Barrington wine, beer fests this weekend
You didn't think the brat tent was just for the Fourth of July, did you?
Other towns are powering down after a lively Independence Day weekend, but in Barrington things are heating up, with two fests that have become July traditions. Keep in mind the organizers are selling a "twofer" ticket for $75 - getting you into both fests. Only available online.
Uncork Barrington
Friday is for wine. Lots of wine. In all, 50 wines from 10 regions will be uncorked and ready for the 10th annual Uncork event, held 6-10 p.m. Friday in the Brat Tent.
Sample to your heart's content, but keep your equilibrium with complimentary hors d'oeuvres from 10 local restaurants and caterers.
Live entertainment is provided by BK Blues, a band full of soul and R&B tunes.
Tickets are $40 in advance (deadline is noon July 10); and $50 at the gate. Designated drivers can get in for $25.
A $90 VIP ticket gives the bearer access to the VIP deluxe tent, 10 additional premium wines to taste and some exclusive food.
Sponsored by the Barrington Village Association, profits from Uncork Barrington are donated to the community. In 2013, the group donated money to the Barrington Area United Way Barrington Career Center, Barrington Area Council on Aging, the District 220 Educational Foundation, Care Place and more.
Barrington Brew Fest
Some of the best craft beers around will headline the 11th annual Brew Fest, plus burgers, brats or barbecue, live music from Second Time Around and a raffle. Forty-eight craft brewers will be in the Brat Tent from 3-7 p.m. Saturday along with food from McGonigal's, Big Iron Horse BBQ, Ruth's Chris Steak House and Gilbert's Craft Sausages.
Tickets online (www.barrington-brew-fest.com) are $40 although a VIP ticket for $80 will get you early entry to the event, special VIP seating with snack trays provided by Whole Foods, a T-shirt held at the gate, a special sampling of 10 premium brews or more and one food coupon. Designated drivers can get into the fest for $20.
A limit of 1,500 tickets will be sold. Guests must be 21, no kids are allowed inside the tent.
Tickets can also be bought in person at McGonigal's Pub, 105 S. Cook St. (advance purchase T-shirts available only at this location); Wool Street Grill & Sports Bar, 128 Wool St.; The Onion Pub & Brewery, 22221 N. Pepper Road, Lake Barrington; and the Barrington Area Council on Aging, 6000 Garlands Lane, Suite 100.
Tickets can also be bought at the gate if any remain, but for cash only.
All proceeds from the Barrington Brew Fest benefit the Barrington Area Council on Aging. The event will be held rain or shine. All ticket sales are final.