The Chicago Beer Fest celebrates the finest of craft beer, from local, midwestern microbreweries like The Blind Pig to grocery store staples like Lagunitas and New Belgium. Scheduled on the last night of the traditional Oktoberfest calendar, the brew fest represents over 65 breweries, which means you stand a good chance of finding something even for that friend who swears she doesn’t like beer. Like pomegranate ginger seltzer from Press, or a chocolate cherry cordial from Blake’s Hard Cider.
At the same time, Chicago Beer Fest hasn’t gotten so big yet as to outgrow its venue, which is important, because since 2016 the Field Museum has provided a safe haven for homebrewing nerds to compare ABV and ABW in the shade of its colossal T-Rex skeleton (her name is Sue, by the way). In fact, the whole museum stays open late for the event, allowing ticket holders to stroll through the exhibits, gazing up at all their favorite fossilized predators–Tricerahops, Kegosaurus, Pterodactale–while sipping a soft head of milky foam from the rim of their tasting glass.
Pro tip: tickets have sold out early the last few years, so don’t wait till the day-of.
Pro pro tip 2: If you find yourself like Ben Stiller in a slap-fight with a capuchin monkey, you’ve probably had a few too many.
The Specs
- The Chicago Beer Festival organizers do not publish attendance numbers.
- Early admission (7 p.m. to 11 p.m.) is $65 and general admission (8 p.m. to 11 p.m.) is $50. According to the festival site, besides the additional hour, early admission will also grant attendees specialty beers offered by brewers in the first hour. Attendees will receive 40 taster vouchers.
- Get tickets before the event. Tickets will NOT be sold at the door. (See the “check for tickets” button above to buy tickets)
- Check out our Best of the U.S. Bucket List entry for travel tips to Chicago.
FAQs
Which airport is closest to the Chicago Beer Fest?
O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is 21 miles from the Field Museum, where the brew festival is held.
What is the exact address of the Field Museum?
1400 South Lake Shore Drive Chicago, IL 60605
It’s my first time going to the craft beer fest. What can I expect?
The Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce says that llinois is home to more than 200 of the nation’s 4,000-plus microbreweries, so you can expect a legit beer fest. It will feature more than 65 breweries, so beer lovers will have the chance to taste a full slate of seasonal beers.
What is the bag policy?
There is no explicit bag policy.
Is there parking available?
Parking is located at Soldier Field, just south of the museum. If you plan on drinking, please make sure you have a safe way home.
Is the festival ADA accessible?
Wheelchair-accessible parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis in the East Museum Lot.
Are children allowed?
This is a 21+ event, no minors will be admitted.
Will the event go on no matter rain or shine?
Yes, the event will happen regardless of the weather.
