The 27th annual Specialty Coffee Association of America Exposition starts today and runs through Sunday, April 12, at the Washington State Convention Center downtown. A few events have already begun, but the opening ceremonies at seven tonight kick off the main program for the next three days.
The local coffeehouse tours are sold out, but other highlights include a Java Jog (5K and 10K options) tomorrow morning to raise funds for female coffee producers in Ethiopia, lectures by field experts, an exhibit hall with coffee connoisseur products from over 450 businesses, and entry into the World Barista Championship Arena. In the last, 50 java masters from different countries compete a title, each preparing four espressos, four cappuccinos, and four original signature drinks "to exacting standards in a 15-minute performance set to music," according to the event website.
Passes for the whole package range between $150 and $345 for one to three days. Pop-up stands from MmmHmm Coffee, Caffe D’Arte and more are also on hand to ensure visitors (of course) stay caffeinated.