Denver Beer Fest, 25 years of Paris on the Platte and more on this week's culinary calendar

We know: You're all wrapped up in planning your GABF debauchery festivities. Well, we're here to help! Below, find a selection of pre-GABF events, plus a beer-versus-wine dinner, cooking demonstrations and much more. Here's a taste of what's ahead:

Monday, September 19:

Vesta Dipping Grill offers its Menu Classic Mondays: Three-course meals for two for only $52.80, based on the Vesta cookbook. The menu will change monthly; call 303-296-1970 or visit www.vestagrill.com.

The Kitchen, 1039 Pearl Street in Boulder, hosts the Monday Night Community Dinner, a four-course, family-style dinner; a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Growe Foundation's mission of placing organic gardens in Boulder schools. It starts at 7 p.m. and costs $35; reservations are required and must be made by noon the day of the dinner. Call 303-544-5973 or visit www.thekitchencafe.com.

Interstate Kitchen & Bar, 901 West 10th Avenue, presents the Rock 'n' Roll Spelling Bee, where you can eat, drink and win prizes starting at 9 p.m. Call 720-479-8829 or visit www.interstaterestaurant.com.

Olivea (719 East 17th Avenue, 303-861-5050) and Duo (2413 West 32nd Avenue, 303-477-4141) present Meatless Mondays, offering vegetarian specials every Monday.

Mateo, 1837 Pearl Street in Boulder, offers Mussel Mondays all summer: Get one pound of mussels for $6 and frites for an additional $2, half off the regular menu price. Call 303-442-7766 or visit www.mateorestaurant.com.