Winter’s Brightest Pour: Inside Cider Summit Chicago at Navy Pier

Winter in Chicago has a way of daring you to stay inside. Cider Summit Chicago responds with a raised glass and a better idea.

Returning for its 12th year, Cider Summit Chicago, the nation’s largest cider tasting event, takes over Lakeview Terrace at Navy Pier on Saturday, January 31, 2026, transforming one of the city’s most iconic winter backdrops into a buzzing orchard of flavor. With more than 125 ciders, meads, cider cocktails, and fruit spirits, the festival is less about enduring winter and more about savoring it.

From crisp, bone-dry Northwest styles to fruit-forward pours and honeyed meads, Cider Summit Chicago showcases the full spectrum of what modern cidermaking can be. Regional favorites share space with international standouts, while cidermakers themselves are on hand, ready to talk apples, fermentation, and why cider deserves a permanent seat at the grown-up beverage table.

New this year is a Pre-Opening Cider & Cupcake Tasting, a tightly curated experience pairing four custom cupcakes from Molly’s Cupcakes with selections from Northman Cider, Eris Cider, and a few surprises. Limited to just 72 participants, it’s a sweet, boozy overture before the main event begins. (A separate General Admission or VIP ticket is required.)

For those looking to elevate the experience, VIP admission unlocks early entry, exclusive tastings, and extra time to explore before the crowds arrive. General Admission follows, turning the terrace into a lively, glass-clinking celebration that feels equal parts tasting room, food festival, and winter block party.

This year’s festival also gives back. A portion of ticket sales benefits The Evolved Network, a nonprofit providing experiential programming for children through culinary arts and gardening, adding purpose to every pour.

Set against sweeping lake views and the unmistakable energy of Navy Pier, Cider Summit Chicago proves once again that winter in the city isn’t something to escape. It’s something to drink in.

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