The history of improbably successful and long-lasting 70s prog band Nektar is a complicated one. The story starts in 1968, when four British lads–guitarist-singer Roye Albrighton, keyboardist-vocalist Allan Freeman, bassist-singer-Mellotron player Derek Moore, and drummer Ron Howden–met at the Star Club in Hamburg (where another group of British lads, the Beatles, famously cut their teeth). They’d been playing in different bands in Germany since 1965, and they bonded over their mutual love of the Fab Four and the new avant-garde directions rock music was taking. They formed Nektar in 1969, and by the following year they’d added fifth member Mick Brockett, who operated their heady light show and occasionally helped with lyrics and titles. Their first LP, 1971’s Journey to the Center of the Eye, remains a fine example of the psychedelic concept album: its single epic song, which fills both sides of the album, is about an astronaut given vast knowledge by aliens (naturally) and verges on what many would call “experimental Krautrock” these days. The 1972 release A Tab in the Ocean furthered Nektar’s cult appeal while streamlining their sound into more conventional psychedelic-progressive rock a la Pink Floyd and Yes. In the mid-70s, as Nektar became more melodic–even touching on funky rhythms–they found some commercial success while still exploring sci-fi themes. They broke into the top 20 on U.S. charts with 1973’s Remember the Future, and the following year Down to Earth landed in the Top 40. The entire band moved to the States in 1976, but before and after releasing their slick 1978 major-label debut, Magic Is the Child, they underwent a series of lineup changes, and in the early 80s they called it quits. Now fast-forward to the year 2000, when Nektar re-emerged with a new album, The Prodigal Son. The next year, the classic lineup headlined the popular prog festival NEARfest. After a zillion more personnel changes and tours with various members, Albrighton died in 2016, but Moore and Howden (both based in New Jersey) and Brockett (in Pennsylvania) nonetheless vowed to celebrate the band’s 50th anniversary. Last year they holed up and tackled some old demos as well as some new tunes for a new LP called The Other Side, which suffers slightly from overly tasty playing and production but still hints at their monumental past glories. On their current tour, Nektar are rumored to be revisiting sounds from their earliest LPs. With former Fireballet guitarist Ryche Chlanda back in the band (he joined briefly in 1978, as a 21-year-old wunderkind) and Brockett resuming his old-school live-light-show duties, this show promises to be once-in-a-lifetime heady space-prog trip, so climb aboard while you can. v
The members of Detroit art-rock group Saajtak met at the University of Michigan in the early 2010s, when all four participated in an improvising ensemble called the Creative Arts Orchestra. They’ve since carried the experimental traditions they explored as students into their work in Saajtak and into their individual creative pursuits–each has developed such an impressive career that their CVs could fill a chapbook. Bassist Ben Willis composes music for dancers in a theater troupe called Nerve; percussionist Jon Taylor reframes ancestral Eastern European Jewish songs in new-music compositions as part of the ensemble Teiku; electronics maestro Simon Alexander-Adams has presented his multimedia art at Coachella; and vocalist Alex Koi has performed at the Toronto Jazz Festival. In Saatjak, they build off improvised sessions to create bristling, quasi-operatic recordings that feel primed to shift unexpectedly and travel down an entirely different path at any moment. They’ve made a point of documenting their creative possibilities and showcasing their open-minded attitude in the process; 2019’s self-released If You Ask EP includes two original songs, three remixes, and an acoustic interpretation of the title track. On the original “If You Ask,” Saajtak transform a minimal, undulating rhythm and an avian vocal harmony into a thunderous, dramatic rock symphony led by Koi’s acrobatic powerhouse singing; it enlivens the song’s most fragile moments with a feral energy that could power a fleet of lesser bands. v
Memphis musicians enjoy a well-deserved reputation for having more going on beneath the surface than they initially let on. Alex Chilton, Tav Falco, and Jim Dickinson are known for putting a trashy stamp on roots music in their songwriting, but they also incorporate outside influences at unpredictable times. Such is also the case with the Reigning Sound, led by singer-guitarist Greg Cartwright–a founding member of the Oblivians, a trio that deconstructs blues and punk until they sound nearly avant-garde. Though the Reigning Sound, which Cartwright launched in 2001, are far more earthbound, they also have many dimensions. Where the Oblivians use the blues as a touchstone, the Reigning Sound draw on Memphis’s soul legacy, and much like the garage bands that came from the city in the 1960s (the Gentrys, the Box Tops), they can incorporate that influence without camping things up. On their most recent studio album, 2014’s Shattered, Cartwright’s vocals sound like Van Morrison circa 1967, after he left Them but before the jazzy textures of Astral Weeks. While soul is front and center, a folk-rock strain runs through a significant portion of the record–and remarkably, it never sinks into lazy introspection. Cartwright’s message to the world sounds powerful even confined to a record, and he burns like a candle onstage. v
Psalm Zero have been playing a hybrid form of industrial metal informed by the noisier side of dark and electronic music since forming in New York in 2012. Originally the duo of multi-instrumentalist Charlie Looker (a classical composer and cofounder of experimental bands Extra Life and Zs) and guitarist Andrew Hock, the group showcased synth-heavy avant-rock compositions on their first two albums, 2014’s The Drain and 2016’s Stranger to Violence (both on Profound Lore). But shortly after the release of Stranger to Violence, Looker parted ways with Hock after Hock was accused of sexual assault. That decision forced Looker to cancel several previously scheduled tour dates, but he retained the Psalm Zero name and continued to write material for the band while occasionally collaborating with friends. The band’s new album, Sparta (on Looker’s Last Things imprint), features bassist Ron Varod and drummer Keith Abrams, known for their work with New York avant-garde/progressive metal group Kayo Dot (who headline this tour in support of their own new full-length, Blasphemy). Sparta feels more clear-hearted and intentional than Psalm Zero’s earlier records, perhaps as a result of Looker reassessing his approach after Hock’s departure. Whatever the reason, Sparta is an evolution: though the band’s roots in industrial metal and darkwave are still perceptible, a stronger sense of storytelling comes through on tracks such as “Return to Stone” (with guest vocals from Kristin Hayer, aka Lingua Ignota) and “Animal Outside.” Looker’s earnest-sounding singing on the latter recall Violator-era Dave Gahan, and make me wonder if this could’ve been an alternative-pop chart hit had it been released in 1990. It seems likely that Psalm Zero are just going to grow from here, so this show is a good chance to see them on their way up. v
There is still an assortment of unique beers at the Beerhead Bar & Eatery chain, the result of their “Collab AF” promotion with 37 different brewers in four states. Yeah, they say the “AF” means “All February.”
Alonzo King, Beerhead Beer Director
I has a chance to sit with Elonzo King, Beerhead’s Beer Director at their Elmhurst restaurant, where we talked about (and drank) some of the 26 beers they made in collaboration with several Illinois breweries.
“Every beer we put on tap was a representative of a certain style,” Elonzo explained. “We could have asked for seven or eight IPAs, separated only by Northeastern or fruity styles. But was also wanted to see representation for milk stouts, pastry stouts and meads, whatever people might seek out. We wanted this to be an authentic, informative experience.”
The collaboration idea was hatched last year, and Beerhead brought the idea to all the brewers near their restaurant locations. “There was a lot of positive response to the idea. For one reason, we would be buying the end result directly from them. Some of the brewers couldn’t take part because their operation was too big to make just a six, seven, eight barrel batch.
”We asked each brewer to pick out five of 50 possible styles,” Elonzo said. “Then we went over each of the choices to narrow out duplication of style, and to see how the brewers could showcase their strengths, or to work with a kind of beer that was new to them.”
The resulting beers proved to be all over the map: there were brews intended to exemplars or their style, like an ESB, Belgian Quad, Czech Pils or Red Ale. There were also plenty of experimental or otherwise oddball beers, like Crystal Lake’sMidnight Rambler Black IPA, a raspberry seltzer from Odd Side Ales, or Hoppin’ Frog’sChocolate Covered Strawberry Stout.
Elonzo walked me through a tray of some of the collars, paired with some of their spicy meatballs, and then a “Campfire Pizza,” a pizza crust baked with marshmallows, chocolate sauce and Nutella.
AlemanYoungMan
A straightforward stout, inspired by Young’s Chocolate Stout, made with chocolate roast malts, but no chocolate. There was also a slight note of coffee, and this just might have been improved by a nitro tap, but this was a nice step outside the box for this itinerant Chicago brewer.
PollyannaAbracadabricot A saison made with Kveik yeast, hops from Michigan and France, and then apricots. Elonzo said he thought the Kveik already gave it a stone fruit character. I found more apricot in the palate, but the finish did kind of dry out in the end. Apricot can overpower a beer, but this style met the fruit on its own terms.
Illuminated Brew WorksMillennial Munchies The most “out there” of the local beers, this was a “Pastry Stout” inspired by a Zagnut bar. The inspiration came in the form of coconut, peanut butter powder, marshmallow, and chocolate malt. I’ve managed to enjoy a few coconut beers, but for once this one went overboard. But that seems to be the way of pastry stouts. My philosophy if I didn’t care for a beer like this, was that you may like it, so go right ahead.
B. NektarCordial Hoptimist A mead based on orange blossom honey, with added cocoa nibs, vanilla and tart cherries, then dry-hopped with Santiago hops. Served sparkling, this one bridged that tenuous gap between a mead and a milk stout. I could not nail down specific tastes, but instead enjoyed the whole thing.
We wrapped up with some sweet dessert beers to go with the Campfire Pizza, and discussed whether you should match sweet desserts to sweet beers, or contrast with something hoppy.
TemperanceOatmeal Raisin Old Ale Uses macerated dried plums instead of raisins, along with flaked oats, brown sugar, and vanilla. One of the few oatmeal-based beers I’ve found to actually taste like oatmeal, otherwise it’s added for smoothness. Definitely a “cookie stout,” which I guess I can enjoy a little better than a pastry stout.
Wild OnionDouble Puft An imperial brown ale with extra malt and marshmallow. This had a light nose for an imperial style, but then marshmallow by itself doesn’t have a very strong smell. Alcohol impression is not that strong, but then again, this was my last of seven tasters.
The restaurant also installed some “outside” collaborations, like Dogfish Head’s Grateful Dead Collaboration, American Beauty, Tighthead’sLongsnapper collab with Chicago Bear Patrick Mannelly, and Florida’s Hidden Springs,Banana in the Tailpipe, a Berliner Weisse with coconut, a collaboration with Barrel Culture Brewing of North Carolina. I bring this one up because it was one of the samples Elonzo had poured for me. It had very little sourness for the style, but a lot of what seemed like banana-flavored marshmallow. Dipped in pineapple juice.
The beer menu list only had a few items stamped “Keg Kicked,” but that is likely to increase as the end of the promotion draws near. Elonzo said he has been trying to get extra kegs from the brewers, but some of the liked the results so much, they put them on draft at their own tap rooms. Both the restaurant and the brewers might be expected to repeat the collaboration in the future.
Beerhead has locations in Elmhurst, Vernon Hills and Schaumburg, Illinois, with five other franchises in Ohio, New York and Michigan. The beer-centered chain keeps up to 50 beers on tap and a large selection of packaged beers, with crowlers where permitted.
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Meet The Blogger
Mark McDermott
Writer, trivia maven, fan of many things. I thought to learn all there is to know about beer as a way to stay interested in learning. It is my pleasure to bring Chicago’s craft beer scene to you.
The ChicagoBears released a pair of veterans on Friday. Here’s why the moves were the right decision.
It turns out the freezing temperatures aren’t the only thing leaving Chicago this weekend.
In an unsurprising move, the Chicago Bears announced that veteran cornerback Prince Amukamara and wide receiver Taylor Gabriel will be released by the Bears, ending their tenure with the team.
Amukamara spent three seasons in Chicago, playing in all but four games. Gabriel spent the last two in the blue and orange, missing seven games due to concussions in 2020.
While the Bears have numerous other options in the secondary, it’s possible that they’ll turn to the 2020 NFL Draft to add depth to the receiving core given this year’s receiving talent in the Draft.
Given that both players are 30 and 29 years old, respectively, it’s an opportunity for the Bears to get a bit younger at both positions. It’s also a beneficial move for the two players themselves, as they’ll have a bit more time in searching for a new team for 2020 and beyond.
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Perhaps most importantly, the move frees up $13.5 million in cap space for the Bears according to Spotrac. That’s a sizable increase in cap relief, basically doubling their total cap space to $27 million.
Though it’s not certain how exactly the Bears will spend their $27 million, rumors began to swirl on Thursday that the Bears could be targeting veteran quarterback Derek Carr. The soon-to-be 29 year old QB carries a cap hit of around $20-21 million in the three years remaining on his contract.
The rumors were further fueled by a cryptic Instagram post from Carr, hugging former teammate turned Chicago Bear Khalil Mack. Fans immediately began to speculate of a potential reunion.
With just under a month remaining until the start of the 2020 League Year, there will be plenty of time to speculate on the Bears moves for 2020. Until then, Bears fans will have no shortage of rumors and Instagram posts to pick apart.
The road to state has been released. Every team knows its playoff path after the brackets were released earlier today. I usually have some initial impressions but nothing really jumped out at me.
Seeing all the sectionals generally takes all the steam out of the regular season but there were some fun conference races decided tonight. And two other very notable things…
Indian Creek pulled it off. The Timberwolves finished the regular season a perfect 30-0. Drew Gaston scored 16 and Cooper Larsen added 15 in a 67-38 win against Somonauk tonight.
Also, seems worth noting that Manteno (ignored by the notebook all season) won it first conference title in 23 years.
Friday’s top games
Benet 43, St. Viator 40: The Redwings pick up another win on their late-season gauntlet. They still face Stevenson and St. Charles North before the playoffs begin.
Yorkville 49, Oswego 44: Interesting result here. The Foxes win it on the road.
Mundelein 63, Lake Zurich 41: The Mustangs are going to be an interesting case when it comes to the All-Area team. Conor Enright (14 points, seven assists) and Scottie Ebube (11 points, seven rebounds) have been very consistent this season.
Oak Lawn 55, Reavis 36: David Reyes scored 20 and Trey Ward had 14 for the Spartans, who have been out of the spotlight for awhile now. It will be interesting to see how they fare in the playoffs.
Hinsdale South 59, Addison Trail 50: The Hornets are 72-3 and conference champs. Aaron Tims scored 20 and Billy Durkin added 14.
Eisenhower 63, Argo 48: Jemel Jones scored 23 for the 22-6 Cardinals.
York 33, Hinsdale Central 29: It’s the first conference title since 2006 for the Dukes. Vince Doran got a bath…
Loyola 57, Fenwick 49: Matt Enghauser had 17 and Bennett Kwiecinski 14 as the Ramblers clinch the conference title on road. Bryce Hopkins scored 23 for the Friars.
Evanston 61, Glenbrook South 60 OT: Blake Peters had 16 and it sounds like Dom Martinelli was a bit hobbled but still scored 30 for the Titans.
Lockport 52, Lincoln-Way East 41: Really nice win for the Porters, who scored 21 in the fourth quarter. They had 12 assists on 18 buckets.
Waubonsie Valley 35, Naperville Central 32: Marcus Skeete wins it on a buzzer beater for the second consecutive game.
Schaumburg 35, Palatine 21: The Saxons win the MSL West.
St. Charles East 80, Wheaton North 73: The Saints have an interesting road in the playoffs and are pretty hot, 15-2 in 2020. The losses are to St. Charles North and Benet.
DePaul Prep 65, St. Ignatius 35: TY Johnson puts up 21 as the Rams dominate and put some points on the board. Brian Mathews had 16 points, 10 rebounds and five blocks.
Andrew 68, Lincoln-Way Central 48: Hmm. The Thunderbolts open my eyes a bit with this one. Noah O’Connor scored 21 and they are 16-10.
Tinley Park 76, TF South 71: Sophomore AJ Casey scores a career-high 40 points and grabes 11 rebounds.
Pitchfork Music Festival is one of the most anticipated events in Chicago, and it brings in crowds from all over. This year, Pitchfork 2020 is ahead of the game, with eclectic lineups that feature diehard favorites and newcomers you’ll be glad to discover.
We’ve got all the important deets on this amazing festival, scheduled for July 17 – 19, because we know you want in on the fun.
The fest takes place every year in the Near West Side at Union Park, propped right in the middle of the triangular intersections of Ashland, Lake, and Ogden. If you’re taking the ‘L’, the Green or Pink Line to Ashland/Lake station is right on the northwest corner of the park. Parking availability is highly unlikely, so biking or taking a Lyft are recommended as well.
Entry Rules
Pitchfork 2020 is an all-ages fest. Make sure you’ve got everything you need from home because there’s absolutely no re-entry into the fest if you choose to leave. Feel free to bring non-professional cameras, backpacks, a sealed bottled water, and lawn chairs. Tents, flags, musical instruments, selfie sticks, and your pets are a big ‘NO.’ Lockers are available for your belongings.
What to Wear
Pitchfork 2020 is a rain-or-shine event, but don’t let a little drizzle get you down; some rain dances during your favorite set are sure to help turn it around for you. Shorts, tank tops, short sleeves, and sundresses are appropriate for this peak summer month, but hats, closed-toe shoes, and raincoats are advised for bad weather. If you get wet, stop by the Buffalo Exchange, Futurgarb, or Transit Tees booths to pick up something dry.
When you need a break from jammin’ at the stages, check out some of the many tasty food vendors on site, such as Black Dog Gelato, Bang Bang Pie, Leghorn Chicken, and Wow Bao. Learn about a good cause at a non-profit booth like Girls Rock! Chicago or One Tail at a Time. Want to make a difference? Spend time talking with Pitchfork’s partner this year, RAINN, the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization. Plenty of local artists will be displaying their work, as well as a pop-up craft festival, book fair, and record shop. Talk about sensory overload!
Where to Stay
If you don’t live in Chicago, first of all—we’re sorry. You’re missing out. Second, don’t worry because we’ve got great places for you to crash. Partnered hotels include the Chicago Marriott at Medical District, which is closest to the fest. Others are the Chicago Athletic Association, Hyatt Regency, and the Hard Rock Hotel. Maybe you’ll run into one of the headliners after it ends! If those are a little out of budget, you can always rent an Airbnb in the area.
Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Angel Olsen, The Fiery Furnaces, Jehnny Beth, Deafheaven, Waxahatchee, Tim Hecker & The Konoya Ensemble, SOPHIE, Fennesz, Hop Along, Dehd, SPELLING, KAINA, Femdot
Saturday, July 18
Run the Jewels, Sharon Van Etton, Twin Peaks, Danny Brown, Thundercat, Cat Power, Tierra Whack, BADBADNOTGOOD, Dave, Oso Oso, Diving Niño, Boy Scouts, Ezra Collective, Margaux
Sunday, July 19
The National, Big Thief, Kim Gordon, Phoebe Bridgers, Yaeji, Caroline Polachek, DJ Nate, Maxo Kream, Rapsody, Faye Webster, Mariah the Scientist, Dogleg, The Hecks, Dustin Laurenzi’s Snaketime
For tickets and more info, head to the Pitchfork Music Festival website. We can’t wait to see you at Pitchfork 2020!
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The end of February is here, and that can only mean one thing: the MLB is back! Every ball club officially reported for spring training earlier this past week. But there’s one team we’ve got our eyes on.
The Chicago Cubs spring training program kicked off last Sunday when the team arrived in Mesa, Arizona. In Arizona, the Cubs home field is located at Sloan Park. Fans are welcome to attend workouts during the day where they can interact with players. The team will also compete as a member of the Cactus League while they prepare for the upcoming season. Here’s what you can expect at this year’s Cubs spring training!
Chicago Cubs Spring Training
In an off-season filled with plenty of rumors about the future of this team, the Cubs enter spring training with the remainder of their core still intact. Many speculated the future of third basemen, Kris Bryant, who is up for an extension in 2021. But it doesn’t look like he’s going anywhere, as it was recently reported that Bryant would start as the leadoff hitter. This decision came from a somewhat new face to the Chicago Cubs, manager David Ross. While Ross isn’t exactly new to this team, he is new to the manager role, and he’s got some big shoes to fill after the team cut ties with Joe Maddon after last season. Speaking of Maddon, he currently manages the Los Angeles Angels, who are also scheduled to play the Cubs on March 2nd. Other notable games during the Cubs spring training include two match-ups with the White Sox on March 6th and 13th.
As far as new faces to look out for, there’s quite a few of them. The Cubs acquired a few RHPs over the off-season through trades and signings. In separate deals with the A’s and Dodgers, the team added Jharel Cotton and Casey Sadler. Pitchers Jeremy Jeffress and Ryan Tepera also signed one-year deals with the team. Some prospects to look out for on this team are SS Nico Hoerner, LHP Brailyn Marquez, OF Brennan Davis, and C Miguel Amaya. These youngsters will have a chance to earn a starting spot over the next month.
Photo Credit: Chicago Cubs Instagram
The Chicago Cubs’ first game of spring training is scheduled for this Saturday, February 22nd against the A’s. It won’t be long before the team takes the field for opening day on March 26th against the Brewers!
Baseball. Is. Back.
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Grab Your Tickets to the Best St. Patrick’s Day Bar Parties in Chicago
Every year, Chicagoans go all out for St. Patrick’s Day. We dye our river green. We drink our beer green. We all dress up in green. Especially if we’re not Irish.
Green Curtain Events is a premier entertainment and events organizer in Chicago, and they’re the masterminds behind all of the best St. Patrick’s Day bar parties. Some of the best bars in Chicago are in on it, too, including Fatpour, LiqrBox, Whiskey Business, Woodie’s Flat, and more! Though technically St. Patrick’s Day is on Tuesday, March 17, this year’s parties mostly fall on Saturday, March 14, so you can make the most of your weekend. Make your St. Patrick’s Day plans before tickets sell out!
Photo Credit: Green Curtain Events
Bounce Sporting Club | 324 W Chicago Ave
Bounce Sporting Club is sure to deliver all an energetic party crowd is looking for this Chicago St. Patrick’s Day. Experience a wide variety of Table Selections, Video Plasma Walls, Light Shows, and a Premier Crowd at this early morning Irish banger.
“Slainte!” It’s pronounced “Slaan-sha”… and it’s all going down at The VIG this St. Paddy’s holiday. Join the who’s who of the Chicago party scene as we toast to an Irish encounter like no other at this wildly popular attraction in Old Town.
You’ll find the ultimate Irish tailgate scene at Broken Barrel Bar this St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago. The neighborhood staple will feature a premier crowd, party antics, multi-room format, and vast array of group table packages for reserve.
At Clutch, experience the premier St. Paddy’s Day kickoff! This River North hot spot will feature second to none ambiance, production, energy, and service for a morning celebration you won’t want to miss.
St. Patrick himself wouldn’t miss out on the celebration that’s brewing at Concrete Cowboy. Giddy Up! And get there early, as this River North attraction kicks off the biggest party day in Chicago with an 8 am Irish drink & appetizer package, oversized booths for reserve, dedicated dance floor, and floor-to-ceiling natural lit windows.
Tickets: Sold Out, Tables Available Starting at $325+
Photo Credit: Green Curtain Events
Fatpour Wicker Park | 2005 W Division St
It’s time to “Pour Some Paddy’s On Me” with a two-story madhouse at Fatpour (Wicker Park). Where over-the-top antics, Irish party scene, and more are sure to satisfy all in attendance. Let a wide table selection and even private-room-accommodations suit your group needs with arguably the best location in Chicago.
Get ready for the “South Side Irish Pride Party”, which can only be found at the latest sensation to hit Chicago’s South Loop: Fatpour (McCormick)! Guests can rock out with floor-to-ceiling windows, video plasma walls, group table packages, and a premier Irish-party-ambiance.
Get Your Green On this St. Paddy’s at Hopsmith. With multiple floors of crowd-pleasing amenities, retractable skylight roof, and floor to ceiling windows… this Gold Coast spotlight is the epitome of an Irish eruption. Luxury Table Packages and a Premier Crowd will all lead the way for a St. Paddy’s Celebration second to none.
Tickets: Sold Out, Tables Available Starting at $250+
Photo Credit: Green Curtain Events
Houndstooth | 3369 N Clark St
Houndstooth Saloon is serving up everything a wild party-crowd could be looking for this Chicago St. Patrick’s Day. Where new style and old vibes collide perfectly at this friendly attraction in Wrigleyville. Irish antics, tables for reserve, and even private rooms for large group accommodations are now on tap at Houndstooth!
From the moment you walk in… you’ll soon realize why Everyone’s Chi-rish atIrish Oak. Wrigleyville’s ultimate party destination pairs traditional Irish heritage with a modern whiskey throw-down featuring party antics, table service, group accommodations, and so much more. Every day is St. Patrick’s Day at Irish Oak… but it’s not every day a party like THIS happens.
LiqrBox will be taking their Irish celebration to a whole new level this Chicago St. Patrick’s Day. With an unparalleled light show, a wide range of table selection, and multiple floors of pure madness… giving all in attendance an “out-of-the-box” experience for the #1 party day in Chicago.
Lay your St. Patrick’s Day party-foundation down at Parlor (Wicker Park)! Where top of the line food & beverage magnificence collide with an expansive venue space, premier crowd, and exterior patio scene sure to please all party goers. The party kicks off early for this Wicker Park neighborhood favorite.
Test your luck at Logan Square’s premier party venue! The Whale will be kicking it off early this St. Patrick’s Day with a mornin’ food & appetizer package. Enjoy a hint of class with your Irish celebration, premier service, and trendy tables for reserve; not to mention a party crowd to match!
It’s a “Chi-rish Invasion” at Whiskey Business, one of Wicker Park’s most popular St. Paddy’s destinations! Featuring Luxury Table Packages for Reserve, Outdoor Party Patio, Irish Drink & Meal Package, and a Premier Crowd topping off Chicago’s wildest party day of the year.
Retro vinyl gets an Irish makeover this Chicago St. Patrick’s Day at Woodie’s in Old Town. Positioned on arguably one of the finest party blocks in the city, all three floors will be slamming with Irish drinks, bites, and a whole lot more. If you’re looking to be entertained… Woodie’s is sure to start you up, and won’t let you down.
Tickets: Sold Out, Tables Available Starting at $350+
Photo Credit: Green Curtain Events
Merchant | 3137 W Logan Blvd
Already known as Logan Square’s “all day bar”… Merchant will be kicking it off early this St. Patrick’s Day with a mornin’ food & drink package. Find your Irish happy place here and celebrate one of Chicago’s favorite days of the year.
Utopian Tailgate is Chicago’s greatest rooftop party scape located in the heart of Old Town. Let an indoor/outdoor whimsical venue rock your St. Paddy’s celebration on Chicago’s favorite party day of the year. Equipped with an electric Dance Party Avenue, Skyline Views, and Group Table Packages, guests will experience a premier celebration in charismatic style.
Tickets: Sold Out, Tables Available Starting at $250+
Photo Credit: Green Curtain Events
Trophy Room | 170 W Ontario St
It’s Trophy Room for the Win this St. Patrick’s Day Chicago! Sports Lounge meets Day Club at this wildly popular River North attraction for an early mornin’ Irish throw-down like no other.
Clover is a neighborhood bar with an old-school feel, and you’ll love their prime location off of Grand Ave in Chicago’s River West to start your St. Patrick’s Day celebration. It doesn’t get much more “Irish” than Clover, and the party doesn’t get much better anywhere in Chicago either!
A whiskey lover’s dream, Rebel & Rye is the newest gem in River West and now your favorite spot to start your St Patrick’s Day celebration. It’s a high-class encounter featuring music, select table service, group accommodations, and so much more.
In the tradition of a great American bar, this neighborhood spotlight will host the ultimate St Paddy’s Day in the heart of historic, Roscoe Village. The Reveler, a state-of-the-art gathering spot with a vast array of plasma TVs, floor-to-ceiling windows, wide selection of table packages and even private-room-accommodations has all your party group could be looking for with a celebration like no other.
Celtic Crown is Chicago’s quintessential Irish watering hole. The lucky day brings you multiple rustic rooms to party like a hooligan, traditional music, giveaways and more. Belly up to the bar or settle in serious with one of our many group table packages for reserve.
No neighborhood parties quite like Wrigleyville, and that’s exactly where you’ll find yourself to kick off the biggest bar day of the year at Trace. Early morning banger meets Late night neon with one of the best morning drink packages Chicago has to offer. Not to mention table packages, large group accommodations, and unique party avenues to top it off.
Chicago’s party reputation sets the bar at the Irish icon in the heart of Wrigleyville, Full Shilling. Go for the Gold and Go All Out with a four-hour drink & appetizer package featuring your classic Irish favorites and antics.
Carve up some fun at the appropriately named Butcher’s Tap, one of Wrigleyville’s finest tap houses in the Windy City and home to a St. Paddy’s morning celebration like no other. Multi-floors and party avenues will be of plenty, as well as a vast selection of table packages to accommodate party groups of all sizes.
Wanna know what’s it like to attend a Green Curtain Events St. Patrick’s Day extravaganza? Peep the video below to check out last year’s St. Patrick’s Day bar parties.
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