Chicago Summers Deserve More Than Just Cold Beer
There’s no place like Chicago in the summer. With music festivals, lakefront lounging, and neighborhood street fests nearly every weekend, the city practically demands a celebration. Whether you’re hosting friends before Lollapalooza, throwing a rooftop get-together after the Air & Water Show, or planning a night out starting with cocktails at home, your drink game needs to match the city’s energy.
That’s where Bartender Chicago comes in. Their expert bartenders bring professional service, custom cocktails, and summer-ready setups to rooftops, courtyards, patios, and lofts across the city. From a South Loop pre-game to an after-party in Lincoln Park, they’ve got your summer hosting handled.
Pre-Game Like a Local
Wrigleyville House Parties
Few neighborhoods party quite like Wrigleyville—especially on Cubs game days. Instead of waiting in line at packed bars, smart hosts are creating at-home pre-games with signature cocktails and backyard vibes. Try serving “Cubbie Blue Margaritas,” sparkling spiked lemonades, or a classic beer-and-a-shot combo, Chicago style.
Bring in a bartender to handle the details, from mixing and garnishing to keeping everything flowing so you can enjoy the party, not manage it.
Lollapalooza Kickoffs
Lolla weekend is a summer staple—and hosting friends before the festival is just as fun as the main event. A Lolla weekend loft pre-game sets the tone for the day. Think boozy popsicles, watermelon slushies, and tequila spritzers. A bartender on-site keeps the vibe high and the mess low, with everything prepped and poured to perfection.
Neighborhood Street Fests
From Wicker Park Fest to Taste of Randolph, Chicago’s street fests are some of the best in the country. Hosting a pre-fest patio hangout? Serve up sangria, hard kombucha, and canned cocktails. Or go custom with a bartender-curated spritz bar. It’s a great way to fuel up before hitting the streets—or wind down after dancing all day.
Keep the Party Going After the Main Event
Post–Air & Water Show Rooftops
Once the jets stop soaring over Lake Michigan, the after-parties begin. Host a sunset gathering on your rooftop with a view of the skyline and a menu that includes cucumber gin coolers, lavender lemonades, and “Lakefront Old Fashioneds.”
If you’re lucky enough to have views in the Gold Coast, a private bartender turns your home into the city’s most exclusive lounge.
North Avenue Beach Cooldowns
After a day at North Avenue Beach, nothing beats cooling off with chilled cocktails and a relaxed backyard party. Invite friends over to your Lincoln Park apartment for mojitos, frozen daiquiris, or a frosé station. Your bartender handles the blending and pouring so you can stay out of the sun—and in the conversation.
Late-Night Cocktail Hours
Some of the best Chicago nights begin after the crowds clear. Host a refined after-party with Negronis, espresso martinis, and amaro spritzes. Add some moody lighting and soft music for a full late-night lounge vibe—perfect for River North lofts or Bucktown patios. Bartender Chicago brings the polish to make it feel like a true VIP experience.
Summer Drink Trends in Chicago
Chicagoans know good drinks, and this summer’s trends reflect both style and substance. Here’s what’s making waves at parties all over the city:
- Herbal & Floral Infusions – Drinks with lavender, basil, rosemary, and hibiscus add fragrance and finesse.
- Frozen Cocktails – Frosé, blended margaritas, and boozy slushies are a must for backyard and beach parties.
- Low-ABV Options – Vermouth-based spritzers and hard seltzers keep things sessionable.
- Non-alcoholic craft options – From zero-proof gin & tonics to cucumber-mint coolers, inclusive mocktails are as popular as ever—and no one’s missing out.
Host Without the Hassle
The secret to a successful summer party isn’t just what’s in the glass—it’s who’s pouring it. When you bring in Bartender Chicago, you’re not just getting drinks; you’re getting peace of mind. Their team handles setup, service, and cleanup so you can enjoy your event instead of managing it.
From the Cubs home opener to a last-minute Lolla pre-game to a chill rooftop hang with friends, your summer moments deserve the kind of care that only a professional bartender can deliver.
So grab your sunglasses, turn up the playlist, and let the pros handle the cocktails.
