Hammer Of Glory Is Passed Through City Before Opening Tap For Philly Beer Week

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A 13-hour zany relay to usher in the opening tap for Philadelphia's beer week kicked off throughout the city on Friday.

There is an oath administered at each leg of the relay as one group hands off the Hammer of Glory or hog to the other.

"The omnipotent symbol of our beloved Philly beer week," one participant told KYW Newsradio. "May your journey be safe. Work up a thirst, for there shall be a beer waiting for you at your destination, Godspeed."

The hog was handed over to a group dressed as cowboys from Blazing Saddles on animal pool noodles.

"We got a tortes, a dolphin, yeah its going to be really fun," another man said while riding a pink flamingo from the Kite and Key over to the London Grill.

10 days of beer tastings and parties starts throughout the city tonight. Mayor Kenney and brewing legend Joe Ortlieb are expected to take part in opening ceremonies.

In:
• Philadelphia