With nearly 50 brewers showcasing more than 90 different brews, Barrington’s Brew Fest has become the foremost beer fest in the Northwest suburbs! This year’s event is set for:
Saturday, July 7, 2018
3-7 p.m.
Downtown Barrington (by Metra tracks in the center of town!) Lots of music, food and fun!
Purchase a ticket for the VIP tent and enjoy some of the best food for just one price!
Hosted by the Barrington Area Council on Aging, all proceeds will benefit the elderly with programs that include:
Memory Cafe, a socialization program for those struggling with Alzheimer’s and dementia and their caregivers
“A Day Out” Respite program, which provides engaged care for those with health issues while their caregiver takes needed time away
Meals with Wheels, a hot, food program for elderly unable to cook either because of poor health or low income
Support and education groups for those struggling with everything from Alzheimer’s to Parkinson’s
Brew Fest guests receive a commemorative tasting glass with their ticket and sample beers by visiting the brewer tables set up along the downtown streets. Each pour is small, so visitors can try many styles over the afternoon, from light lagers and crisp pilsners to hoppy IPAs, malty ambers, fruit-forward ales and rich stouts. Brewers and their representatives are usually on hand to talk about their recipes and answer questions.
With more than 90 brews on offer, a little planning helps. Many guests look over the list of participating breweries when they arrive, pick a few favorites to find first, and then explore styles they have never tried. Pacing yourself between samples, drinking water and taking breaks to eat are all part of getting the most out of the afternoon.
The VIP Tent and Food Options
For guests who want a more relaxed experience, the VIP tent offers a single-price ticket that includes food from local restaurants along with the festival's beers. Because the food is part of the ticket, there is no need to wait in line to pay at multiple stations, and the tent gives guests a place to sit and rest between tastings.
Outside the tent, food vendors and nearby downtown restaurants serve those looking for a quick bite. Eating throughout the event is a good idea for anyone sampling several brews, and the variety of menus makes it easy to pair savory snacks with different beer styles.
VIP ticket includes food and a comfortable place to gather
Commemorative glass for sampling throughout the event
Live music playing in the heart of downtown
Local restaurants and vendors close at hand
Getting There and Staying Safe
The festival takes place in downtown Barrington beside the Metra tracks, which makes the Metra train a convenient way to arrive. Riding the train to the center of town means visitors can enjoy the tastings without worrying about driving afterward, and the station is only steps from the festivities. Those who do drive should check for parking in nearby lots and side streets, as downtown spaces fill up quickly on a busy summer Saturday.
Organizers encourage responsible enjoyment. Guests must be of legal drinking age to sample beer, and anyone attending should plan a safe ride home through the train, a designated driver or a ride service. Sunscreen, comfortable shoes and a hat are also wise choices for an outdoor July afternoon.
Why the Community Gets Involved
The Brew Fest depends on volunteers, sponsors and local businesses who give their time and support so that every ticket dollar can go toward the work of the Barrington Area Council on Aging. Neighbors pour beer, check in guests, set up tents and help clean up, turning a single afternoon into a true community effort.
For many attendees, the appeal is knowing that a good time also does good. Funds raised help seniors and families stay supported at home, from hot meals to respite for caregivers and education for families facing memory loss. By coming together downtown, residents of the Northwest suburbs show how much they value the older members of their community.
