Session 1 11AM – 3PM

Session 2 4PM – 8PM

An epic party for coffee and beer fans —it doesn’t make the world go ‘round, it makes it go up, and down.

At Uppers & Downers we relish the diversity and deliciousness in each category, be it coffee, beer, wine, chocolate, whatever. But as people immersed in it, we often find the most enjoyment when craft is taken out of its original context and intersects another. An unexpected taste of something delicious, a space that blurs the lines between cafe and bar, a combination that exceeds the sum of its parts, or a conversation that shifts your perspective.

What to expect:

*two sessions, 11a-3p and 4-8p at historic Thalia Hall in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood

* dozens of beers and experimental coffee beers made just for Uppers & Downers

* rare, single origin espressos

* coffee cocktails and experiments from the country’s best roasters

* snacks from inventive Chicago chefs

* competition-winning cold brew cocktails

* a balcony lounge with palate cleansers and a great view

* case studies featuring unique sensory experiences

Uppers & Downers started as an experiment bringing together craft beer and coffee culture, exploring the process, technique, and even origin of these ingredients. Since then it’s gone on to include cross-overs from a variety of other craft cultures, including cocktails, chocolate, and the culinary world.

This series includes events around the globe – including London and Berlin. But it’s true home is at the annual festival in Chicago where 1,000 guests over the course of the week, from near and far, will celebrate with us.

As is the tradition, we’re assembled an incredible selection of the country’s best roasters and brewers, and inviting them to serve beautiful coffees, and of course, experimental coffee beers. We’ll also have cold brew cocktails and other surprising, inventive beverages and snacks on the theme.

Attendees will be given a custom glass on entry, theirs to use for sampling everything at the event (no disposables). All samples and snacks are included in the ticket price.

Early ticket sales are happening now.

Hosted with our partners at Thalia Hall.