Pete Crowley lives and breathes Chicago’s West Loop. His Haymarket Pub & Brewery sits just blocks away from the historic location of the riot for which it is named. He’s partnered with Randolph Street locals like Stephanie Izard of Girl & the Goat on beer pairings and special events in the community. And he’s one of the masterminds behind next week’s West Loop Craft Beer Festival.
When asked about the event and the neighborhood, he quickly transforms into the closest thing the beer community has to a proud papa.
“I’m really excited about this year’s West Loop Craft Beer Festival. The location is near and dear to me as it’s only a few blocks from the Historic Haymarket Square, the location of our Brewpub, the Historic Fulton Market District, and too many other amazing restaurants to list here. We are proud of our West Loop neighborhood and look forward to showcasing it for the third year with a craft beer festival that arguably is the best location in the city—with access to Metra, CTA, cabs, hotels, and everything that Chicago has to offer. Whether you make it a day trip or a weekend celebration, this fest is a ‘don’t-miss’ event.”
You’d think that says it all, but there is more exciting news for those venturing out to the fest this year. Haymarket will be pouring a special beer celebrating Pete and his wife Clare’s anniversary. Mash Made in Heaven 8 is a White Peach Wit, made with Belgian yeast, wheat, flaked wheat, and pilsen malt. Spiced with coriander, sweet & bitter orange peel and 120 gallons of white peach juice, the beer is sure to quench your summer thirst.
Pete and his team will also be pouring Toonces #4, the fourth in their single hop series. This newest Toonces is hopped with Cascade. Named for Saturday Night Live’s Toonces the Driving Cat, Haymarket’s beer menu touts, “Toonces can drive!!”
We recommend you let Toonces do the driving, and heed Pete’s suggestions for public transit. The Fest is located off the Clinton Green Line stop, outside the doors of the Metra station, and a block from multiple bus routes.
And if you need one last push to join the fun, take it from Pete, “Put on by locals, supported by the brewers themselves, easy to get to, and for a good cause. I hope to see you on June 13th!”