Let’s get ready to rum-ble at the Chicago ninth annual Rum Fest

The ninth annual Chicago Rum Fest is pouring back into town April 26—and this year’s edition promises to be the smoothest one yet. Hosted at the historic Logan Square Auditorium (2539 N. Kedzie Blvd.), the festival brings together rum lovers, trade professionals, and cocktail connoisseurs from across the country for a one-day celebration of all things rum.

With over 200 premium rum expressions and more than 40 award-winning brands on deck, Rum Fest offers more than just a tasting—it's an education. Attendees can explore the rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship behind each pour through curated sessions, speaker programming, and hands-on experiences.

A standout this year is the debut of DaiquiriMANIA, happening from 5–7 p.m. This high-energy session is open to the general public and offers a playful reimagining of the classic daiquiri cocktail, set to a soundtrack of nostalgic retro beats. Cocktail lovers, music fans, and rum aficionados alike can expect a deliciously good time, all while learning about one of the most iconic rum drinks in history.

Also new for 2025 is a deeper dive into rum’s roots, with a special focus on Puerto Rican rum. Federico Hernandez, founder of Rum Fest Puerto Rico, will present "Puerto Rico Rum-Clopedia: A Brief History of Puerto Rico’s Rum Industry." This collector’s edition book offers a rich, visual journey through centuries of Puerto Rico’s rum-making legacy—from the 1500s to today—and will be available for purchase at the event.

Whether you're sipping neat, enjoying a twisted daiquiri, or geeing out over island history, Rum Fest offers something for every level of interest. And with tickets ranging from $20 to $250, you can choose your own adventure—whether that’s just a taste or a full-on rum deep dive.

For tickets, session breakdowns, and more info, visit the official Rum Fest site.