Illinois Brews pivots to virtual tasting, but still using real beer

If it seems like virtually every event is going virtual, you're virtually right.

Fortunately for those who've enjoyed the annual Illinois Brews beer tasting, the beer remains real and only the event is virtual.

Illinois Brews, which is normally held annually at Bowes Creek Country Club in Elgin, will be held online Saturday, Sept. 12 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"We've had this brewfest for eight consecutive years and we really wanted to keep the continuity going," said Randy Reopelle, Elgin Parks and Recreation Board chairman. "There are some benefits to doing this virtually, like no one is going to drink and drive."

And no concerns about the weather, he added.

Tickets are $30 and each ticket includes a six-pack of assorted craft beers from local breweries. Participants can drink at home during the live virtual event, broadcast on YouTube and Facebook. They'll be able to interact with representatives from each of the brewers of the beers provided and receive insight as to the type of beer it is, how it was brewed and with what it best pairs.

Reoppelle said their goal is to have 100 participants tasting. Beers are provided by the Silverado Homebrew Club, Riverlands Brewing Co. and D & G Brewing, all based in St. Charles, as well as Obscurity Brewing in Elburn and Sew Hop'd in Huntley.

Money raised from ticket sales and donations will go directly to providing recreational opportunities for at-risk children in Elgin through the Elgin Parks and Recreation Foundation. "With the COVID and all the craziness going on in the world there's no more important time for kids to get out and do healthy, active things," Reopelle said.

For more information, visit cityofelgin.org/ILbrews.