Fall Entertainment Lineup Announced for SeptOberfest

Enjoy live music by local artists, along with various events and programs on Wednesday and Thursday evenings through October at the Lake County Forest Preserves’ SeptOberfest.
Courtesy of Lake County Forest Preserves

As the days cool down, the Lake County Forest Preserves has organized a lineup of entertainment for SeptOberfest at Independence Grove Forest Preserve in Libertyville. Enjoy live music by local artists, along with various events and programs on Wednesday and Thursday evenings through October.

Lakeside fire pits and free firewood are available on a first-come, first-served basis. S’mores kits are also on hand for purchase. Hungry guests can grab a light dinner, snack or beverage from the walk-up cafe, supplied by Relish Catering at Independence Grove. For added convenience, guests can order directly from their table, and their food will be delivered to them.

Fire pits are available to use during SeptOberfest when an array of entertainment and programs are offered.
Courtesy of Lake County Forest Preserves

Throughout SeptOberfest, the Beer Garden at Independence Grove is open 5-9 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday and 1-9 p.m. on Friday, Saturday, Sunday and holidays. The venue features an array of local craft beers on tap from Lake County breweries. Wine, ciders, nonalcoholic beverages, cold brew coffee and packaged snacks are also available. Beer flights and tastings are included in the offerings.

“The Beer Garden has become a go-to destination for outdoor relaxation and enjoyment,” said Angelo Kyle, president of the Lake County Forest Preserves. “With its stunning views of the 129-acre lake, it’s an ideal place for families to gather and savor the transition into fall.”

Upcoming musical entertainment, from 6-7:30 p.m.:

• Thursday, Sept. 26: Guitarist and singer-songwriter Chuck Wilson.

• Thursday, Oct. 3: The Complex performs rock and pop from the ’50s to present.

• Wednesday, Oct. 9: Singer James Bruebach will perform rock and country.

• Thursday, Oct. 10: Ryan Lindsey will present classic rock, country and pop.

• Wednesday, Oct. 16: Megan Lick plays acoustic covers.

• Thursday, Oct. 17: Singer-songwriter Brett Ratner returns with acoustic guitar.

• Wednesday, Oct. 23: Ryan Lindsey will perform classic rock, country and pop.

• Thursday, Oct. 24: Singer and guitarist James Bruebach will return to perform rock and country.

• Wednesday, Oct. 30: Donna Brooks and Ironwood present contemporary and folk-rock-Americana.

Other programs:

• 5:30–7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25: Trivia Night

• 5-6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 2: Enjoy Hike & Hops and learn facts about nature. Registration required.

• 6–7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 31: Halloween party, DJ and costume contest for all ages

Vehicle parking is free for Lake County residents. Nonresidents are charged $12 per car on weekends and holidays. For weather and entertainment updates, view the status map at lcfpd.org/check-status-of-independence-grove-activities.

Bring your own blanket and lawn chairs. Group rates and reservations are available at the Beer Garden. Email IndependenceGrove@LCFPD.org for details and pricing.

With the exception of service animals, dogs, horses and other pets are not permitted at Independence Grove.

If you are interested in learning about sponsorship opportunities, contact the Preservation Foundation of the Lake County Forest Preserves at (847) 968-3110.

The entrance to Independence Grove is located on Buckley Road (Route 137) just east of Milwaukee Avenue (Route 21) and west of River Road in Libertyville.