The Beeronaut

Chicago’s Memorial Day Beer Weekend, May 22-25

First, the good news (maybe): The state of Illinois and Gov. Pritzker announced Wednesday that bars and restaurants may open for limited outdoor seating starting Friday, May 29. I will try to keep up with posted plans, and get out an early events schedule as a learn about them (Chicago Tribune article).

And, some not-so-good news (maybe): Rather than open along with other establishments in Indiana, Three Floyds brewpub in Munster had furloughed its employees, and not set a date for a possible return. The move has been speculated as based on financial issues, or the Floyds’ slow progress on a new facility, founder Nick Floyd told Josh Noel, “I can’t put people in danger. No one should die over a beer. I would die for beer and probably will, but I’m not going to make people endanger themselves.” The fact that the brewpub only has space for 70 patrons may have contributed to the decision. Three Floyds commercial brewing and distilling operations will continue (Chicago Tribune).

Also of note: This is the last weekend for Brixie’s, the Brookfield beer bar opened in 1934. The bar was purchased by Imperial Oak of Willow Springs, which will be turning it into a second brewery and taproom. Chris DiBraccio had been managing Brixie’s since 2002, taking over from his father-in-law Russel Brixie. DiBraccio is also one of the owners of Imperial Oak. More details below.

I’ve left a space for Monday events for the Memorial Day holiday. Usually holidays are pretty light, beer-wise, but something may be announced at the last-minute.