THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Hoisting of the Steins Season!
As we begin to transition into the fall season, this weekend kicks off the myriad of Oktoberfests taking place in Chicago this year. Come join us on our adventures as we welcome the hoisting of the steins season!
Chicago’s very first German neighborhood will be debuting its Old Town Oktoberfest this Saturday (11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.) and Sunday (11:30 a.m.-8 p.m.) on Wells Street between Schiller Street and Evergreen Avenue in the Old Town neighborhood. This celebration comes alive with authentic flavors such as bratwurst, sauerkraut, pretzels, potato pancakes, taffy apples, fudge, funnel cakes, and more; plenty of classic German beers; lively entertainment that includes dance, a sing along with traditional German bands, local favorites, and festival performers; games where you can test your strength in stein-holding contests for a chance to win prizes; and more. Come hoist a stein with this first German neighborhood at its newest fall tradition!
Another debut taking place is Oktoberfest with the Cubs this Saturday (11 a.m.-10 p.m.) and Sunday (12 p.m.-7 p.m.) at the Toyota Camry Lot located at 1126 West Grace Street in the Wrigleyville neighborhood. This all-ages event (tickets required) will feature traditional Bavarian festival elements such as authentic food offerings from local businesses; beer tents offering a wide selection of brews; a ceremonial keg tap; live music and DJs; carnival rides (ride tickets required); and themed competitions such as stein-holding for adults and kids, keg rolling, a Dachshund parade, a yodeling event, and more. In addition, family-friendly events and activities will be held at Kinderfest offering kid-friendly rides, crafts, face painting, balloon artists, and more. Oh, by the way, attendees are encouraged to wear their Lederhosen and Dirndls so be sure to dress for the occasion!
They’re rolling out the red carpet for pups and their humans at Barktoberfest this Saturday (12 p.m.-4 p.m.) at The Dog Stop (2627 N. Western Ave.) in the Bucktown neighborhood. That’s right, it’s a dog-friendly twist on Oktoberfest with games and activities for both dogs and their humans, guided tours, raffles, giveaways, local vendors, and treats galore. Plus, this paw-some festival even has a Dog Beer Garden featuring dog-safe brewskis so they too can hoist a stein. Be prepared for plenty of fun, tails wagging, and unforgettable memories being made!
There’s a brand-new twist this year to an annual Oktoberfest that will be debuting its first annual brewery showcase at the Jarvis Square Oktoberfest and Brewery Showcase this Sunday (1 p.m.-4 p.m.) at Jarvis Square (1508 W. Jarvis Ave.) in the Rogers Park neighborhood. Partnering with Chicago’s finest breweries, the brewery showcase (ticket required) will feature beer, cider, and spirits from over 12 breweries in its festive open-air Biergarten along with a keepsake tasting glass. In addition, there will be plenty of live German music that includes oompah and polka bands as well as plenty of Bavarian food such as giant pretzels and bratwurst, and plenty of family-friendly activities at its Kinderfest. Don’t forget to attend the annual Sausage Toss at 4:30 p.m. – it’s a crowd favorite!
Join in a festive celebration of Irish tradition at the Halfway to St. Patrick’s Corned Beef Festival this Saturday (11 a.m.-10 p.m.) and Sunday (11 a.m.-7 p.m.) at Manny’s Deli located at 1141 South Jefferson Street. Dive into Chicago’s favorite deli flavors of mouthwatering corned beef and hearty sides along with green drinks and desserts. There will also be lively Irish music and performances from local Irish dancers as well as family fun to keep your little ones entertained with games and activities. Sláinte!
Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago
