Lincoln Park Zoo Craft Brews is an annual event that combines the excitement of craft beer tasting with the enchantment of exploring the zoo after dark. This adults-only gathering offers over 100 craft beers and ciders from local and regional breweries, live music, food trucks, and exclusive animal viewings. Held in June, the event transforms the zoo into a lively beer garden, providing a distinctive blend of wildlife and craft brews for attendees 21 and older.
What Are the Key Details for Lincoln Park Zoo Craft Brews?
The Lincoln Park Zoo Craft Brews event is a highly anticipated annual gathering that offers a unique experience for beer enthusiasts and animal lovers alike. Here are the essential details:
- Date: Typically held in June
- Time: 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Location: Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago
- Age Restriction: 21 and older only
- Ticket Options:
- General Admission: $65
- Early Entry: $80 (allows entry one hour earlier)
How Does the Event Combine Zoo Experience with Craft Beer Tasting?
The Lincoln Park Zoo Craft Brews event masterfully blends the serene zoo environment with the vibrant craft beer scene:
- Beer Tasting Stations: Scattered throughout the zoo gardens
- Animal Viewings: Unique after-hours access to animal exhibits (weather permitting)
- Live Music: Performances set against the backdrop of the zoo
- Food Trucks: Offering delicious bites to complement the brews
- Lawn Games: Adding an element of fun and interaction
This combination creates a one-of-a-kind atmosphere where attendees can sip on craft beers while strolling through beautifully landscaped zoo grounds and observing wildlife in a more relaxed, adult-oriented setting.
What Can Attendees Expect from the Craft Beer Selection?
The event boasts an impressive array of craft beers and ciders:
- Over 100 varieties from local and regional breweries
- Diverse selection catering to different taste preferences
- Opportunity to discover new and unique brews
- Chance to interact with brewery representatives
Attendees can expect to sample a wide range of styles, from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, crisp lagers to fruity sours, ensuring there’s something for every beer enthusiast.
What Are the Rules and Regulations for the Event?
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all, the Lincoln Park Zoo Craft Brews event has established the following rules:
| Rule | Description |
|---|---|
| Age Restriction | Strictly 21 and older; valid photo ID required |
| No Children | Babies and children not allowed |
| No Smoking | Designated smoking area outside entrance gates only |
| No Tailgating | Not permitted in parking lots |
| Weather Policy | Event held rain or shine |
These regulations help maintain the adult-oriented atmosphere and ensure compliance with local laws and zoo policies.
How Can Attendees Make the Most of Their Experience?
To maximize enjoyment at the Lincoln Park Zoo Craft Brews event, consider these tips:
- Arrive Early: Early entry tickets allow you to beat the crowds and enjoy more tastings.
- Plan Your Route: Familiarize yourself with the zoo layout and tasting station locations.
- Pace Yourself: With over 100 brews available, it’s important to drink responsibly.
- Try New Things: Use this opportunity to explore unfamiliar beer styles or breweries.
- Engage with Staff: Ask questions about the animals and beers to enhance your experience.
- Stay Hydrated: Alternate between beer tastings and water to stay refreshed.
- Use Public Transportation: Consider using ride-sharing services or public transit for safe travel.
What Do Past Attendees Say About the Event?
Feedback from previous Lincoln Park Zoo Craft Brews events provides valuable insights:
- Positive Aspects:
- Unique setting combining zoo atmosphere with craft beer tasting
- Wide variety of beers and ciders available
- Enjoyable live music and food options
-
Exclusive after-hours access to animal exhibits
-
Areas for Improvement:
- Long lines at popular tasting stations during peak times
- Limited zoo staff knowledge about beer-related questions
- Crowded areas near popular exhibits or tasting stations
Overall, attendees generally praise the event for its distinctive concept and enjoyable atmosphere, despite some logistical challenges.
How Does the Event Support the Lincoln Park Zoo?
The Lincoln Park Zoo Craft Brews event serves a dual purpose:
- Entertainment: Providing a unique, adults-only experience
- Fundraising: Supporting the zoo’s operations and conservation efforts
By attending this event, participants not only enjoy a night of craft beer tasting and zoo exploration but also contribute to the ongoing care of animals and the zoo’s various conservation initiatives. This aspect adds a meaningful dimension to the event, allowing attendees to indulge in craft brews while supporting a worthy cause.
What Should Attendees Bring to the Event?
To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience at Lincoln Park Zoo Craft Brews, consider bringing:
- Valid photo ID (required for entry)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light jacket or sweater (for cooler evening temperatures)
- Cash for food purchases or additional merchandise
- Portable phone charger
- Small bag or backpack (subject to security checks)
Remember, outside food and beverages are not permitted, so plan to enjoy the offerings available at the event.
How Does Lincoln Park Zoo Craft Brews Compare to Other Beer Festivals?
Lincoln Park Zoo Craft Brews stands out from typical beer festivals in several ways:
- Unique Venue: The zoo setting provides a distinctive backdrop not found at other festivals.
- Animal Encounters: Opportunity to view zoo animals after hours, a rare experience.
- Educational Component: Combines beer tasting with potential for learning about wildlife.
- Limited Capacity: Often less crowded than large-scale beer festivals, offering a more intimate experience.
- Charitable Aspect: Supports zoo operations and conservation efforts.
These factors combine to create an event that appeals to both beer enthusiasts and animal lovers, offering a more diverse and enriching experience than standard beer festivals.
By offering a blend of craft beer tasting, zoo exploration, and entertainment in a controlled, adults-only environment, Lincoln Park Zoo Craft Brews has established itself as a unique and popular event in Chicago’s summer calendar. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting the city, this event provides a memorable way to experience both the zoo and the vibrant craft beer scene in one exciting evening.
References:
1. Craft Brews at Lincoln Park Zoo
2. Chicago Beer Festivals & Events
3. Lincoln Park Zoo craft beer event. Thoughts?