Chicago’s hometown cheese and wine shop, Pastoral, kicks off a season of celebration Saturday, August 17 with a free ice cream social and bubbly toast. The event will be held from 3pm-5pm, rain or shine, at 2945-47 N Broadway, Pastoral’s original storefront location. This is a free, drop-in event, so no RSVP is required.

The event will feature a scoop of Pastoral’s famous aged gouda gelato in partnership with Chicago’s own Black Dog Gelato and Essex Cheese/Fromagerie L’Amuse of the Netherlands. This not-to-be-missed, fan-favorite flavor will be paired with a sparkling ros​é Cuvee courtesy of Michigan’s acclaimed MAWBY Vineyards at the event hosted by co-founders/co-owners Ken Miller and Greg O’Neill. Ice cream and bubbly available while supplies last. Patrons must be 21+ to be served the sparkling wine.

“Since 2004, we’ve served the highest-quality artisanal cheese, specialty food and wine from the world’s finest producers to the Chicago community, and 15 years later, we couldn’t be prouder,” said Greg O’Neill. “To still be operating not one, but three locations around the city is an honor and this celebration season is our way of saying thank you to our loyal customers for their continued support of our small business, at a time when it is not easy for small independent businesses.”

In addition to Saturday’s event, Pastoral stores and Bar Pastoral, Pastoral’s popular neighborhood wine bar and bistro, will feature a variety of $15 specials from Friday, August 16 – Sunday, August 18. Loyal customers and new faces alike are encouraged to stop in and celebrate.

Pastoral will also partner with the Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce at the Lakeview East Festival of the Arts from Saturday, September 14 – Sunday, September 15 as the event’s official wine sponsor, with the support of H2Vino and Maverick Wines. Both Pastoral and the festival celebrate their 15th anniversary in 2019, making it the ultimate cultural partnership. Pastoral’s presence at the festival, which attracts over 40,000 annual visitors, will feature presentations from well-known sommeliers such as Alpana Singh, four of its signature wines, a cheese and specialty food tent and a wine garden where patrons can sit, sip and enjoy Pastoral fare.

Following the summer festivities, Bar Pastoral will continue the anniversary celebration with a series of Fall Pastoral Alumni Chef Takeovers. These will include talented culinary professionals such as Josh Kulp (Honey Butter Fried Chicken), Chrissy Camba (Cirque du Soleil), Brooks Hart (Little Goat), Bobby Schaefer (Lost Larson) and more to be announced. Each takeover will celebrate the heart of Pastoral with a personal flair. Stay tuned for more information.