Celebrating 25 Years of Craft Beer and Community in West Dundee

Emmett's Brewing Company, a beloved fixture in West Dundee, Illinois, is gearing up to celebrate its 25th anniversary with a grand celebration that promises to be a true community event. From the return of the annual Big Wheel Race to the introduction of a new urban taqueria, this milestone marks a significant chapter in the brewery's history and its deep-rooted connection to the town it calls home.

Embracing the Spirit of Celebration and Community

Reviving the Big Wheel Race

Emmett's Brewing Company's annual Big Wheel Race has become a beloved tradition, and this year, the event is moving to the summer as part of the brewery's 25th anniversary celebration. Owner Andy Burns reminisces about the race's origins, recalling how it started in 2007 when he and a group of friends decided to borrow their kids' toy Big Wheels and race them down the hilly Washington Street on St. Patrick's Day. The event quickly gained popularity, becoming an annual fixture until the COVID-19 pandemic forced its temporary suspension. Now, with the decision to move the race to July, Burns and his team are excited to reintroduce the event, capitalizing on the warmer weather to create an even more enjoyable experience for spectators.

Expanding the Celebration

The 25th anniversary celebration at Emmett's Brewing Company will be more than just the Big Wheel Race. The brewery has planned a full-fledged brewfest, complete with live music, a car show, and a food and beer tent featuring brews from Emmett's and other local craft breweries. This expanded celebration is a testament to the brewery's commitment to the community and its desire to create an unforgettable experience for its loyal patrons.

Embracing the Entrepreneurial Spirit

Andy Burns' entrepreneurial journey extends beyond the walls of Emmett's Brewing Company. In addition to the brewery's three locations, Burns has also invested in a building near the West Dundee Village Hall, leasing out the first-floor space to the Elder + Oat coffee shop and bakery, while renting out boutique apartments on the second floor. This diversification of his business ventures reflects Burns' vision for shaping the downtown ecosystem and further cementing Emmett's Brewing Company's place within the community.

Introducing El Pato Loco

As if the 25th anniversary celebrations weren't enough, Emmett's Brewing Company is also set to unveil a new venture – El Pato Loco, an urban taqueria that will open in mid-August in a building owned by Burns, just two doors east of the brewery. The name "El Pato Loco," which translates to "the crazy duck" in Spanish, is a nod to the brewery's proximity to the Fox River, further expanding the Emmett's brand and its presence in the West Dundee community.

Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future

Emmett's Brewing Company's 25-year journey has been marked by a deep commitment to the community and a passion for craft beer. As the brewery celebrates this milestone, it is not only honoring its past but also looking towards the future. The special 25th anniversary beer, set to be released in September, and the upcoming menu updates that will highlight customer favorites from the last 25 years, are just a few ways Emmett's is paying tribute to its rich history while continuing to evolve and meet the changing needs of its loyal patrons.