• Logan Square Auditorium
  • 2539 N Kedzie Blvd, Chicago, IL 60647, United States

1:30 - 7:00 pm | VIP Rum Experts Session

Brief:  Registration and Session for VIP Rum Experts

Chicago Rum Fest 2026

2:00 - 2:45 pm | Drink Less, Drink Better

Brief: In a fast-paced world of heightened consumption, this seminar invites you to slow down and imbibe with intention. Together, we will explore a selection of curated, RARE library releases from the La Maison & Velier portfolio. In an era defined by overstimulation and excess, we invite you to step into a space of quiet focus and genuine connection. Drink Less, Drink Better is more than a tasting; it is a movement toward intentional imbibement, where we shift our focus from the volume of consumption to the depth of the experience. Led by Kate Perry, this seminar explores the philosophy of drinking with intention. You are invited to rediscover the art of the slow pour, prioritizing community, conversation and the craftsmanship behind every drop.

2:00 - 3:30 pm | Industry Trade Session

Brief:  Registration and Session for Industry Trade Professionals

Chicago Rum Fest 2026

3:00 - 3:45 pm | From Sea Depth to Sweet Finish: Maturation & Pairing in Cayman Islands Rum

Brief: This seminar explores how three distinct maturation environments and barrel types shape the structure and flavor profile of premium rum, and how carefully selected cheeses enhance and reveal those characteristics. The session combines: • Advanced maturation education • Comparative tasting • Intentional cheese pairing.

3:00 - 7:00 pm | VIP Rum Enthusiastic Session

Brief:  Registration and Session for VIP Rum Enthusiastics

Chicago Rum Fest 2026

4:00 - 4:45 pm | Costa Rica Single Estate Rum: Combining pure juice, molasses & sugar cane honey

Brief: Pierre Bardinet shares the story behind the creation of the first Costa Rican single-estate rum. From an uncompromising focus on raw material to the art of blending, he explores how three major rum traditions: pure cane juice, molasses, and sugar cane honey can be combined to build complexity, balance, and identity. A deep dive into terroir, technique, and the power of assemblage.

4:00 - 7:00 pm | Intro to Rum - General Admission Session

Brief: Registration and Session for Intro to Rum – General Admission

Chicago Rum Fest 2026

5:00 - 5:45 pm | Planteray Rum & Stade's Rums Distillery Master Class

Brief: TBA.

5:00 - 7:00 pm | General Admission Session

Brief: Registration and Session for General Admission Grand Tasting

Chicago Rum Fest 2026