New Lenox's Giant Santa Inspires Brewery's 'Most Christmassy Beer'

NEW LENOX, IL — The really, really big, glowing Santa that looms over New Lenox's Village Commons each year inspired something possibly even larger than its own presence this year—a beer in tribute to The Big Guy.

Arrowhead Ales Brewing Company owner Mike Bacon, with brewer Travis Fasano and special guests from the Village of New Lenox, have brewed up Big Lit Kringle, set to make its debut at the opening of Christmas on the Commons Saturday, Dec. 2.

It's been a concept a few years in the making, Bacon told Patch.

"We've been involved with Christmas in the Commons in one way or another for a few years now," Bacon said. Last year, he said, he spoke with Village staff with hopes of expanding on previous years.

"I asked if we could be a little more involved with some beverage options and get a little more presence and make it an experience," Bacon said.

A little bit of brainstorming led to the idea of the Arrowhead Ales Christmas Lounge, to be featured at the weekly event.

Christmas in the Commons takes place on Saturdays and Sundays in December from 4 to 8 p.m., until Christmas.

• Dec. 2–3
• Dec. 9–10
• Dec. 16–17
• Dec. 23

"The Arrowhead Ales Christmas Lounge will be set up in a heated tent in front of the Village Hall throughout the festival," said Special Events Coordinator Beth Alderson, "where guests will be welcome to stop in a get a glass of the specially brewed Big Lit Kringle."

Alderson, along with Administrative Assistant to the Mayor & Village Administrator Megan Applegate and Assistant Street Supervisor Ken Kirkland stopped by the brewery Wednesday to get to work.

"It was great to have the representatives from the Village come learn about some brewing and get their hands a little dirty helping make the beer," Bacon said.

The beer is a milk stout, Bacon said, with flavors of toasted marshmallows, chocolate and peppermint.

"It's the most Christmassy beer we've ever made, and we hope people will stop by our lounge and try it."

Alderson said the collaboration is exciting and reflects the spirit of the town and the event.

"The events we host in the Village Commons are all about community," Alderson said, "and being able to include our local businesses with these types of creative and fun partnerships really embodies that.

"We’re grateful to Arrowhead Ales for their efforts on this, and we’re looking forward to debuting the new beer at Christmas in the Commons on December 2!"

The beer will also be on tap that day at Arrowhead Ales, 2101 Calistoga Dr., Bacon said. Arrowhead's Christmas Lounge at the Commons will also offer different beers and drinks for adults as well offering "some sweet treats and fun little surprises," Bacon added.

Christmas in the Commons lineups also feature visits from Santa, horse-drawn wagon rides, synthetic skating rinks, visits from reindeer, and more. These events and all the accompanying activities are free, and no admission tickets are required.

There are special events planned for specific dates! Check them out:

• Special Events and Appearances Schedule
• Holiday Market
• Holiday Lights and Santa's Mailbox