April 2019
In case anyone wonders, proceeds that the Historic Downtown Long Grove Business Association raises from the special events it organizes each year goes to improving the full Long Grove experience throughout the year – things like lighting in the downtown, decorations, hometown festivals, and holiday promotions. Once such example of a fundraising event that contributes to enhancing Long Grove is the annual Craft Beer Festival.
With its deep-seated German roots, downtown Long Grove transforms into the suburb’s biggest biergarten on Saturday, April 27 from 12 pm to 5 pm. Situated in the parking lot in front of Lake County’s destination brewery, Buffalo Creek Brewing, Craft Beer Festival symbolizes Long Grove’s annual homage to its beer-loving, immigrant history. Attendees get a one-of-a-kind, authentic tasting experience with some of Chicagoland’s most talented beermakers outside under the spring sun with a vintage village as a backdrop. In addition to unlimited tastes of over 20 participating breweries, Craft Beer Fest also offers live music and local food options.
“Craft Beer Fest has become an annual tradition bringing together beer lovers from near and far,” said Mike Marr, president of the Historic Downtown Long Grove Business Association and owner/brewmaster of Buffalo Creek Brewing. “Whether you’re into Belgium Ales or American Lagers, Craft Beer Fest has it all. It’s the tasting experience of the year in one of Illinois’ most historic towns!”
Long Grove’s picturesque backdrop helps set this beer festival apart from other cookie cutters in Chicagoland. Organized by the Historic Downtown Long Grove Business Association, the event lets ticket-holders visit any brewer’s stations as much as they’d like to sample freshly-brewed suds and get brewing wisdom from the pourer. They can learn from beer-makers things like what goes into making a varietal unique, how to taste and evaluate like a judge, what sorts of ingredients go into production, etc.
Along with unlimited beers and local wines from participating vendors, Craft Beer Fest will feature live bluegrass from Anderlik & Otto. There will also be multiple eating options available by some local favorites, including Long Grove Confectionery, Three Legged Taco, and Signature Popcorn, to provide needed nourishment (for additional purchase) during this day dedicated to fresh beer. 21-and-over tickets are available in advance for $40 through EventBrite.