Sample summer's flavors at Lombard Ale Fest

Summer beers and ales -- as ready for the season as anyone who spent winter in the Chicago area -- will be in plentiful supply at the third annual Lombard Ale Fest.

More than 80 craft beers and ales produced by 40 breweries, both local and farther flung, will be available for sampling Saturday, June 11, in the village's downtown, near the Metra station and Lilacia Park.

"Beer changes with the seasons," said Josh Seago, president and founder of Lou Dog Events, the company presenting the fest. "The summer features lighter, crisper, easier-to-drink beers. There's really a nice selection of brewers."

Two Lombard brewers, Flesk Brewing and Noon Whistle Brewing, will offer their summer selections.

Other Chicago-area brewers at the event will include Pollyanna, Lunar, Penrose, Emmett's, 51st Ward, Two Brothers, Revolution and Lagunitas. There also will be brewers from Colorado, Maine, Hawaii and California, along with hard cider options from Crispin and Angry Orchard.

The event is a fundraiser for several nonprofit groups, including the Glenbard East High School Athletic Boosters and Lombard Town Centre, a group dedicated to preserving and promoting the village's core.

Bob Difino is the event coordinator and a member of the booster club.

"We have five area food vendors and three live bands," Difino said. "Last year we had 1,600 guests. It's a great venue that has plenty of space. We draw from all over the DuPage County area."

Bands on the bill include the Enablurz, Whiskey Creek and The Midlothian Pipe Band, Difino said.

Difino said the festival's proximity to the Metra station makes it convenient for public transit riders to attend.

The boosters will put the funds raised toward paying down the loans for the high school's turf field, he said.

Should rain develop, Seago said, fest visitors can stay dry under the festival tents.

Difino said the event is for adults exclusively. Anyone younger than 21 is not permitted at the festival, nor are pets allowed, he said.

Seago said general admission ticketholders will receive vouchers for 18, three-ounce samples, along with a festival glass. VIP ticketholders get the samples plus a food voucher, a private sampling from noon to 1 p.m. and a commemorative T-shirt.

Designated drivers can buy tickets for $15, a fee that entitles the bearer to soda and water but no beer. VIP designated drivers who pay $25 for entrance also will get a T-shirt and a food voucher.

Tickets can be purchased online and at the gate, while supplies last.