Your Destination for Unique Craft Spirit Experiences in Rockford
Experience Rockford distillery events – Barnstormer Beyond the Tasting Room
From intimate dinners to live music nights, our aircraft hangar hosts unforgettable events that blend craft spirits, exceptional food, and unique experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
View Full Calendar | Gift Cards Available | (815) 269-4069
FEATURED UPCOMING EVENTS
STILL RUNNING (THE MONTHLY LAST THURSDAY EVENT)
KENTUCKY DERBY (MAY 2 2026)
CINCO DE MAYO (MAY 5 2026)
MOTHERS DAY (MAY 10 2026) (Info Soon)
MURDER AT MACHESNEY FIELD MAY 30 2026
Smash Burgers & Test Kitchen Return + Triple Release
Spring is almost here, and that means two things: our legendary Smashburgers are back soon, and it’s time to get weird. After a long winter away, our outdoor griddle fires up again on April 11 — and to celebrate, we’re launching two exclusive Test Kitchen Weekends. April 11-12 & April 18-19
For just $8 (or $6 for Aviator Club members), you can order a secret experimental burger creation, chosen by our kitchen and served with a comment card. Your feedback isn’t just welcome — it shapes our seasonal menu and specials. Past Test Kitchen burgers have ranged from the nostalgic (Peanut Butter & Jelly Burger) to the gloriously unhinged (the Quadruple Donut Blastoff — 4 meats, 3 cheeses, 2 donuts, and a fried egg). What will this year bring? Come find out — and bring your appetite and your opinions.
If that’s not enough reason to make April 11 a date, it will be our first triple release (Possibly the World’s first?). Barnstormer Maple Syrup Whiskey Liqueur, CAVU Refined Maple, and Bourbon Barrel aged Maple Syrup all released April 11. If it was ever worth the drive, this is the time to come out and visit Barnstormer.
GIFT CARDS
Give the Gift of Barnstormer Experiences
Perfect for spirit lovers, foodies, and anyone seeking unique Illinois adventures. Barnstormer gift cards can be used for:
✓ Tasting room cocktails & flights
✓ Bottle purchases
✓ Special event tickets
✓ Private tastings
✓ Custom barrel programs
✓ Food from The Brasserie
Available in any amount – delivered instantly via email
Gift cards never expire and make perfect gifts for holidays, birthdays, anniversaries, or any celebration!
FULL EVENT CALENDAR
Live Music Nights
Join us for live music in our aircraft hangar during summer months! Check our Facebook and Instagram for weekly lineups and featured artists.
Follow us for announcements: @barnstormerdistillery
Weekend Food Service
The Brasserie at Barnstormer serves farm-fresh dishes every weekend that pair perfectly with our craft spirits.
Friday: 4-7 PM
Saturday: 12-7 PM
Sunday: 11-4:30 PM
Private Events & Venue Rental
Host Your Event at Barnstormer
Our unique aircraft hangar setting is perfect for:
✓ Corporate events & team building
✓ Wedding receptions & rehearsal dinners
✓ Birthday parties & milestone celebrations
✓ Private tastings & spirit education sessions
✓ Holiday parties & special occasions
Available Spaces:
The Hangar – Main tasting room with authentic aviation atmosphere
Tented Area – Accommodates up to 50 people under cover (summer/music nights)
VIP Gazebo with Fire Pit – Intimate setting for up to 15 people
Contact us to discuss your private event:
(815) 269-4069 | marketing@barnstormerdistillery.com
Stay Connected
Never miss an event!
Follow us on Facebook for event announcements
Follow us on Instagram for behind-the-scenes and updates
Join our email list – Contact us to be added
Questions about events? Call (815) 269-4069
Event Policies
Reservations: Required for all special events. Walk-ins welcome for regular tasting room hours.
Cancellations: Event tickets are non-refundable. All sales final.
Dietary Restrictions: Contact us in advance and we’ll accommodate to the best of our ability.
Dress Code: Casual for regular visits. Themed attire encouraged (but not required) for special events.
Group Size: Larger groups should call ahead for seating arrangements.
The Choice Is Yours
You can visit another distillery that follows the rules, uses automation, and plays it safe with predictable flavors.
Or you can experience what happens when innovation meets Illinois tradition in an actual aircraft hangar.
Come taste the difference. Come be part of the revival.
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