Northern Illinois Beer Festivals Happen in August – Shaw Local

Summer is a great time for beer festivals. While most of them have already passed, there are still a few events taking place before the cooler weather hits and Oktoberfest begins.

During these festivals you can taste unique beers, delicious food and lively entertainment.

Corn and Craft Beer Festival – August 3

Sample craft beers from a variety of local brewers while listening to live music at Sonny Acres Farm in West Chicago. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and also features corn products such as roasted corn, elote, corn dogs and more. Music from Live Pete begins at noon. Shop for crafts and goods from local artisans and enjoy activities such as a feed-yourself zoo, cornhole games and more. sonnyacres.com/corn-craft-beer-fest-at-sonny-acres-farm/

Oak Park Microbrew Review – August 17

One of the longest-running beer festivals in the area, Oak Park Microbrew Review will feature more than 60 breweries with beers, ciders and seltzers for you to sample in the city center. Food from a variety of vendors will be available for purchase. Visit the city’s quaint local businesses while the streets are closed and open to pedestrians. Super early bird tickets are $55 and are available through July 1. VIP admission is at noon, early bird admission is at 1 p.m. and general admission is at 2 p.m. The event ends at 6 p.m. Proceeds benefit Seven Generations Ahead. sevengenerationsahead.org/opmbr

Bands, Beers and BBQ – August 16-18

It’s three days of music, delicious food, and cold beer at Bands, Brews & BBQ in McHenry. The event takes place in Petersen Park from August 16-18. Enjoy beers and seltzers from Crystal Lake Brewing, Holzhauer Brewing, Revolution Brewing, and more. Food vendors include Big E BBQ, Rolling Smoke BBQ, Little Rock Street Cafe, Perk N’ Pickle, and more. Performers include John Todd, Jimmy Nick, Recaptured – A Tribute to Journey, 8 Miles South, and more. For more information on ticket prices, times, and the full weekend lineup, visit mrbbb.com.

Ribs, Rhythms & Brews – August 24

This year’s Ribs, Rhythms & Brews event, taking place from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday, August 24 in downtown Sycamore, promises to be bigger and better than ever! The popular event draws award-winning rib vendors from across the region. sycamorechamber.com/chamber-events/ribs-rhythm-brews-fest