You may have noticed that I frequently write about the burgeoning craft beer scene in the South Bay; more specifically the influx of craft breweries coming to Torrance. Believe me; it is wonderful; especially since each of our breweries is so much different than the other. They may all be brewing beers, but their styles could not be more different from each other. Those of us that live in or around the South Bay know how good we have it and now Discover Torrance Visitors Bureau has set up a convenient way for you to experience it yourself.

“Shop, Hops & Slumber Fest,” a holiday campaign spearheaded by Discover Torrance Visitors Bureau has decided to take advantage of the craft beer craze in Torrance by combining our numerous tasting rooms with the ability to shop at the fifth largest shopping mall in the country and providing numerous locations for you to relax and get some sleep before doing it again the next day. The concept is pretty simple.

Book a room during the promotion which runs from November 4, 2013 through January 6, 2014 and automatically receive a “Shop, Hop & Slumber Fest” kit that includes a shopping tote for trips to the Del Amo Fashion Center, a beer mug and a sleep kit with eye mask, ear plugs and more. Participating hotels are offering special rates and added value to make an overnight shopping stay a no-brainer. I was looking through some of the hotel rates and I would have no problem referring a friend to any of these locations and the prices were very reasonable.

As far as the hops portion of this deal, Torrance is home to Strand Brewing Company, Monkish Brewing Company, Smog City Brewing and the Red Car Brewpub. LA Beer Hop is participating with a discount special of $20 off. If you spend a night or two, I would suggest reviewing my South Bay Beer Guide of local breweries, brewpubs and gastropubs and make it a very special visit.

The program also includes an enter to win a $1,000 shopping spree, two nights’ accommodations, beer tasting and dinner at Red Car Brewery & Restaurant and two free passes for an LA Beer Hop tour in Torrance. This sweepstakes is open to anyone to enter online via the Discover Torrance Facebook page. To book a room or enter the contest, visit ShopHopsSlumber.com. This is really a great opportunity for those that have wanted to explore the South Bay’s craft beer scene without having to drive home. Truth be told, this would be a pretty cool Christmas present for the craft beer person in your home. Cheers!