Twin-Cities breweries dedicating special brews for Miller Park Zoo

A portion of the beer sales will be donated to the nonprofit Miller Park Zoological Society. (Photo courtesy: WJBC/File)

By Heart of Illinois ABC

BLOOMINGTON – What would normally be the ‘Brews at the Zoo’ has changed to ‘Brews for the Zoo’ — four local breweries raising money by creating special brews based on animals at the Miller Park Zoo.

Destihl, Keg Grove, Lil Beaver and White Oak Brewery are partnering and creating a series of limited edition beers, featuring a Miller Park Zoo animal, and highlighting the zoo’s conservation work, according to a release.

The animals chosen, labels and batch brew will be unveiled weekly, starting July 31 with a launch event at Keg Grove. White Oak will follow on August 7, Lil Beaver August 14 and Destihl on August 21. The beers will be available at the breweries and possibly other locations, according to the release.

“We are so fortunate to have such an amazing zoo in our community,” said Cat Woods, chairperson for the Brews for the Zoo event. “It is well-known for its behind-the-scenes conservation efforts.”

“By purchasing these collector beers, people will not on get to enjoy some delicious custom brews but also support the conservation efforts for the animals. And support local breweries. It’s a great opportunity to do multiple good…and have a good time doing it.”

The breweries have chosen animals housed at Miller Park Zoo and, along with the special brews, have created custom labels featuring their animals.

A portion of the beer sales will be donated to the nonprofit Miller Park Zoological Society.

Heart of Illinois ABC can be reached at [email protected]

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