Muttersholtz Fest a nod to Long Grove's roots

In celebration of its first year serving handcrafted beer inside its Bavarian-themed taproom, Buffalo Creek Brewing in historic downtown Long Grove is throwing a birthday bash for the ages.

Beer, barbecue and bluegrass fans alike are invited to discover the meaning of "Muttersholtz" on Saturday, July 21. From noon to 10 p.m., owner/brewmaster Mike Marr is transforming his brewery and its expansive outdoor grounds and parking lot into Muttersholtz Fest, an anniversary party in honor of Long Grove's roots.

"This town was originally named Muttersholtz by German settlers because it reminded them of their homeland," said Marr. "As such, I themed my entire brewery in the Bavarian-style, which embodies a cozy, communal atmosphere where people can take a step back and relax while enjoying a few cold ones in the company of one another."

So why Muttersholtz Fest? Marr explains: "It's a bridge between Long Grove's deep-seated immigrant history and the environment I'm trying to create today."

At the anniversary event, Marr is pulling out all the stops. Included in the price of admission (tickets are now available on Eventbrite) is a heaping plate of BBQ highlighted by three of the area's leading barbecue chefs competing for the title of best whole-roasted hog on a spit; nonstop live music by four top-notch bluegrass band; and choice of ice cold beer from Buffalo Creek Brewing's extensive menu.

To further demonstrate his commitment to the local community, Marr is also donating a percentage of the proceeds raised at Muttersholtz Fest to the Long Grove Lions Club.

Music lineup

• Noon to 2 p.m.: Grateful String Band

• 2:30-4:30 p.m.: Fox Crossing Stringband

• 5-7 p.m. Anderlik, Otto & Church

• 7:30-9:30 p.m. Henhouse Prowlers

Barbecue lineup

• Noon: BBQ'd Productions

• 3 p.m.: Steamboat BBQ

• 6 p.m.: Chicago Culinary Kitchen

Name's history

The original settlers of Long Grove emigrated from the small town of Muttersholtz ("Mother's Wood" in English) in the mid-1800s, and originally named it after their ancestral home, which was part of Germany at the time.

Legend has it that they picked the area because the "Long Grove" of trees reminded them of the terrain back home.

The original postmaster in town, a man by the name of Sigwalt, is credited with first registering the name. However, as time went on, the residents desired an English name, so Long Grove was chosen.

If you go

What: Muttersholtz Fest

When: Noon to 10 p.m. Saturday, July 21

Where: Buffalo Creek Brewing, 360 Historical Lane, Long Grove

Tickets: $30 in advance on <a href="https://Muttersholtz.Eventbrite.com">Eventbrite</a>

Included: Admission, live music, one plate of barbecue, one beer

Details: <a href="https://Muttersholtz.Eventbrite.com">https://Muttersholtz.Eventbrite.com</a>

Parking: free