By Ray Stout
Executive director of the Illinois Craft Brewers Guild

Get ready for an unforgettable experience at this year’s Festival of Wood and Barrel-Aged Beer (a.k.a. FoBAB), where the finest in wood and barrel-aged brews will take center stage Nov. 22-23. This spectacular event will showcase a handpicked selection of barrel-aged beers, ciders, meads and perries from hundreds of the most esteemed craft breweries across the nation. It’s your golden opportunity to savor an extraordinary array of flavors and styles that are truly one-of-a-kind.

At FoBAB, each libation has been carefully aged in a variety of wooden barrels, infusing them with distinctive and intricate flavors that are beyond compare. From the rich, deep notes of bourbon-soaked oak to the delicate hints of wine casks, every drink promises a unique tasting adventure. A panel of esteemed judges will be on hand to assess these remarkable entries, awarding gold, silver and bronze medals, alongside the prestigious “Best in Show” accolade in 13 diverse style categories. The competition is fierce, and the rewards are coveted.

From the rich, deep notes of bourbon-soaked oak to the delicate hints of wine casks, every drink promises a unique tasting adventure.

This year, FoBAB is inviting attendees to step into the judging seat by nominating their “Fan Favorite” FoBAB pour. Attendees can nominate on Facebook, Instagram or X by sharing the name and photo of their favorite beer, tagging @FoBAB and including #FoBABFanFav. Nominations will be open through 2 p.m. CST during Session 2, and the Fan Favorite Award will be announced at the end of the FoBAB award ceremony on Saturday.

How to join the fun

No matter if you’re a die-hard beer aficionado or just beginning to explore the world of barrel-aged beverages, FoBAB has something for everyone. Secure your tickets for one of the two exclusive tasting sessions happening on Friday, November 22 (6-10 p.m.), and Saturday, November 23 (1-5 p.m.), at the UIC Credit Union 1 Arena in Chicago. General admission tickets to FoBAB are $85 plus processing and are on sale now at FoBAB.com.

New this year, FoBAB is inviting attendees to step into the judging seat by nominating their “Fan Favorite” FoBAB pour via social media.

New this year, attendees will have the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets to SKIP THE LINE and be named the ULTIMATE FoBAB VIP. Five winners each session (plus a friend) will get a special badge to skip any line throughout the festival (just can’t hit the same line back-to-back). One grand prize winner each session (and a friend) will be named Ultimate FoBAB VIP for an experience that includes one-hour early entry to the festival, a skip-the-line badge, and access to the Brewers and Sponsors Lounges, which are stocked with beer and catered food.

Raffle tickets are $5 each and can be purchased with tickets through November 15, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. Winners will be randomly selected and notified the week of the festival.

Don’t miss out on this chance to be part of an extraordinary celebration of beer culture.

Making a difference

What makes FoBAB even more remarkable is its commitment to a noble cause. All proceeds from the event benefit the Illinois Craft Brewers Guild (ICBG), a non-profit organization that serves as the unified voice for Illinois brewers.

Since its inception in 1997, the ICBG has been tirelessly advocating for craft beer, promoting education, and working to update and improve beer laws. By attending FoBAB, you’re not just indulging in exceptional brews — you’re also supporting the growth and advancement of the craft brewing community throughout Illinois.

Get ready to raise your glass and celebrate craft beer like never before at FoBAB 2024!