- April 25, 2024
-
-
Loading
Loading
Which Beatle was in the front of the line on the Abbey Road album cover? Was that sticky gray fix-all originally called duck tape? Or was it duct tape? What was Vincent van Gogh's brother's name?
Everyone has at least a little bit of useless information compartmentalized somewhere in their brain, so at least make an attempt to rationalize it by cleaning up at one of Sarasota's many trivia nights. Not sure where to start? Let This Week in Sarasota be your guide. We've picked a few of the most well known trivia nights around town to get your gears turning. Sorry '” you're on your own when it comes to team names.
When and where: The Landings '“ Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m., Thursdays at 9:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 8:30 p.m. / 4870 S Tamiami Trail / 923-8896
Hillview '“ Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. / 1900 Hillview St. / 953-2929
Palmer Crossing '“ Mondays at 7:30 p.m. / 5585 Palmer Crossing Circle / 923-6061
Cost: Free
Prize: First place - $50 gift card; Second place - $30 gift card; Third place - $15 gift card
About: Catch this popular trivia night at several locations. Format consists of four three-category rounds with moderate difficulty questions and a broad variety of topics. Occasional drink specials accompany the night, as well as the regular two-for-one happy hour special. This is one of Sarasota's most popular trivia nights, likely because of its it appeal to players of all ages and skill levels.
When and where: Wednesdays at 7 p.m. / 2831 N Tamiami Trail / 487-7373
Cost: Free to play and free pizza
Prize: Prizes for first, second and third place. Varies, but includes gift cards and/or beer
About: Go head to head with area scholars at one of Sarasota's more challenging trivia nights. The bar's popularity among Ringling and New College students attracts some pretty stiff competition, and although the questions cover a wide range of topics, staff does recommend having a brainiac on the team, as the questions are a bit more "obscure and esoteric." Don't feel bad if you can't keep up with all the Will Huntings in attendance, though; there's always free Hungry Howie's pizza as consolation. Also, don't think about using your iGadget to get an edge '” Growler's "relies heavily on public shaming," to keep cheaters at bay.
When and where: Thursdays at 8 p.m. / 2645 Mall Drive / 343-2854
Cost: Free
Prize: In-game beer giveaways, prizes for first and second place, including gift cards, cases of beer and beer swag, and a gag gift for last place.
About: As is to be expected from Beery's, this is the everyman's trivia night. Director of Hop-erations, Scooter Maloney, serves up 10 rounds of medium-difficulty questions, covering a variety of topics. Atmosphere is relaxed, with a traditional point-wagering style of play. Funny or creative team names can earn you free beer, and bonus points are available for empty beer cans consumed during the game.
When and where: Wednesdays at 8 p.m. / 975 Cattlemen Road / 363-1262
Cost: Free
Prize: Varies weekly
About: Set your phasers to stun '” this weekly trivia night has a recurring sci-fi and fantasy theme sure to satisfy all brands of nerdy. Past themes have included Star Trek, Lord of the Rings and The Princess Bride. So, assemble a crew; choose from a huge selection of beer; live long; prosper, etc. Also, this is a perfect opportunity to organically use the phrase, "Talk nerdy to me."
When and where: Tuesdays at 7:30 / 8110 Lakewood Main Street, Lakewood Ranch / 359-2424
Cost: Free
Prize: First place - $50 gift card; Second place - $25 gift card; Third place - $15 gift card
About: For the more competitive trivia connoisseur, try MacAllister's Grill and Tavern. Play consists of 10 rounds of questions, spanning a broad variety of topics in a point-wagering style of play. Bring your game face '” this pub hosts a handful of regular teams, so you'll have to work for your prizes.
When and where: Wednesdays at 8 p.m. / 8217 Tourist Center Dr. / 306-5868
Cost: Free
Prize: First place - $30 gift card; Second place - $20 gift card; Third place - $10 gift card
About: Another good choice for the competitive player with a discerning taste in beer. This night features two hour-long games with moderately challenging questions and a huge selection of beer. Earn a free Casa de Pizza pizza by answering a bonus question, and Wednesdays are also W.O.B. U night, which means professors or students with a valid college I.D. get half off most drafts from 9 p.m. until close.
