Cooler evenings bring live music, glowing fire pits and plenty of reasons to linger at Independence Grove Forest Preserve in Libertyville during SeptOberfest, September 2–October 29.

Enjoy lakeside entertainment Wednesday and Thursday evenings with acoustic performances by local musicians playing everything from classic rock and country to folk, Americana and pop. On select dates, unwind with sunset yoga on the beach, a relaxing class designed for beginners.

“SeptOberfest gives visitors a chance to slow down and enjoy autumn at Independence Grove,” said Forest Preserves President Jessica Vealitzek. “The music, lakeside setting and changing colors create a relaxing way to spend an evening outdoors.”

The Beer Garden at Independence Grove is open 5–9 pm Wednesdays and Thursdays and 1–9 pm on weekends through November 1. Its menu features rotating taps from local breweries, along with wine, ciders, cold brew coffee, nonalcoholic drinks and packaged snacks.

Complimentary firewood is available while supplies last at waterfront fire pits, and s’mores kits are available for purchase. Relish Cafe offers light meals and snacks for delivery to Beer Garden tables.

This year’s lineup includes two limited-edition beers created through local partnerships. Trailhead IPA, brewed with Tighthead Brewing Company in Mundelein, is a West Coast-style IPA with bright citrus and pine flavors. Harbor Brewing Company’s 56 Quills: American Pils is a crisp pilsner with a hint of apple. 

Musical Entertainment (6–7:30 pm)

• MAGNEEN plays acoustic rock featuring original songs and familiar covers on Wednesday, September 2.
• Haley Klinkhammer blends acoustic pop, heartfelt songwriting and a touch of nostalgia on Thursday, September 3.
• Maggie and Mark play favorite classic rock, pop and country genres from the ‘70s to today on Wednesday, September 9 and Thursday, October 29.
• Megan Lick entertains with acoustic renditions of well-known favorites alongside overlooked deep cuts on Thursday, September 10.
• A mariachi band will perform Wednesday, September 16.
• Chuck Wilson plays folk and classic rock originals and covers on Thursday, September 17.
• Ironwood presents contemporary folk, rock and Americana on Wednesday, September 23 and Wednesday, October 28.
• Mr. Myers Duo performs favorites on steel drums on Thursday, September 24.
• Ryan Lindsey will present classic rock, country and pop on Wednesday, September 30 and Thursday, October 22.
• Solo guitarist Liz Berg plays pop-rock music on Thursday, October 1.
• Despina blends upbeat, easy-listening acoustic country and folk on Wednesday, October 7.
• Jessica Brown will play acoustic favorites from the ‘60s to today, reimagined for ukulele on Thursday, October 8.
• Mojo Daddies entertain with rock, pop and blues on Wednesday, October 14.
• From folk to rock classics, Jimmy Carroll delivers acoustic covers and originals on Thursday, October 15.
• Stu the Piano Guy will perform classical piano music, rock classics, country and upbeat mainstream hits on Wednesday, October 21.

Yoga

Free Sunset Yoga for beginners takes place on the beach from 6–7 p.m. on Thursday, September 24 and Wednesday, October 7.

Independence Grove Entrance Fee and Beer Garden Details

• Vehicle parking is free for Lake County residents. 
• For weather and entertainment updates, visit LCFPD.org/ig.
• Group rates and reservations are available at the Beer Garden. Email [email protected] for details.

Pets Not Permitted

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

Sponsorship Opportunities

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

Directions

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.

Media Contact: Kim Mikus, 847-968-3202, [email protected]

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