Two holidays. Endless reasons to cheer! Why wait until Oktoberfest? September gives beer fans not one but two built-in reasons to celebrate: National Beer Lovers Day on September 7 and National Drink Beer Day on September 28. Woodstock’s two standout craft breweries make it easy to raise a glass in style!
Holzlager Brewing Company
📍 150 S. Eastwood Drive, Woodstock
Founded by friends with a shared passion for brewing, Holzlager Brewing Company is all about craftsmanship and community. Their rotating lineup of more than a dozen beers keeps things exciting… from hop-forward IPAs to rich stouts and creative small-batch experiments. The taproom has a relaxed, welcoming vibe, perfect for hanging with friends or diving into a new style you’ve never tried before.
September must-tries:
- Hawaiian Hammer IPA – bright, hoppy, and tropical
- McHenry County Common – a smooth, approachable American lager
- Moostache – a rich, creamy stout perfect for fall
Tip: Order a flight and sample a few styles, then grab a table to swap tasting notes with friends.
Kishwaukee Brewing Co.
📍 1900 Dillard Court, Woodstock
Kishwaukee Brewing Company is an award-winning gem, known for its world-class brewing and its community-friendly beer hall and biergarten. Their beers span styles from classic German lagers to bold West Coast IPAs, all brewed with precision and pride. With food trucks often on-site and plenty of room to spread out, Kishwaukee is a go-to spot for both locals and visitors.
Seasonal highlights:
- Oktoberfest – rich and malty, perfect for fall
- Loro Lima Lager – light, crisp, and refreshing
- English Pub Ale – smooth, balanced, and traditional
Tip: Sip your favorite while catching a late-summer sunset in the biergarten and enjoy live music or a snack from a rotating food truck.
🍺 Make a Day of It: Beer, Outdoors, and Local Flavor in Woodstock
Start at Holzlager Brewing Company
Begin your day by sampling a flight of their inventive beers. The relaxed taproom is perfect for easing into a day of fall fun.
Lunch at Offsides Sports Bar & Grill
After sampling some inventive brews, refuel with a meal at Offsides Sports Bar & Grill, famous for Signature Wings grilled to perfection and tossed in bold sauces. Their fresh burgers and hearty sandwiches are perfect companions to a cold beer.
Outdoor Fun at DuField Pond, Ryders Woods, or Emricson Park
Take advantage of Woodstock’s beautiful September weather with some outdoor fun:
- DuField Pond – peaceful walk or catch-and-release fishing
- Ryders Woods – scenic hiking trails amid crisp fall foliage
- Emricson Park – enjoy a round of disc golf in the great outdoors
Evening at Kishwaukee Brewing Co.
Wrap up your day at Kishwaukee Brewing Company with a sunset in the biergarten. Sip seasonal or signature beers while enjoying live music and grabbing a snack from a food truck.
Don’t forget to share your adventures with us! Tag your photos with @RealWoodstock or use #RealWoodstock so we can see how you’re celebrating beer, food, and fall fun in town. Cheers! 🍻