Pretzel City Brewfest in Freeport, IL, is a highly anticipated event that brings craft beer lovers from all over the region for a day of delicious brews, great food, and lively entertainment. Held annually by the Greater Freeport Partnership, this festival has quickly become a must-attend celebration, attracting thousands of visitors each year. With more than 100 craft brews to sample, the event has earned a reputation as one of the best beer festivals in Illinois — it was even voted Best Event in Illinois in 2022!
A Festival with a Growing Following
What makes Pretzel City Brewfest truly special is the community it brings together. Beer enthusiasts from all over the state (and beyond) make it a point to plan their visits to Freeport around this annual event. With its fantastic atmosphere, incredible selection of craft brews, and local charm, the festival has grown into a beloved tradition for many. It’s no surprise that people return year after year to enjoy the festival’s unique offerings and explore the local beer scene.
Supporting Local Breweries
One of the standout features of Pretzel City Brewfest is its commitment to showcasing the best of the local craft beer scene. In addition to offering beers from breweries across the region, the festival proudly features three local breweries that have put Freeport on the map for craft beer lovers:
- Wishful Acres: Located just outside Freeport, Wishful Acres offers a delightful selection of hand-crafted brews that bring a unique flavor to the festival. Their rustic atmosphere and diverse range of beers make them a standout in the local beer scene.
- Lena Brewing Company: A short drive from Freeport, Lena Brewing Company is known for its small-town charm and impressive selection of craft beers. Whether you’re into lagers, stouts, or IPAs, Lena Brewing Company has something for everyone.
- Generations Brewing Company: With its fun, family-friendly atmosphere and expertly brewed craft beers, Generations Brewing Company is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Their passion for quality and creativity shines through in every pour.
These three breweries embody the spirit of the Pretzel City Brewfest, highlighting the region’s rich craft beer culture and dedication to quality brewing.
A Growing Event with Something for Everyone
At Pretzel City Brewfest, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. With over 100 craft brews to sample, festival-goers can explore a wide range of flavors, from light pilsners to bold stouts and everything in between. Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or new to the craft beer scene, you’ll find plenty of new favorites to enjoy.
Beyond the beers, the festival features live music, delicious food trucks, and a fun, festive atmosphere that makes it the perfect way to spend the day with friends. With so much to see and do, Pretzel City Brewfest has become an annual tradition for many — one that brings together people from all walks of life to enjoy great beer and even better company.
Convenient Location and Safe Enjoyment
Another great thing about Pretzel City Brewfest is its location. The festival is conveniently located within walking distance of the Downtown Hampton Inn, making it easy for visitors to attend and enjoy the festivities without worrying about transportation. Whether you’re staying overnight or just visiting for the day, this central location ensures that you’re close to the action and can enjoy the event to the fullest.
As always, Freeport Ford encourages responsible drinking. While the festival is all about celebrating craft beer, it’s important to enjoy the event safely. If you’re planning on attending the festival, please make arrangements to get home safely. Consider using a designated driver, ride-sharing services, or taking advantage of the hotel’s convenient location so you can enjoy the day without worrying about drinking and driving.
Looking Forward to Next Year
If you’ve never been to Pretzel City Brewfest, mark your calendar for next year! With more than 100 craft brews, an amazing local atmosphere, and plenty of fun activities, this is one festival you won’t want to miss. Pretzel City Brewfest is a celebration of everything that makes Freeport, IL, special: great beer, great people, and great times. We look forward to seeing you there for another unforgettable year of brews and community spirit!
Connect with us
