Get ready for the Cider Summit at Navy Pier! This Friday, February 4th, head over to the Aon Ballroom for a cider event unlike any other.
Known as the region’s largest hard cider-tasting event, there are over 150 cider selections to choose from at this can’t miss festival. With ciders from over 50 producers, the ciders available will range from local to regional and international pours for an elevated tasting experience. Featured ciders include locals like Green Post Pub, Eris Brewery & Cider House, Peeled Hard Cider, and a range of additional brands like Trabanco Sidra from Spain, and Stem Ciders out of Colorado.
Festival goers can try out any number of mead, cider cocktails, apple spirits and there are rumored to be a few surprises in store as well. With two sessions to choose from (Either 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., or 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.) entry starts at 12 p.m. for session 1 and 5 p.m. for session 2.
Sure to be filled with all kinds of delicious ciders, you can reserve your ticket online beforehand as general admission tickets start at $40– including 12 tasting tickets, and a festival tasting glass. VIP goes for $50– in which you’ll get 16 tasting tickets, express admission, and a souvenir tasting glass.
If you’re unsure about attending, you can grab a general admission ticket that day. Just head to the festival gate and get a $50 GA ticket right there.
The 21+ event features 2-ounce pours while a few selected pours will be served in smaller portions due to the alcohol content.
If you’re looking to attend the festival but don’t want to partake in the drinking, there will be Designated Driver tickets available for $10 which will include access to the festival along with a water bottle to keep you hydrated. In past years, there’s been a free Brew Bus available, running on a loop starting at 10:30 a.m. (at the Grand Ave stops) and last departure from the Navy Pier taking off after 8 p.m.
For those taking part in the tastings, please note that the last pour will be 15 minutes prior to closing time. There will also be a selection of food trucks on site. Grab tickets here and enjoy!
Address: 840 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611