The Return of FoBAB: A Celebration of Barrel-Aged Mastery in Chicago
This November, Chicago once again becomes the hub of barrel-aged brilliance with the return of the Festival of Wood & Barrel-Aged Beer (FoBAB). Now in its 23rd year, this celebrated event transforms the Windy City into the meeting ground for brewers, innovators, and craft beer aficionados. The two-day festival, set for November 7-8, 2025, blends artistry, competition, and community, offering exclusive pours and engaging sessions to celebrate the evolution and passion of craft brewing.
Organized by the Illinois Craft Brewers Guild, FoBAB is more than just a beer event; it’s a pivotal point for seasoned brewers to showcase their craftsmanship. Festival goers will experience over 300 unique beers, ciders, meads, and perrys—many of which debut at this event, underscoring the festival’s role as a catalyst for creativity and innovation in the barrel-aged beer scene.
The Art and Craft of Barrel-Aging
Since its inception in 2002, FoBAB has stood as a beacon for those in the brewing community who dare to push the envelope. Esteemed brewers from across the United States converge in Chicago to display their mastery over the art of barrel-aging—a delicate process where beer is matured in barrels that once housed bourbon, whiskey, or wine. This practice infuses the beer with intricate layers of flavor, creating some of the most sought-after and complex beers on the market today.
Katie Carrier, Associate Director for the Illinois Craft Brewers Guild, aptly describes the event as “more than a beer festival—it’s a showcase of craftsmanship and creativity.” Attendees can anticipate a rich lineup that spans bold stouts to refined wild ales, each illustrating the meticulous precision and innovative spirit that barrel-aged beer fosters.
Engage in 2025’s Unforgettable FoBAB Sessions
Taking place at the Credit Union 1 Arena, located at 525 S. Racine Ave., Chicago, IL 60607, FoBAB offers two diverse tasting sessions on November 7 and 8. Guests are invited to savor a myriad of uniquely aged offerings across 13 style categories. An exclusive Lager Lounge on the festival’s second floor will provide a refreshing contrast to the high-ABV selections, featuring lighter pours from local Illinois breweries.
The festival floor offers not only tantalizing beverages but also an enticing array of concession-style foods to complement each sip. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or a newcomer eager to learn, the Festival of Wood & Barrel-Aged Beer promises a memorable experience steeped in flavor and community.
The Thrilling FoBAB Competition
One of the most thrilling aspects of FoBAB is its nationally recognized competition. Before the festival officially opens, a panel of skilled judges evaluates the vast array of entries, awarding prestigious medals in multiple categories. This competition is renowned for its celebration of craftsmanship, with ‘Best in Show’ honors marking the pinnacle of brewing achievement.
Festival attendees also play an active role in the excitement by casting votes for their favorite brews. With ballot boxes strategically placed throughout the venue, participants can nominate their top choices for the coveted ‘Fan Favorite’ award, ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard in this festival of excellence.
Get Your FoBAB Tickets and Enhance Your Experience
FoBAB general admission tickets are priced at $85 apiece, exclusive of processing fees, and will be available starting September 19, 2025. Early birds snagging their tickets by midnight of the release day enter a raffle with a chance to win exclusive FoBAB merchandise.
For those looking to amplify their festival experience, additional raffles allow attendees to bypass lines with a ‘SKIP THE LINE’ badge or to be treated as ULTIMATE FOBAB VIPs, granting early festival access and entry to exclusive lounges. These enhancements promise to elevate your immersion into the heart of barrel-aged brewing excellence.
Each ticket purchase supports the Illinois Craft Brewers Guild, reinforcing the guild’s mission to advocate for and advance Illinois breweries within the thriving craft beer landscape.
Join the 2025 FoBAB Festival
WHEN: Friday, Nov. 7 | 6:00 – 10:00 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 8 | 1:00 – 5:00 p.m.
WHERE: UIC Credit Union 1 Arena
525 S. Racine Ave., Chicago, IL 60607
TICKETS: General Admission – $85, available from September 19, 2025
About the Illinois Craft Brewers Guild
The Illinois Craft Brewers Guild (ICBG) champions Illinois’s vibrant craft beer industry. Since 1997, this nonprofit organization has been committed to helping local breweries thrive through education, advocacy, and promotion. The guild plays a crucial role in uniting craft brewers around shared goals and interests.
Stay informed about all things FoBAB and Illinois craft brewing by following the ICBG on social media and engaging with their efforts to craft a brighter future for local breweries.
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