may

Enjoy our free, live shows on the front lawn of DESTIHL Brewery & Beer Hall! Bring your lawn chairs and blankets—they’re welcome and encouraged. 

FEATURING:  UNION AVENUE

Founded in August of 2021, Union Avenue had a grand plan to bring authentic rockabilly music to the public. Formed by seasoned musicians, from inception to first show was a mere month! The recipe of astounding vocals supported by vintage electric guitar, upright “slap style” bass, and rock-inspired drums was an instant hit with audiences.

​

The energy and vibrance of the early 1950’s rockabilly movement is showcased along with rowdy Jump Blues and some early country music. Rare, unissued songs from the “Sun Records era” are foundational, as well as new takes on some more recent cuts from not only the United States, but also from impressive rockabilly and country artists from Europe.

​

Christopher Myers fronts the band in 1950’s era clothing which brings an authentic visual element to the stage, while his incredible vocals sonically capture the audience. Supported by hypnotizing slap bass rhythms by Steve Knecht and driven by the powerful drumbeats of Francis Lucente, song after song draws the audience in wondering what will happen next!

Union Avenue’s grand plan to bring authentic rockabilly music to the public has been a great success! Come and see it for yourself… and be prepared to have a great rockin’ time!

Music presented by Black Dirt Management. Our live music lineup delivers unforgettable performances all year long—because at DESTIHL, every season brings its own soundtrack.

Please note that outside food, beverages, and coolers are not allowed. 

Enjoy our free, live shows on the front lawn of DESTIHL Brewery & Beer Hall! Bring your lawn chairs and blankets—they’re welcome and encouraged. 

FEATURING:  FRESH HOPS

Fresh Hops is a touring 4 piece Multi-Genre bending, Rock band from Northwest Indiana. The band formed in March 2008 as a musical improvisational outlet among friends. Now Fresh Hops has evolved into a captivating, high energy live act.

The group has seen numerous line ups and instrument inclusion which has led to an eclectic mix of sounds and atmospheres. As writers and performers Fresh Hops constantly blurs the lines between genres and style, often during the course of a single song.

That "anything goes" attitude has translated to a stage show that remains fresh and fun from show to show. The realization that jazz, classic soul, bluegrass, classical, metal and progressive jam rock can all shake hands and play nice has guided them to create remarkable tunes from an ever-expanding palette.

Music presented by Black Dirt Management. Our live music lineup delivers unforgettable performances all year long—because at DESTIHL, every season brings its own soundtrack.

Please note that outside food, beverages, and coolers are not allowed. 

Nomad Theatre will present their site-specific series of touring plays titled "All A-Bloom" featuring four, ten-minute plays set outdoors in a garden. Plays are recommended for ages 12 and up.

These community performances are open to the public and are pay what you can. Tickets are not required to attend. Donations to Nomad Theatre's mission can be made on site.

This series of plays features a troupe of actors performing the following series of plays:

Remembrance By Allie Costa
SYNOPSIS: After the death of his father, a grief-stricken Hamlet is plagued by psychotic delusions making him think several others have died and that he is at fault. He finds comfort in an unexpected source: the dearly not departed Ophelia.

Fertilizer By Bruce Boeck
SYNOPSIS: Liz and Robert have a beautiful garden, and the local HOA wants to show it off. The only problem is the fertilizer they use...

Pas de Deux By Dana Schwartz
SYNOPSIS: Every morning for the past 30 years, a Dancer turned to stone, desperate for the curse to be lifted, is allowed a few moments of movement. Her bestie, the Wind, takes this final day of forced stillness to try and sway her thinking from how she’ll start over exactly where she was frozen, to what if nearly half a century is going to hit her face and body like a ton of stone.

The Bench
By Romney Humphrey
SYNOPSIS: In a quiet park, a simple bench becomes the center of a heartfelt conflict between two strangers—Ted, a man recovering from personal struggles, and Carol, a woman honoring the memory of her late father.

Troupe of actors featuring: Matteo Moudy, Jaylee Hein, Wendi Lee Fleming, Jason Cook, Ariele Jones, Patti Geske, Bruce Boeck, Adriana Escalera, and Hayley Osborn.

For information on how to book a private performance at your home outdoors, visit: www.nomadtheatre.org

This program is supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council Agency, an agency of the State of Illinois, the Mclean County Arts Center, and the National Endowment for the Arts. 

Enjoy our free, live shows on the front lawn of DESTIHL Brewery & Beer Hall! Bring your lawn chairs and blankets—they’re welcome and encouraged. 

Join us for a nostalgic journey down America’s most iconic highway! Hop on the Road: A Celebration of Route 66 brings together classic cars, live music, delicious food, and Route 66-inspired vendors for an unforgettable Memorial Day celebration. We invite you to bring your antique car, muscle machines, and everything in between! You can even enter them into the car show in advance with the link below or day of from 10a-12p.

Enjoy a fun-filled day with family-friendly activities, amazing eats from DESTIHL, and a chance to step back in time to honor the legendary Mother Road. Don’t miss out—mark your calendar and be part of this one-of-a-kind event!

Event Highlights:
-Car Show
* Featuring vehicles spanning generations, from Antique (Pre-1950) and Classic (1951–1999) to Contemporary (2000–2024). Cars will be judged in each category, showcasing the evolution of automotive style and performance. Pre-register your car here: https://events.humanitix.com/hop-on-the-road-a...

-Live Music Nathan Taylor Band 1:00-4:00 PM
-DESTIHL Food & Drink Features
-Gary Miller Classic Auto
-Club Car Wash
-Kari's Occasion's Face Painting
-Sassy & Classy Designs Trucker Hat Bar
-Edge of Normal
-Kids art station & Cotton Candy

Car Show Schedule:
* 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Registration (Cost: $15 per car or pre-register online)
* 12:00 PM: Show & Judging Begins
* 2:00 PM: Awards Announced

Enjoy our free, live shows on the front lawn of DESTIHL Brewery & Beer Hall! Bring your lawn chairs and blankets—they’re welcome and encouraged. 

FEATURING:  LUNAR TICKS

Lunar Ticks are an eclectic Improvisational/Alternative Rock band from Chicago, IL. 

The band is influenced by the songwriting and studio experimentation of 90's and 2000's innovative Alternative/Indie rock bands like Wilco, My Morning Jacket, The Flaming Lips, Ween, Yo La Tengo, Pavement, and Dr. Dog, and fuses it with genre-bending, progressive musicality, and exploratory improvisations in the vein of The Grateful Dead, Phish, and Umphrey's McGee. 

Each setlist is formed from their diverse and expansive song list of originals and covers; debuting new material at almost every show. Extended improvisational passages can turn on a dime or meditate and unfurl in unexpected ways. Lunar Ticks aim to create a unique and memorable experience every time they pick up their instruments. 

Faraz Chaudry - Guitar/Vocals

Josh Levine - Keyboards/Vocals

Ryan Mannix - Vocals/Guitar

Joel Masinter - Bass

Carter Stirtz - Drumset

Music presented by Black Dirt Management. Our live music lineup delivers unforgettable performances all year long—because at DESTIHL, every season brings its own soundtrack.

Please note that outside food, beverages, and coolers are not allowed. 

Enjoy our free, live shows on the front lawn of DESTIHL Brewery & Beer Hall! Bring your lawn chairs and blankets—they’re welcome and encouraged. 

FEATURING:  TAYLOR STEELE & THE LOVE PREACHERS

Taylor Steele & the Love Preachers are a four piece Americana band with a powerful woman singer/songwriter as its driving force.  Based out of Effingham, IL, they perform a powerful blend of roots rock with soul, country, blues, and funk influences. The group performs original music written by Taylor Steele, 27 year old rhythm guitarist and vocalist, along with their interpretations of eclectic music by their favorite artists.

The Love Preachers have a way of sneaking up on you. The music is soulful, but sublime. The songs are smart and original, with roots that take you through rock and roll back to the blues of the old south. The vocal quality of Taylor Steele is reminiscent of great legendary singers like Bonnie Raitt and Mavis Staples but also modern stars like Susan Tedeschi and Gillian Welch.  Stemming from these influences, she has immense control of her voice as she belts out notes and improvises, all while finding a beautiful balance between vibrato, tone, and projection.  Just when you think you have it figured out, the Love Preachers start preaching, Taylor’s voice starts soaring, and they take you for a ride you won't soon forget.

​

Taylor Steele started singing when she was a young girl, joining her family on stage singing old time country music, 60's/70's rock and bar band blues. She has covered a lot of ground since then and has spent a lot of time developing her self taught finger picking style.  Growing up, she would get lost in discovering and interpreting folk/rock, old country, and soul/blues artists including Bob Dylan, Van Morrison, The Band, Hank Williams Sr., Son House, Jimmie Rodgers, Neil Young, and Bonnie Raitt. This has informed Taylor’s songwriting and provided her with a wide range of excellent influences from which to draw.

​

The band consists of lead vocals, acoustic resonator, and electric telecaster by Taylor Steele,  lead guitar by Chris Lee, bass and vocals by Garrett Burris, and drums and vocals by Kyle Heynen.

Music presented by Black Dirt Management. Our live music lineup delivers unforgettable performances all year long—because at DESTIHL, every season brings its own soundtrack.

Please note that outside food, beverages, and coolers are not allowed. 

Enjoy our free, live shows on the front lawn of DESTIHL Brewery & Beer Hall! Bring your lawn chairs and blankets—they’re welcome and encouraged. 

FEATURING:  CHICAGO FARMER

The son of a small town farming community, Cody Diekhoff logged plenty of highway and stage time under the name Chicago Farmer before settling in the city in 2003. Profoundly inspired by fellow midwesterner John Prine, he’s a working-class folk musician to his core. His small town roots, tilled with city streets mentality, are turning heads North and South of I-80.

“I love the energy, music, and creativity of Chicago, but at the same time, the roots and hard work of my small town,” he shares. Growing up in Delavan, Illinois, with a population less than 2,000, Diekhoff’s grandparents were farmers, and their values have always provided the baseline of his songs. 

He writes music for “the kind of people that come to my shows. Whether in Chicago or Delavan, everyone has a story, and everyone puts in a long day and works hard the same way,” he says. “My generation may have been labeled as slackers, but I don’t know anyone who doesn’t work hard - many people I know put in 50-60 hours a week and 12 hour days. That’s what keeps me playing. I don’t like anyone to be left out; my music is for everyone in big and very small towns.”

“I love Chicago Farmer’s singing and playing and songs, but it’s the intention behind the whole of his work that moves me to consider him the genuine heir to Arlo Guthrie or Ramblin’ Jack Elliott. He knows the shell game that goes on under folk music… which is sacred to me. Chicago Farmer is my brother; if you like me, you’ll love him.” - Todd Snider

“After a few listens to the record it becomes apparent that Chicago Farmer has a refreshingly firm grip on where he comes from. The songs are covered to the elbows in dirt from the fields and smell of the sweaty factory floors. If the Midwest is looking for a voice, the search is over.” - No Depression

Music presented by Black Dirt Management. Our live music lineup delivers unforgettable performances all year long—because at DESTIHL, every season brings its own soundtrack.

Please note that outside food, beverages, and coolers are not allowed. 

Enjoy our free, live shows on the front lawn of DESTIHL Brewery & Beer Hall! Bring your lawn chairs and blankets—they’re welcome and encouraged. 

FEATURING:  GARRET BURRIS & TIME TO KILL

Garrett Burris w/ Time To Kill: is a collaboration with longtime friends and Effingham area all-stars Austin Stark (Bathtub Hooch Band, Local Honey), Taylor Steele (Taylor Steele & the Love Preachers), Kendell Scott (Matt Poss Band, Craig Gerdes Band, Bill Poss), and Nash Swisher (Sidelined, Flight 50). Part cosmic country, part rock and roll. It's a family band, with no front man, playing classic American rock and country tunes from the heart.

Music presented by Black Dirt Management. Our live music lineup delivers unforgettable performances all year long—because at DESTIHL, every season brings its own soundtrack.

Please note that outside food, beverages, and coolers are not allowed. 

Enjoy our free, live shows on the front lawn of DESTIHL Brewery & Beer Hall! Bring your lawn chairs and blankets—they’re welcome and encouraged. 

FEATURING:  THANKFUL DEAD

Thankful Dead is a group of top Chicago-area musicians who celebrate the music of the Grateful Dead. While staying true to this timeless catalog, the band brings fresh energy and a unique approach that will thrill listeners new and old. “Let there be songs to fill the air!”

Music presented by Black Dirt Management. Our live music lineup delivers unforgettable performances all year long—because at DESTIHL, every season brings its own soundtrack.

Please note that outside food, beverages, and coolers are not allowed. 

Enjoy our free, live shows on the front lawn of DESTIHL Brewery & Beer Hall! Bring your lawn chairs and blankets—they’re welcome and encouraged. 

FEATURING:  CHICAGO FARMER

The son of a small town farming community, Cody Diekhoff logged plenty of highway and stage time under the name Chicago Farmer before settling in the city in 2003. Profoundly inspired by fellow midwesterner John Prine, he’s a working-class folk musician to his core. His small town roots, tilled with city streets mentality, are turning heads North and South of I-80.

“I love the energy, music, and creativity of Chicago, but at the same time, the roots and hard work of my small town,” he shares. Growing up in Delavan, Illinois, with a population less than 2,000, Diekhoff’s grandparents were farmers, and their values have always provided the baseline of his songs. 

He writes music for “the kind of people that come to my shows. Whether in Chicago or Delavan, everyone has a story, and everyone puts in a long day and works hard the same way,” he says. “My generation may have been labeled as slackers, but I don’t know anyone who doesn’t work hard - many people I know put in 50-60 hours a week and 12 hour days. That’s what keeps me playing. I don’t like anyone to be left out; my music is for everyone in big and very small towns.”

“I love Chicago Farmer’s singing and playing and songs, but it’s the intention behind the whole of his work that moves me to consider him the genuine heir to Arlo Guthrie or Ramblin’ Jack Elliott. He knows the shell game that goes on under folk music… which is sacred to me. Chicago Farmer is my brother; if you like me, you’ll love him.” - Todd Snider

“After a few listens to the record it becomes apparent that Chicago Farmer has a refreshingly firm grip on where he comes from. The songs are covered to the elbows in dirt from the fields and smell of the sweaty factory floors. If the Midwest is looking for a voice, the search is over.” - No Depression

Music presented by Black Dirt Management. Our live music lineup delivers unforgettable performances all year long—because at DESTIHL, every season brings its own soundtrack.

Please note that outside food, beverages, and coolers are not allowed. 

Enjoy our free, live shows on the front lawn of DESTIHL Brewery & Beer Hall! Bring your lawn chairs and blankets—they’re welcome and encouraged. 

FEATURING:  AARON KELLY BAND

Aaron Kelly was never on American Idol, but did grow up on the edge of the Chicago megalopolis, falling under the influence of John Prine, Townes Van Zandt, and empathy, his songs are carefully crafted and made to last. He’s been featured by American Songwriter Magazine, and released Barefoot and Bottomed Out, his first solo album, in 2016, after zig-zagging across the country for years with Overman. Making up for lost time, Aaron Kelly Band released their debut LP, Songs Still Sing, in 2022, and an adjacent 6-song EP, Letting the Animals Out, on 1/3/24.

Music presented by Black Dirt Management. Our live music lineup delivers unforgettable performances all year long—because at DESTIHL, every season brings its own soundtrack.

Please note that outside food, beverages, and coolers are not allowed. 

Enjoy our free, live shows on the front lawn of DESTIHL Brewery & Beer Hall! Bring your lawn chairs and blankets—they’re welcome and encouraged. 

FEATURING:  EAST BLUFF ALL STARS

Featuring Mike Stumpo on vocals & bass guitar, Russell Miller on vocals & lead guitar,
and Aaron Miller on drums & vocals.

Music presented by Black Dirt Management. Our live music lineup delivers unforgettable performances all year long—because at DESTIHL, every season brings its own soundtrack.

Please note that outside food, beverages, and coolers are not allowed. 

Enjoy our free, live shows on the front lawn of DESTIHL Brewery & Beer Hall! Bring your lawn chairs and blankets—they’re welcome and encouraged. 

FEATURING:  CHICAGO FARMER

The son of a small town farming community, Cody Diekhoff logged plenty of highway and stage time under the name Chicago Farmer before settling in the city in 2003. Profoundly inspired by fellow midwesterner John Prine, he’s a working-class folk musician to his core. His small town roots, tilled with city streets mentality, are turning heads North and South of I-80.

“I love the energy, music, and creativity of Chicago, but at the same time, the roots and hard work of my small town,” he shares. Growing up in Delavan, Illinois, with a population less than 2,000, Diekhoff’s grandparents were farmers, and their values have always provided the baseline of his songs. 

He writes music for “the kind of people that come to my shows. Whether in Chicago or Delavan, everyone has a story, and everyone puts in a long day and works hard the same way,” he says. “My generation may have been labeled as slackers, but I don’t know anyone who doesn’t work hard - many people I know put in 50-60 hours a week and 12 hour days. That’s what keeps me playing. I don’t like anyone to be left out; my music is for everyone in big and very small towns.”

“I love Chicago Farmer’s singing and playing and songs, but it’s the intention behind the whole of his work that moves me to consider him the genuine heir to Arlo Guthrie or Ramblin’ Jack Elliott. He knows the shell game that goes on under folk music… which is sacred to me. Chicago Farmer is my brother; if you like me, you’ll love him.” - Todd Snider

“After a few listens to the record it becomes apparent that Chicago Farmer has a refreshingly firm grip on where he comes from. The songs are covered to the elbows in dirt from the fields and smell of the sweaty factory floors. If the Midwest is looking for a voice, the search is over.” - No Depression

Music presented by Black Dirt Management. Our live music lineup delivers unforgettable performances all year long—because at DESTIHL, every season brings its own soundtrack.

Please note that outside food, beverages, and coolers are not allowed. 

Enjoy our free, live shows on the front lawn of DESTIHL Brewery & Beer Hall! Bring your lawn chairs and blankets—they’re welcome and encouraged. 

FEATURING:  FOX CROSSING STRING BAND

Fox Crossing Stringband is a dynamic women-led bluegrass group that has been making waves in Chicago’s music scene for the past eight years. Founded by Cassie Lynn Wright (banjo/dobro) and Despina Pafralides (guitar), their sound is built on powerful original songwriting and captivating vocal harmonies.

Joined by Roman Niziolek (upright bass), Micah Vogel (fiddle), and Caleb Peters (mandolin), Fox Crossing pushes bluegrass boundaries. They seamlessly blend traditional roots with pop, blues, and rock, creating a unique and exhilarating live music experience.

Music presented by Black Dirt Management. Our live music lineup delivers unforgettable performances all year long—because at DESTIHL, every season brings its own soundtrack.

Please note that outside food, beverages, and coolers are not allowed. 

Enjoy our free, live shows on the front lawn of DESTIHL Brewery & Beer Hall! Bring your lawn chairs and blankets—they’re welcome and encouraged. 

FEATURING:  BLACK DIRT REVIVAL

Black Dirt Revival is made up of Edward David Anderson, Stevie Manuel and John Ganser. The eclectic trio primarily focuses on the solo works of EDA and has been known to delve into everything from country to funk to rock & roll.

Music presented by Black Dirt Management. Our live music lineup delivers unforgettable performances all year long—because at DESTIHL, every season brings its own soundtrack.

Please note that outside food, beverages, and coolers are not allowed. 

We're thrilled to partner with Ruby's Rescue for an outdoor market where they will have adoptable dogs to meet! Feel free to bring your furry friends (on a leash) and shop for goods from various local businesses, artisans & craftspeople. Support local & find something unique for yourself or to give as a gift! Enjoy live music while you shop featuring Kenny P on the outdoor stage 12-2:00pm.

CONFIRMED VENDORS
Me & Mable's Closet
Korey the Kanine Dog Training
Bee Glass Art
Dainty Duo Creations
Kara Ivey Art
The Gold Bar
Apricot Lane
Lacey's Loaves
Sweet Daisy Treats
Happy Feet Canine
Jacqlour
Big Eagle Supply Company
Wooden Element

Kenny P is a soulful singer/songwriter and troubadour with a passion for live music. A strong vocalist and skilled acoustic guitarist, his sound draws inspiration from legends like Frank Sinatra, Elton John, and the Allman Brothers.

If you're interested in applying to be a vendor at our markets, please send info and social media links to Ally Frietsch at afrietsch@destihl.com

Enjoy our free, live shows on the front lawn of DESTIHL Brewery & Beer Hall! Bring your lawn chairs and blankets—they’re welcome and encouraged. 

FEATURING:  CHICAGO FARMER

The son of a small town farming community, Cody Diekhoff logged plenty of highway and stage time under the name Chicago Farmer before settling in the city in 2003. Profoundly inspired by fellow midwesterner John Prine, he’s a working-class folk musician to his core. His small town roots, tilled with city streets mentality, are turning heads North and South of I-80.

“I love the energy, music, and creativity of Chicago, but at the same time, the roots and hard work of my small town,” he shares. Growing up in Delavan, Illinois, with a population less than 2,000, Diekhoff’s grandparents were farmers, and their values have always provided the baseline of his songs. 

He writes music for “the kind of people that come to my shows. Whether in Chicago or Delavan, everyone has a story, and everyone puts in a long day and works hard the same way,” he says. “My generation may have been labeled as slackers, but I don’t know anyone who doesn’t work hard - many people I know put in 50-60 hours a week and 12 hour days. That’s what keeps me playing. I don’t like anyone to be left out; my music is for everyone in big and very small towns.”

“I love Chicago Farmer’s singing and playing and songs, but it’s the intention behind the whole of his work that moves me to consider him the genuine heir to Arlo Guthrie or Ramblin’ Jack Elliott. He knows the shell game that goes on under folk music… which is sacred to me. Chicago Farmer is my brother; if you like me, you’ll love him.” - Todd Snider

“After a few listens to the record it becomes apparent that Chicago Farmer has a refreshingly firm grip on where he comes from. The songs are covered to the elbows in dirt from the fields and smell of the sweaty factory floors. If the Midwest is looking for a voice, the search is over.” - No Depression

Music presented by Black Dirt Management. Our live music lineup delivers unforgettable performances all year long—because at DESTIHL, every season brings its own soundtrack.

Please note that outside food, beverages, and coolers are not allowed. 

Enjoy our free, live shows on the front lawn of DESTIHL Brewery & Beer Hall! Bring your lawn chairs and blankets—they’re welcome and encouraged. 

FEATURING:  ALABASTER

Described as "Snarky Puppy meets Led Zeppelin", Alabaster is Chicagoland's hidden gem of bands. Since 2015, Alabaster has been steadily performing at festivals and venues across America, growing and developing a unique sound that attracts music fans from all around. Alabaster takes the principles of jazz improvisation and melts them with grooves from around the world with a rock and roll attitude.The band points a focus on composing interesting, thought-provoking music and danceable grooves, while exploring uncharted territory through improvisation every night, assuring no performance is ever the same. The band knows no boundaries. Alabaster has shared the stage with members of the Grateful Dead, Parliament Funkadelic, Billy Strings and more.

In 2019, the band released the first single on their self-titled debute EP and was featured as an honorable mention in NPR’s Tiny Desk competition. Alabaster released their single "Excellent Idea" in December, 2022. A new series of singles are slated to
come out for the rest of 2023. Alabaster is available for performances and would enhance any show in the rock/fusion/jamband/jazz genres.

Music presented by Black Dirt Management. Our live music lineup delivers unforgettable performances all year long—because at DESTIHL, every season brings its own soundtrack.

Please note that outside food, beverages, and coolers are not allowed. 

Enjoy our free, live shows on the front lawn of DESTIHL Brewery & Beer Hall! Bring your lawn chairs and blankets—they’re welcome and encouraged. 

FEATURING:  GREG KLYMA TRIO

Greg Klyma is a prolific songwriter and seasoned road performer known for his energetic live performances and clever storytelling lyrics that deliver entertaining rides through hilarity, reflection, passion and loss.

Music presented by Black Dirt Management. Our live music lineup delivers unforgettable performances all year long—because at DESTIHL, every season brings its own soundtrack.

Please note that outside food, beverages, and coolers are not allowed.