Emma Jones
Get Ready to Raise Your Glasses and Sizzle Your Senses
If you’re someone who appreciates good food, fine spirits, and lively atmosphere, then clear your schedule! The annual ‘Brats, Bourbon and Brews’ festival is making its comeback in Joliet next week. This much-anticipated event ticks all the boxes, providing an experience that’s intoxicatingly immersive and entertaining. Gather your friends and family for a day out and get ready to awaken your taste buds, while immersing yourself in a swirl of flavors and fun. Yes, it’s the time of year when Joliet becomes the epitome of epicurean eden!
Brats: More than a Wurst Affair
You’ve probably already guessed it; brats here signify ‘bratwurst’. This traditional German sausage has become a quintessential part of American street fests and backyard barbecues. In Joliet’s ‘Brats, Bourbon and Brews’ festival, a plethora of food stalls and trucks will be serving delectable and juicy bratwursts. Whether you prefer them grilled, sautéed, tossed in a spicy sauce, topped with onions, or for the real food aficionados, wrapped in bacon, there’s a brat for every palate. Not to forget, there will also be a selection of other mouthwatering treats to compliment your bratwurst fest.
Wieners of the Sausage Showdown
As part of the celebrations, some of the topnotch local eateries, bakers and butchers are set to take each other on in what has come to be known as ‘The Sausage Showdown’. Each year, this competition introduces a new offering to the ever-increasing menu of creative bratwurst concoctions. So, grab your forks and witness some culinary creativity at its best!
Bourbon: A Distilled Delight
If you’re a fan of this Southern classic, you’re in luck! Dozens of distilleries from across the country, including some local favorites, are lining up to showcase their finest bourbon offerings. Get ready to sip and savor, as you can sample a selection of smooth, rich and full-flavored bourbons. From deep amber to golden honey hues, from stand-alone sippers to cocktail confections, the festival’s bourbon tasting pavilion guarantees a prize pour for every preference.
Best of Bourbon – Showcasing the Finery of Whiskey
Don’t miss the ‘Best of Bourbon’ presentation, highlighting the immaculate craft of whiskey-making. Experienced distillers will be on hand, offering an in-depth understanding of the process, from grain selection to aging and bottling. Plus, there’ll be an opportunity to purchase your favorite bottles directly from the distilleries.
Brews: Raising the Bar
Couple your fantastic food fare with a selection of refreshing brews. The Joliet event will showcase an incredible range of craft beers, featuring local breweries and international favorites. This forms a remarkable platform for beer enthusiasts to discover new flavors, discuss brewing techniques, and engage with the creators behind these amazing beverages.
The Brew-Off – A Hoppy Happy Hour
Witness the ‘Brew-Off’, where local breweries go head to head to impress visitors with their distinctive pours. Participate in the tasting, vote for your favorites, and be part of the excitement of crowning the ‘Brew of the Year’.
A Delicious Day Out
The ‘Brats, Bourbon, and Brews’ festival is more than just about indulging in food, drinks and gastronomical delights. It’s also about soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, the live music, the camaraderie, and the spirit of celebration that comes with it. With the festive season fast approaching, there’s no better way to kickstart your holidays in Joliet!
