If you haven’t heard of Rocktober Beerfest before now, that’s okay.
In fact, we hadn’t heard of it until recently either, though we highly doubt that’ll stop this first annual beerfest from drawing in crowds in the 10,000’s. Located in the culturally-sound West Loop neighborhood, the festival focuses primarily on the theme of a German Oktoberfest with one BIG difference. Everything (and we mean everything) will be provided from local sources. Here are the big three.
1) Goose Island Beer
When it comes to Chicago’s craft beer scene, no brewery can compete with the popularity of Goose Island. And though they were recently sold to Anheuser-Busch, Goose Island breweries continue to operate around the city. The sale has allowed the brewery to expand their presence on a national level, further increasing Chicago’s share of the ever-growing craft beer market. Plus, Green Line is damn good, and we’ve yet to meet anyone who doesn’t enjoy a nice, crisp 312.
Did we mention that beer will be served in pints? It’s called Rocktober BEERfest for a reason.
2) Mouthwatering Bratwurst
We’re not sure if any words in the English language can justify just how downright delicious the food from Publican Quality Meats is. Their mouthwatering brats are served with diced white onions and whole grain mustard, just the way the Germans like it. Rumor has it, if you close your eyes and take a bite, you’ll envision yourself surrounded by yodeling natives in the quiet German countryside.
Hey, there’s only one way to find out.
3) Meet the Bands
No, the bands probably won’t yodel (unless you ask them nicely). But if you’ve been to any Chicago neighborhood fests this summer, odds are you’ve seen a few of them. Here’s the list:
- Jimmy’s Bavarian’s (Headliners)
- Hairbangers Ball
- 7th Heaven
- 16 Candles Band
- Too White Crew
- Catfight
- Blotto
- Thank You Ma’am
Rocktober Beerfest takes place on Randolph & Ogden from Oct 2-4. You can purchase tickets online here.
Photo via Squarespace