The Lake County Libation Trail Check-in Challenge runs through April 18

Visit Lake County initiative drives business to local breweries, wineries and distilleries

GURNEE -- With the uniquely branded title of “The Libation Trail,” Lake County is blessed with over two dozen renowned producers of craft beer, local wine and distilled spirits.

Lake County’s official travel and tourism bureau, “Visit Lake County,” gathers these businesses together in marketing efforts throughout the year, to drive visitors and residents to locations where they can tour, sample and purchase these fine products.

April 9-18 is designated for a 10-day Lake County Libation Trail/Check-in Challenge. This is a semi-annual event where consumers are tasked with visiting multiple participating partner venues and using a downloadable mobile device platform to log their presence onsite, while hopefully purchasing some of the host’s beverages to enjoy or take home. Users who enroll and check in to two or more locations during these 10 days are entered into a drawing for prizes like gift cards, tours and overnight stays.

There are already almost 2,000 consumers who have signed up for the free mobile platform, showing a great interest in supporting these fun, creative gathering spots popping up in almost every community. Visit Lake County also offers a printed map guide of the Lake County Libation Trail destinations, showcasing all participating tasting rooms and production facilities. Each offers creative products for every taste and budget, as well as engaging highlights like live music, game nights, food service and loyalty programs.

Visit Lake County’s advises libation-ers to engage more people and to encourage support for the businesses including:

To sign up for the Lake County Libation Trail Check-in Challenge, guests may text “CHEERS” to 224.706.1133, or go to experience.visitlakecounty.org.

Visit two or more locations between April 9-18 to be entered in a sweepstakes to win great prizes and to receive Lake County Libation Trail updates.

Check in once per month at each location, year-round to earn special offers.

These offers are limited to individuals 21 years and older.

Tag your favorite beverages, friends and venue photos with #LCLibationTrail and/or #LetsGoLakeCounty.

Tip your server well, and tell them you’re following the Lake County Libation Trail.