoors. While festival organizers are calling it a “glow up,” many questions remain about the new venue in city park Ruby Hill in the middle of the Harvey Park neighborhood.

Organizers are urging festivalgoers to use rideshares, a downtown shuttle (for an extra $21.48), public transportation or — as a last resort — drive (designated driver tickets are $29).

“We do not recommend driving to GABF if you plan to consume alcohol,” according to the press release. “Instead, take a rideshare, public transit or a shuttle. If you do choose to drive, there is limited parking within the park and along neighborhood streets that is first come, first served.”

As far as public transportation, GABF officials suggest Regional Transportation District shuttles or buses. It won’t be like stepping off the light rail at the Theater District stop and walking straight into the Convention Center, though. The RTD Evans Station is more than a mile and 30+ minute walk, according to Google. The RTD Broadway/I-25 Station is 1.7 miles away.

Last year, Lafayette’s own Westbound & Down Brewing Co. took home six medals, the most of any of the 1,500 individual competitors from all 50 states and Washington, D.C. The brewery was also one of three different Colorado organizations to win the Brewery and Brewer of the Year award in their respective production categories.

As always, the festival will also feature live music, food trucks and, most importantly, the competition’s awards ceremony on the second, and final day, according to the release. Those looking for more will also be able to partake in the PAIRED experience, where they’ll be able to match chef-crafted bites with their brews.

Single-day tickets start at $60 per person, with shuttle service and all-in add-ons available for an additional charge.

More information can be found at www.greatamericanbeerfestival.com