From taprooms and breweries to hidden speakeasies, Chicago is filled with high-quality drinks complete with a lively social atmosphere. It’s also true that the state of Illinois is one of the largest rum consumer markets in the USA.
So, for all the rum lovers out there, there’s a big event on the horizon that you’ll want to get in on! Returning for its 7th annual event, fans and trade professionals from all over the country are gathering at a Logan Square Auditorium this weekend (April 22) for the Chicago Run Festival.
Keep reading to find out more about the yearly event.
The Chicago Run Festival is a one-of-a-kind experience, featuring premium rum expressions, speakers, live entertainment, and many more surprises in store (like a Jack Sparrow appearance!). This year, there are two prime Illinois-based vendors to try out Star Union Spiritsand Chicago Cane Collective.
Other brands include everything from The Impex Collection to Ron Viejo De Caldas, Maggie’s Farm Rum, and more select pours.
This year’s event will be divided into sessions from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Put on by the Rum Lab, a creative and production agency focused on the rum industry, this year’s event access will be based on your ticket purchase. Here are the tiers to choose from:
The VIP Enthusiastic Session includes early access to the event and the entire 4-hour program. Running from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. guests with this ticket tier will get an exclusive tasting cup, premium rums, access to 1 VIP seminar, and consumer seminars.
The VIP “Grand” Experts Session will consist of a 5-hour program from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., with a 2-hour early admission, additional features like a branded tasting cup, and the ability to attend 2 VIP seminars along with additional consumer seminars. Both of the above tickets are currently available for $140.
The VIP seminars include an in-depth tasting of the marks of Hampden Estate ranging from OWH to DOK led by Kate Perry, a look into why rum is capturing whiskey drinkers’ attention led by Liz Rhoades, and a deep dive that allows guests to learn about and taste 100% Estate esquite rum led by Zan Kong, Miriam Pacheco, and Otto Flores.
As for the Rum Aficionados General Admission, your ticket will grant you access to the 3-hour program from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. along with a tasting cup, consumer seminars, and premium rum tastings.
Find out more about individual ticket prices and more here.
[Featured photo via The Rum Lab / Chicago Rum Fest]