Illinois Brewers Guild Meeting Held at Tighthead Brewing Co. in Mundelein
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Lake County Libation Trail Members including Tonality Brewing Co., Tighthead Brewing Co., Half Day Brewing Co., Buffalo Creek Brewing and Harbor Brewing Co. with John Maguire, VLC senior director of community engagement and Margie Burba, VLC community engagement specialist.
Last week, the Illinois Craft Brewers Guild (ICBG) conducted their quarterly meeting at Tighthead Brewing Co. in Mundelein, where brewers from around the state gathered to exchange ideas and explore ways to enhance their shared passion for craft beverages further.
In a collaborative effort to promote Illinois’s thriving craft beer scene, John Maguire, Visit Lake County (VLC) senior director of community engagement, had the honor of presenting the "Libation Trail" program to over 100 members of the ICBG.
Alongside Maguire was Fabiola Sierra, Choose Chicago marketing manager. The group engaged in a series of discussions, tastings and tours with brewers across Illinois to explore the power of collaborative destination marketing, particularly through the lens of the Illinois Office of Tourism, the state's official tourism agency. VLC's Libation Trail, an iconic program promoting the region’s craft breweries, distilleries and wineries, has earned widespread recognition as one of the top-promoted craft beverage trails in the state.
Maguire, Sierra and Ray Stout, Illinois Craft Brewers Guild
The 200+ member guild focuses on legislative and regulatory advocacy, education for beer makers and creative promotion of Illinois breweries. Lake County Libation Trail partners included representatives from Harbor Brewing Co., Roaring Table Brewery, Buffalo Creek Brewing, Mickey Finn's Brewery, Half Day Brewing Company and Tonality Brewing Company, who all provided key contributions.
ICBG members at Tighthead Brewing Co. in Mundelein
The Libation Trail has become a premier example of how strategic tourism marketing can boost not only local businesses but the reputation of an entire region. Featuring 25+ Lake County establishments, the trail encourages visitors to explore the diverse craft beverage offerings throughout the area.
Don't forget to participate in the Spooks & Spirits Check-in Challenge. Visit five Lake County breweries, distilleries or wineries by Halloween for a chance to win prizes, including a 10-person custom Party Bus Tour with 95WIIL-Rock personalities. There's still time to check in and join the fun.
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February Flavor Fest Returns in 2025
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The highly anticipated February Flavor Festival is returning for its second year, combining the best of Lake County’s culinary and craft beverage scenes into one unforgettable month. This campaign invites visitors and residents to explore the region's vibrant restaurants, breweries, distilleries and wineries.
February Flavor Fest promises a unique experience with exclusive offers, entertainment and creative food and drink pairings that highlight the diverse flavors of Lake County. Our top priority is supporting the hospitality businesses that make our community so special.
The event aims to:
- Drive foot traffic and boost revenue for local businesses.
- Offer value-driven pricing and tasting opportunities to engage new customers.
- Stimulate growth for our partners by creating memorable experiences that visitors will want to share.
- Increase visibility for new establishments while expanding the audience for well-loved venues.
- Provide valuable data and insights via the event’s check-in platform.
Participating venues will gain exposure to new customers, drive foot traffic and contribute to the lively culinary scene. Don't miss this opportunity to offer exclusive deals, create memorable experiences and support the local community. For any questions, reach out to VLC Senior Director of Community Engagement John Maguire or Community Engagement Specialist Margie Burba.
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Trick or Treat Hours in Lake County
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Get ready for Halloween fun in Lake County! Trick-or-treat hours vary by town, so check out our blog for all Lake County has to offer this Halloween. From friendly neighborhood trick-or-treating to costume parades and spooky events, there’s plenty for everyone to enjoy. Families with young children can explore a range of kid-friendly Halloween happenings, including pumpkin patches, hayrides and seasonal activities. Wherever you are in Lake County, Halloween promises to be a festive and fun-filled celebration for all!
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Video Spotlights: Grayslake Heritage Museum & New Stores Opening at Hawthorn
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Keep VLC Updated on Your Holiday Plans
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Great Wolf Lodge Illinois
VLC is dedicated to supporting our partners, communities and residents throughout the holiday season and beyond. As we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah and other festive occasions, we invite you to share your seasonal events and parties with us. We’d love to feature your stories and gatherings across our website, social media, newsletters and more.
Contact VLC Marketing Director Jonathan Jones and inform us of your holiday plans.
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