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  • Illinois Brewing Insider Brian Noonan, host of the Crafty Brewers podcast

  • Inside Scoop: Phase Three and Pollyanna expanding to Chicago, Will Run for Beer 5K Oct. 24, Streetz Artz Alliance shows, FoBAB Nov. 13-14, Geneva Lights and Flights and more

  • Brewer’s Choice: Q&A with Joel Hatlin from Mickey Finn’s Brewery in Libertyville

  • Q&A with Pollyanna Brewing & Distilling’s co-founder, president and CEO Ryan Weidner on acquiring the former Alarmist Brewing space and expanding to Chicago’s NW side

  • Inside Scoop: Get ready to celebrate Oktoberfest with some of the state’s best craft breweries

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Home›Inside Scoop›Inside Scoop: Events like The Berghoff’s Oktoberfest, Berwyn Brewfest, Streetz Artz Alliance markets, Gurnee Legions of Craft Beer Festival, Will Run for Beer Chicago 5K, and Geneva’s Lights and Flights Craft Beer Fest

Inside Scoop: Events like The Berghoff’s Oktoberfest, Berwyn Brewfest, Streetz Artz Alliance markets, Gurnee Legions of Craft Beer Festival, Will Run for Beer Chicago 5K, and Geneva’s Lights and Flights Craft Beer Fest

By Trent Modglin
September 17, 2025
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The Berghoff and Adams Street Brewery celebrate Oktoberfest Sept. 11-Oct. 18

This iconic German restaurant, which dates back to 1898, hosts one of the longest, and certainly most authentic and fun, Oktoberfest celebrations anywhere in the Midwest. And did we mention The Berghoff happens to be home to the award-winning Adams Street Brewery? Running through Oct. 18 and featuring live music Thursday-Sunday and a full menu of traditional German fare and tasty brews (try their Marzen, Herman’s Dunkel or the Vienna lager) this party is not to be missed, regardless of whether you stop in after work or are playing tourist for a weekend. The gorgeous building that’s dripping in history only adds to the charm. 17 W. Adams Street in Chicago. TheBerghoff.com

Berwyn Brewfest Sept. 27

Raise a glass at Berwyn Brewfest on Saturday, Sept. 27 from 1-5 p.m. at scenic Proksa Park in Berwyn. This annual outdoor event features an impressive lineup of local and regional craft breweries pouring unique IPAs, lagers, stouts and seasonal specialties. Enjoy delicious food truck fare, play lawn games with friends, and vibe to live music from local bands throughout the afternoon. Whether you’re a craft beer connoisseur or just here for a good time, Brewfest offers something for everyone. Don’t miss this lively celebration of beer, music and community in the heart of Berwyn!

For more information, click here.

Streetz Artz Alliance upcoming shows

The Streetz Artz Alliance has a host of upcoming brewery markets. All are free to attend and family friendly. Follow Streetz Artz Alliance on Facebook for more information.

Sept 27, 2025 — Bushel of Apples Fall Fest (Lake Zurich, IL): 2-8 p.m. (subject to change). Live music, artisan market, fall festivities and more.

Oct 11, 2025 — Wolfden Brewing Oddities & Curiosities Market (Bloomingdale, IL): 12–5 p.m. Outdoor, rain or shine. Craft beer, kitchen, beer garden.

Oct 12, 2025 — Soundgrowler Brewing Oddities & Dark Arts Market (Tinley Park, IL): 5-10 p.m. (TBC). Indoor/outdoor. Tacos, kitchen, craft beer and non-alcoholic options.

Nov 8, 2025 — Soundgrowler Brewing Vinyl Market (Tinley Park, IL): 12–5 p.m. Tacos, kitchen, craft beer, non-alcoholic beverages.

Nov 15, 2025 — Imperial Oak Brewing Kris Kringle Market (Brookfield, IL): 12–5pm. Craft beer, Malört, non-alcoholic options. Food pop-up TBD.

Gurnee Legions of Craft Beer Fest — Oct. 4

The Gurnee American Legion Post 771 and the Friends of the Gurnee American Legion are excited to announce the return of the eighth annual Gurnee Legions of Craft Beer Festival. The group’s primary goal of this fest is to raise money for the Legion Post and various activities for local veterans and their families. The secondary goal is to showcase local breweries and present the great craft beer options Lake County and Northern Illinois have to offer. While there are many craft beer festivals in Illinois, what sets the Gurnee Legions of Craft Beer apart is that it directly benefits a veterans’ service organization. And you can’t beat that.

Date: Saturday, Oct. 4
Time: Noon-4 p.m.
Location: Gurnee American Legion Post 771
749 Milwaukee Ave. in north suburban Gurnee
Tickets and more info: GurneeLegionsOfBeer.com

Will Run for Beer Chicago 5K is Oct. 25

Raise a glass to fall miles and fresh brews! The third annual Will Run for Beer Chicago 5K is back in Lincoln Park on Oct. 25. Runners will take on a flat, scenic course along the crisp Chicago lakefront, then kick back at the ultimate autumn reward: a post-race brewfest! Participants (21+) can toast their finish with complimentary beer tastings, delicious eats and live music in a festive fall atmosphere. Every runner gets an exclusive Will Run For Beer Chicago long-sleeve shirt, finisher medal (that doubles as a bottle opener), tasting glass, race photos, full access to the brewfest and so much more. Not a runner? Brewfest-only tickets are available; come for the beer, stay for the vibe.

Spots are filling up fast, so register now for the best price on this beertastic fall tradition! More information is available at WillRunForBeer5K.com

Lights and Flights Craft Beer Fest in Geneva Dec. 13

Join the Geneva Park District for the very first Geneva Lights and Flights Craft Beer Fest, where the magic of the season meets the bold flavors of craft brewing. This one-of-a-kind winter celebration will light up your December with dazzling holiday lights, craft beer tastings and delicious food. Each guest will receive 15 sample pours along with a commemorative glass to take home.

VIP tickets gain access to the event one hour early and receive a commemorative pint glass. This festival is part of Winter Wonder Lights, a monthlong celebration at Peck Farm Park. Tickets on sale now: general admission $55, VIP $70, designated driver $15.

Saturday, Dec. 13 from 2-6 p.m.
Peck Farm Park, 4038 Kaneville Road in Geneva, IL
For tickets, click here

TagsAdams Street BreweryBerwyn BrewfestBushel of Apples Fall FestGurnee Legions of Craft BeerIllinois beer festsIllinois breweriesIllinois BrewingLights and Flights Fest GenevaSoundgrowler BrewingStreetz Artz AllianceThe BerghoffWill Run for Beer ChicagoWolfden Brewing
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About us

Sponsored by the Illinois Craft Brewers Guild, Illinois Brewing is printed and distributed quarterly (early January, April, July and October) to more than 250 breweries across the state as well as more than 100 craft beer-focused bars, restaurants and stores. Each member of the Illinois Craft Brewers Guild’s IMBIBE club also receives the magazine in the mail. 

Publisher/owner: Trent Modglin
Trent@IllinoisBrewing.com

Art director: Brian Hertel
Brian@IllinoisBrewing.com

Illinois Brewing's magazine, website and email newsletter are property of Venture Forth Media, LLC. All rights reserved. Copyright 2023.

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Stylish magazine, website and e-mail newsletter focused on the vibrant craft beer scene in Illinois. Sponsored by the Illinois Craft Brewers Guild

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Sep 25

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From our big fall issue...

Illinois Brewing Insider @briannoonan — host of the @craftybrewerspod — on the enjoyment of having @brothership_brewing and @black_horizon_brewing so close to home, the English pub ale at @pollyannabrewingcompany and Das Nuts at @imperialoakbrewing as well as the hidden gem in Homewood that is Lassen’s Tap, and discovering the laid-back @syndicatebrewingco in Colorado

“During their Oak-toberfest celebration (THIS WEEKEND!), Imperial Oak has a special tapping of Das Nuts, where they infuse their Das Boot Oktoberfest with toasted pecans, almonds, peanuts and macadamia nuts. If I could only drink one Oktoberfest beer, this would be it.”

Read the spotlight now at IllinoisBrewing.com

From our big fall issue...

Illinois Brewing Insider @briannoonan — host of the @craftybrewerspod — on the enjoyment of having @brothership_brewing and @black_horizon_brewing so close to home, the English pub ale at @pollyannabrewingcompany and Das Nuts at @imperialoakbrewing as well as the hidden gem in Homewood that is Lassen’s Tap, and discovering the laid-back @syndicatebrewingco in Colorado

“During their Oak-toberfest celebration (THIS WEEKEND!), Imperial Oak has a special tapping of Das Nuts, where they infuse their Das Boot Oktoberfest with toasted pecans, almonds, peanuts and macadamia nuts. If I could only drink one Oktoberfest beer, this would be it.”

Read the spotlight now at IllinoisBrewing.com

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Sep 24

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It’s a busy weekend for Oktoberfest events around the area, and plenty of fun is in the works at @chaosbrewclub in Chicago and @imperialoakbrewing in Willow Springs. 

Read all about these two popular festivals and more in our Oktoberfest Inside Scoop section from the new fall issue at IllinoisBrewing.com

It’s a busy weekend for Oktoberfest events around the area, and plenty of fun is in the works at @chaosbrewclub in Chicago and @imperialoakbrewing in Willow Springs.

Read all about these two popular festivals and more in our Oktoberfest Inside Scoop section from the new fall issue at IllinoisBrewing.com

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Sep 24

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Read the loaded Inside Scoop section from our new fall issue, which includes info on @phasethreebrew and @pollyannabrewingcompany expanding to Chicago, the @lgnsofcraftbeer in Gurnee Oct. 3, the @willrunforbeerchicago 5K on the lakefront Oct. 24, upcoming @streetzartzalliance shows at local breweries, the return of @fobab (aka the Festival of Wood & Barrel-Aged Beers) in Chicago Nov. 13-14, the @genevaparkdistrict Lights and Flights Craft Beer Festival Dec. 12, a handful of great brewery deals and more 

Read it all in the Inside Scoop section at IllinoisBrewing.com

Read the loaded Inside Scoop section from our new fall issue, which includes info on @phasethreebrew and @pollyannabrewingcompany expanding to Chicago, the @lgnsofcraftbeer in Gurnee Oct. 3, the @willrunforbeerchicago 5K on the lakefront Oct. 24, upcoming @streetzartzalliance shows at local breweries, the return of @fobab (aka the Festival of Wood & Barrel-Aged Beers) in Chicago Nov. 13-14, the @genevaparkdistrict Lights and Flights Craft Beer Festival Dec. 12, a handful of great brewery deals and more

Read it all in the Inside Scoop section at IllinoisBrewing.com

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Sep 22

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Did you know the historic @berghoffchicago restaurant  in the heart of the Loop celebrates Oktoberfest all the way through Oct. 18? Celebrate the season with classic German dishes, drink specials, beer brewed in-house by the award-winning @adamsstreetbrewery — as well as live music every Thursday through Sunday from 4:30–7:30 p.m. 17 W. Adams Street in Chicago. TheBerghoff.com

Did you know the historic @berghoffchicago restaurant in the heart of the Loop celebrates Oktoberfest all the way through Oct. 18? Celebrate the season with classic German dishes, drink specials, beer brewed in-house by the award-winning @adamsstreetbrewery — as well as live music every Thursday through Sunday from 4:30–7:30 p.m. 17 W. Adams Street in Chicago. TheBerghoff.com

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Sep 19

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When @destihlbrewery is pouring samples of six of their favorites at @wehavegreatbeerpr on a Friday night, it marks the start of a good weekend

When @destihlbrewery is pouring samples of six of their favorites at @wehavegreatbeerpr on a Friday night, it marks the start of a good weekend

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Sep 18

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The Oktoberfest fun continues across the state, with @sketchbookbrew in Skokie and Evanston and @goebberts_ Pumpkin Farm in Pingree Grove among the venues hosting some great craft-beer focused events this weekend. 

Check out our Inside Scoop from the new fall issue for details or read about all the fall events at IllinoisBrewing.com

The Oktoberfest fun continues across the state, with @sketchbookbrew in Skokie and Evanston and @goebberts_ Pumpkin Farm in Pingree Grove among the venues hosting some great craft-beer focused events this weekend.

Check out our Inside Scoop from the new fall issue for details or read about all the fall events at IllinoisBrewing.com

37 2

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Sep 14

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From our new fall issue...

Q&A with @pollyannabrewingcompany co-founder, president and CEO Ryan Weidner on acquiring the former @alarmistbrewing space and expanding (with a fifth location) to Chicago’s NW side

“One of our goals is to honor what made Alarmist special while ensuring the brand continues to thrive for both longtime supporters and new customers alike.” 

Read it all here: IllinoisBrewing.com

From our new fall issue...

Q&A with @pollyannabrewingcompany co-founder, president and CEO Ryan Weidner on acquiring the former @alarmistbrewing space and expanding (with a fifth location) to Chicago’s NW side

“One of our goals is to honor what made Alarmist special while ensuring the brand continues to thrive for both longtime supporters and new customers alike.”

Read it all here: IllinoisBrewing.com

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Sep 12

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Two of the biggest Oktoberfest celebrations are happening today at @revbrewchicago in Chicago and @doubleclutchbrewery in Evanston. Swing by on Saturday for plenty of festive fun (and fresh beer, of course). 

Read more about both of these events and much more in our Inside Scoop section of the new fall issue at IllinoisBrewing.com

Two of the biggest Oktoberfest celebrations are happening today at @revbrewchicago in Chicago and @doubleclutchbrewery in Evanston. Swing by on Saturday for plenty of festive fun (and fresh beer, of course).

Read more about both of these events and much more in our Inside Scoop section of the new fall issue at IllinoisBrewing.com

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Sep 11

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Location: North side of Chicago
Time: Friday evening, 4:54pm
Temp: 79 degrees
Attraction: The family-friendly patio at @halfacrebeer and the fresh shucked oysters and ceviche that @prairiemoonrestaurant is serving up at @spitefulbrewing 
And did we mention the cold beer? Yeah, that too.

Location: North side of Chicago
Time: Friday evening, 4:54pm
Temp: 79 degrees
Attraction: The family-friendly patio at @halfacrebeer and the fresh shucked oysters and ceviche that @prairiemoonrestaurant is serving up at @spitefulbrewing
And did we mention the cold beer? Yeah, that too.

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Sep 11

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Our big fall issue came out earlier this week and is loaded down with Oktoberfest events, insider opinions, info on @pollyannabrewingcompany and @phasethreebrew expanding to Chicago, brewery spotlights on @whiteoakbrewing @printersrowbrewing and those that call Naperville & Aurora home like @hopvinebrewingcompany @solemnoathbeer @noonwhistlebrewing and @blindcornerbeer as well as plenty of upcoming events, favorite summer craft beer experiences, and much, much more. Check out your local brewery or bottle shop for a copy or read it digitally at IllinoisBrewing.com

Our big fall issue came out earlier this week and is loaded down with Oktoberfest events, insider opinions, info on @pollyannabrewingcompany and @phasethreebrew expanding to Chicago, brewery spotlights on @whiteoakbrewing @printersrowbrewing and those that call Naperville & Aurora home like @hopvinebrewingcompany @solemnoathbeer @noonwhistlebrewing and @blindcornerbeer as well as plenty of upcoming events, favorite summer craft beer experiences, and much, much more. Check out your local brewery or bottle shop for a copy or read it digitally at IllinoisBrewing.com

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Sep 10

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The Oktoberfest fun begins at the @imperialoakbrewing Brookfield taproom tonight. Check out the Inside Scoop section on IllinoisBrewing.com for details on this and many more Oktoberfest events at local craft breweries

The Oktoberfest fun begins at the @imperialoakbrewing Brookfield taproom tonight. Check out the Inside Scoop section on IllinoisBrewing.com for details on this and many more Oktoberfest events at local craft breweries

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Sep 10

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Oktoberfest season is upon us, and you can check out the new fall issue of Illinois Brewing and our website for the latest on a ton of craft brewery events in the coming weeks. Kicking off the festivities this weekend are @revbrewchicago in Chicago, @imperialoakbrewing in Brookfield, the historic @berghoffchicago with @adamsstreetbrewery in Chicago’s Loop, and @doubleclutchbrewery in Evanston. 

Check out our Inside Scoop section for info on these many and more at IllinoisBrewing.com

Oktoberfest season is upon us, and you can check out the new fall issue of Illinois Brewing and our website for the latest on a ton of craft brewery events in the coming weeks. Kicking off the festivities this weekend are @revbrewchicago in Chicago, @imperialoakbrewing in Brookfield, the historic @berghoffchicago with @adamsstreetbrewery in Chicago’s Loop, and @doubleclutchbrewery in Evanston.

Check out our Inside Scoop section for info on these many and more at IllinoisBrewing.com

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Sep 8

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Spotlight on @pigmindsbrewingco in Machesney Park 

Proudly known to be America’s first vegan brewery, this gem just north of Rockford is celebrating 14 years of outstanding food, a diverse beer lineup, and a calendar full of fun community events

Read the feature from our recent issue now at IllinoisBrewing.com

Spotlight on @pigmindsbrewingco in Machesney Park

Proudly known to be America’s first vegan brewery, this gem just north of Rockford is celebrating 14 years of outstanding food, a diverse beer lineup, and a calendar full of fun community events

Read the feature from our recent issue now at IllinoisBrewing.com

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