Winter Just Got Warmer in Naperville – New Festival to Toast Winter Ales
Naperville loves a festival, and this February, a new fest will draw craft beer aficionados from throughout Chicagoland to Naperville’s Frontier Park for the first-ever Naperville Winter Ale Fest. Presented by Lou Dog Events, LLC, which introduced the Naperville Ale Fest last summer, the outdoor Winter Ale Fest will showcase over 120 American craft beers by some 60 breweries from around the country. Heated tents, a bonfire seating area and patio heaters will ensure visitors will be warmed by more than the beer. The event, held from noon-4 pm, will also feature a number of popular food trucks from throughout Chicagoland, as well as roasting chestnuts and live ice sculpting.
One price admission will allow guests to enjoy 3 oz samples of IPA’s, Belgiums, Porters, Stouts, Lagers and Fall- and Winter-style ales, according to organizer Josh Seago. “This is a great opportunity to experience the delights of winter beers offering bolder color, spice and character that compliments the hearty foods and colder temperatures of the winter season,” he says. Hot spiced hard cider and nonalcoholic beverages will also be available.
A portion of the proceeds from Naperville Winter Ale fest will benefit the Naperville Parks Foundation. “Lou Dog is a social entrepreneurial company, so it’s great to be able to do something we’re passionate about and give back to Naperville,” says Seago. “Our events are each designed to be partnerships with the local communities we work with.”
“The Naperville Park District is very grateful to the Naperville Parks Foundation and Lou Dog for making the Winter Ale Fest a reality,” says Ray McGury, Park District Executive Director. “The Foundation will be the recipient of funds that will help the Park District offset the nearly 200% rise in our scholarship program, benefitting families and individuals who cannot afford program or activity fees due to economic hardship. We hope this is the first of many events we can partner on to benefit the Naperville community.”
Tickets for the Naperville Winter Ale Fest are $45 for tastings, a commemorative Winter Fest glass and Program Guide and $15 for Designated Drivers, and are available at www.napervillewinteralefest.com. No one under 21 will be admitted to the fest. The event will be held snow or shine. Free parking is available at Neuqua Valley High School.
“These beers are crafted by entrepreneurial artisans, and many have qualities similar to fine wines. This is a chance to support these craftspeople and broaden your enjoyment of craft beers in a unique winter beer garden atmosphere, “ says Seago. “If you can’t find a craft beer to fall in love with, you’re just not trying.” For information: www.napervillewinteralefest.com.
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