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. If you're hungry, grab a light dinner, snack or beverage from the walk-up café, brought to you by Relish Catering at Independence Grove. For added convenience, order directly from your table, and your food will be delivered to you.  

Throughout SeptOberfest, the Beer Garden at Independence Grove is open 5–9 pm Wednesday and Thursday and 1–9 pm on Friday, Saturday, Sunday and holidays. The venue features an array of  local craft beers on tap from Lake County breweries. Wine, ciders, non-alcoholic 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.”

Musical Entertainment (6–7:30 pm)

• Solo guitarist Liz Berg performs pop rock music on Thursday, September 5.
• Enjoy the vibrant sounds of mariachi by the Cielito Lindo family on Thursday, September in advance of Mexican Independence Day.
• Singer-songwriter Brett Ratner plays acoustic guitar on Wednesday, September 18.
• Mojo Daddies from Libertyville and Grayslake will perform rock, pop and blues on Thursday, September 19. 
• Chuck Wilson, a guitarist and singer-songwriter, plays on Thursday, September 26.
• The Complex performs rock and pop from the '50s to present on Thursday, October  3.
• Singer James Bruebach will perform rock and country on Wednesday, October 9.
• Ryan Lindsey will present classic rock, country and pop on Thursday, October 10. 
• Megan Lick plays acoustic covers on Wednesday, October 16.
• Singer-songwriter Brett Ratner returns with acoustic guitar on Thursday, October 17.
• Ryan Lindsey will perform classic rock, country and pop on Wednesday, October 23.
• Singer and guitarist James Bruebach will return to perform  rock and country Thursday, October 24.
• Donna Brooks and Ironwood present contemporary and folk-rock-Americana on Wednesday, October 30.

Programs

• Trivia Night takes place 5:30–7 pm, Wednesday, September 25. 
• Enjoy Hike & Hops on Wednesday, October 2 from 5 - 6:30 PM and learn facts about nature. Registration required.
• Halloween Party, DJ and Costume Contest for all ages 6–7:30 pm, Thursday, October 31.

Independence Grove Entrance Fee and Beer Garden Details

• Vehicle parking is free for Lake County residents. Nonresidents are charged $12 per car on weekends and holidays. 
• For weather and entertainment updates, view status map here.
• 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.

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. 

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