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  • Spotlight on Streetz Artz Alliance: It turns out creative, well-curated markets and Chicagoland breweries make for a great combination

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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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Nov 9

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It’s @fobab time this weekend, and the brewery list put together by the @ilcraftbeer looks better than ever. A few tickets remain to one of our favorite events anywhere. Get yours today at FoBAB.com

It’s @fobab time this weekend, and the brewery list put together by the @ilcraftbeer looks better than ever. A few tickets remain to one of our favorite events anywhere. Get yours today at FoBAB.com

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Nov 7

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From our current fall issue...

Brewer’s Choice: Larry Bolton from @blindpigbrewery on developing a California connection, settling in for a @cruzblancachi farmhouse corn-brewed ale after @fobab and the release of four unique holiday beers at his @blindpigbrewpub 

Read the spotlight here: IllinoisBrewing.com

From our current fall issue...

Brewer’s Choice: Larry Bolton from @blindpigbrewery on developing a California connection, settling in for a @cruzblancachi farmhouse corn-brewed ale after @fobab and the release of four unique holiday beers at his @blindpigbrewpub

Read the spotlight here: IllinoisBrewing.com

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Nov 6

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When you’re at a midday business networking event and you run into an old friend from @halfacrebeer

When you’re at a midday business networking event and you run into an old friend from @halfacrebeer

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Nov 5

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From the Illinois Brewing Insider archives...

Favorite breweries: "Breweries don’t become my favorites simply because they make good beer in a variety of styles (although those are two of the most important criteria), but because the people are fun and they make me feel welcome and comfortable there. My “home base” is @hailstormbrewing in Tinley Park, but other favorites in the general vicinity are @flipsidebrewing @imperialoakbrewing and @pollyannabrewingcompany 

Farther afield, I’m a big fan of @dovetailbrewery (because I’m a big fan of smoked beers), and you just can’t go wrong with @revbrewchicago 

I’m also unceasingly impressed by the @goldfingerbeer dedication to brewing world-class lager beer styles. And I wish @hopdistrictbrewing was closer to home." 

— @martynachel the founder and president of the American Craft Beer Hall of Fame

Read more insight from Marty here: https://illinoisbrewing.com/2026/08/22/illinois-brewing-insider-marty-nachel-founder-of-the-american-craft-beer-hall-of-fame/

From the Illinois Brewing Insider archives...

Favorite breweries: "Breweries don’t become my favorites simply because they make good beer in a variety of styles (although those are two of the most important criteria), but because the people are fun and they make me feel welcome and comfortable there. My “home base” is @hailstormbrewing in Tinley Park, but other favorites in the general vicinity are @flipsidebrewing @imperialoakbrewing and @pollyannabrewingcompany

Farther afield, I’m a big fan of @dovetailbrewery (because I’m a big fan of smoked beers), and you just can’t go wrong with @revbrewchicago

I’m also unceasingly impressed by the @goldfingerbeer dedication to brewing world-class lager beer styles. And I wish @hopdistrictbrewing was closer to home."

— @martynachel the founder and president of the American Craft Beer Hall of Fame

Read more insight from Marty here: https://illinoisbrewing.com/2026/08/22/illinois-brewing-insider-marty-nachel-founder-of-the-american-craft-beer-hall-of-fame/

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Nov 2

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Replenishing our fall issue through the north side of Chicago and couldn’t be happier to see patrons at @hopbutcher and @burningbushbrewery enjoying the fresh air (and fresh craft beer) on Nov. 1

Replenishing our fall issue through the north side of Chicago and couldn’t be happier to see patrons at @hopbutcher and @burningbushbrewery enjoying the fresh air (and fresh craft beer) on Nov. 1

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Oct 30

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Soaking up the last of this near-summer weather with a @dovetailbrewery kolsch at @tinytappandcafe on the Chicago Riverwalk

Soaking up the last of this near-summer weather with a @dovetailbrewery kolsch at @tinytappandcafe on the Chicago Riverwalk

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Oct 28

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From our big fall issue that’s out now...

Spotlight on @streetzartzalliance — It turns out creative, well-curated markets and Chicagoland breweries make for a great combination

“Today, almost 15 years in, our goal remains pretty simple: find new talent, give artists opportunities to grow and succeed, support the breweries we work with, and build a real sense of community among our artists, vendors and patrons.” — Founder John Streetz 

Read the Q&A now at IllinoisBrewing.com

From our big fall issue that’s out now...

Spotlight on @streetzartzalliance — It turns out creative, well-curated markets and Chicagoland breweries make for a great combination

“Today, almost 15 years in, our goal remains pretty simple: find new talent, give artists opportunities to grow and succeed, support the breweries we work with, and build a real sense of community among our artists, vendors and patrons.” — Founder John Streetz

Read the Q&A now at IllinoisBrewing.com

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Oct 25

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Did you know that @kaisertigerchicago in Chicago’s West Loop has a free shuttle to all Blackhawks and Bulls games (and a lot of concerts)? We did. We also know they have great food, a huge patio and a stellar beer list with local Illinois brews from the likes of @arthistorybrewing @oldirvingbrewing @goldfingerbeer @midwestcoastbrewing @hopewellbrewing and more.

Did you know that @kaisertigerchicago in Chicago’s West Loop has a free shuttle to all Blackhawks and Bulls games (and a lot of concerts)? We did. We also know they have great food, a huge patio and a stellar beer list with local Illinois brews from the likes of @arthistorybrewing @oldirvingbrewing @goldfingerbeer @midwestcoastbrewing @hopewellbrewing and more.

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Oct 22

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Illinois Brewing Insider Hannah Gilmore — the assistant taproom manager at @begylebrewing — on great recent beers from @halfacrebeer @hopbutcher and @firestonewalker as well as her affection for the vibes at @longroomchicago and @thehopleaf … and family escapes to enjoy Maine’s impressive beer scene (we’re looking at you @mainebeerco @fogtownbrewing and @oronobrewingcompany 

Read the spotlight now at illinoisbrewing.com

Illinois Brewing Insider Hannah Gilmore — the assistant taproom manager at @begylebrewing — on great recent beers from @halfacrebeer @hopbutcher and @firestonewalker as well as her affection for the vibes at @longroomchicago and @thehopleaf … and family escapes to enjoy Maine’s impressive beer scene (we’re looking at you @mainebeerco @fogtownbrewing and @oronobrewingcompany

Read the spotlight now at illinoisbrewing.com

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Oct 20

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One of the most anticipated beer events in the country, @fobab (aka the Festival of Wood & Barrel-Aged Beers) is where brewers show off their most ambitious, most imaginative creations and where drinkers get to explore the absolute edge of craft beer.

Tickets for Nov. 13-14 are on sale now at FOBAB.com. Read more about this event in our Inside Scoop section at IllinoisBrewing.com

One of the most anticipated beer events in the country, @fobab (aka the Festival of Wood & Barrel-Aged Beers) is where brewers show off their most ambitious, most imaginative creations and where drinkers get to explore the absolute edge of craft beer.

Tickets for Nov. 13-14 are on sale now at FOBAB.com. Read more about this event in our Inside Scoop section at IllinoisBrewing.com

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Oct 19

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Catching the Bears game at the versatile @doubleclutchbrewery in Evanston prior to the kid’s playoff baseball game down the street = a quality decision. Smoked turkey BLT, nice variety of brews, classic cars and three different rooms to enjoy.

Catching the Bears game at the versatile @doubleclutchbrewery in Evanston prior to the kid’s playoff baseball game down the street = a quality decision. Smoked turkey BLT, nice variety of brews, classic cars and three different rooms to enjoy.

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Oct 16

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Now this is a trend we can get behind — an imperial Oktoberfest. Nice little mid-October treat from Colorado’s @averybrewingcompany during a lunch meeting in Chicago today

Now this is a trend we can get behind — an imperial Oktoberfest. Nice little mid-October treat from Colorado’s @averybrewingcompany during a lunch meeting in Chicago today

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Oct 14

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The one and only Festival of Wood & Barrel-Aged Beers ( aka @fobab ) is only a month away and will include more than 250 barrel-aged beers, ciders, meads and perries. This massive event is always a highlight of the year, so get your tickets now.

The one and only Festival of Wood & Barrel-Aged Beers ( aka @fobab ) is only a month away and will include more than 250 barrel-aged beers, ciders, meads and perries. This massive event is always a highlight of the year, so get your tickets now.

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