Wolfden Hosts 50 Artists this Saturday in Bloomingdale!

This Saturday, October 11, Wolfden Brewing in Bloomingdale once again opens its haunted gates for the second annual Merchants of the Macabre Market. From 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., more than fifty artists, makers, and oddity dealers will transform the brewery’s front lot, side yard, and beer garden into a marketplace of the strange and spectacular. Admission is free, the event is family-friendly, and leashed pets are welcome in outdoor areas.

The beer garden at Wolfden from a previous market showing artist tents and patrons enjoying the vibe. Photo by Streetz

A Brewery with Spirits Beyond the Beer

Few markets can claim a truly haunted venue—but this one can.

Wolfden Brewing’s historic building dates back to 1851, long before its life as a taproom. According to local lore, a woman once fell to her death in a backyard well, and a man named “Jack” may have perished on the property during the Civil or Blackhawk Wars. Paranormal researchers and mediums have reported contact with “Jack,” as well as a mysterious upstairs “portal area” believed to connect the living with the supernatural.

Over the years, the brewery has documented countless eerie incidents: drained batteries, magnets flying from walls, footsteps echoing after close, and even construction barrels inexplicably toppling on the highway—activity said to be linked to a Civil War marble co-owner Katie Wolf once moved (and hastily returned).

While unsettling, the staff insists the resident spirits are more mischievous than malevolent.

“There’s only one way to find out for yourself,” the brewery teases. “Visit our famously haunted taproom—and see if Jack says hello.”

A Marketplace of the Macabre

From bone art and fossil curiosities to resin-encased insects, spooky crochet cryptids, and handmade dice for tabletop gamers, the Merchants of the Macabre Market celebrates the eerie and the extraordinary through handcrafted work.

Featured artists include:

• The Hooked Leviathan (Cam Best): Pastel goth and sea witch-inspired jewelry, from shark tooth necklaces to bone candle holders.

• BlackCraft Arts (Danii): Vibrant glass eyeball jewelry and keychains—hundreds of designs, all customizable.

• Scary Terri’s Crafts: Spooky sewing from Villa Park—bags, wallets, patches, and more.

• Clay Urn Publishing (S. & E. Black): Local authors debut The Chimera Snare dark fantasy series with exclusive artisan-made swag.

• Bea-Hooked: Crocheted containers shaped like cryptids, pastries, and plants—oddly adorable and functional.

• Magic Sasquatch Studio: Monsters, myths, and mayhem in sticker form.

• Custom Dice by Alyssa: Unique resin dice crafted for Dungeons & Dragons fans.

Dozens more artisans will bring eerie creations in every medium—from woodworking and embroidery to candles, fossils, and jewelry—ensuring surprises in every corner.

Even the crochet pieces can be creepy spooky - photo by Jennifer Shiner

Giving Back Through the Macabre

Many participating artists are donating part of their proceeds to local and national charities, letting the spooky season’s spirit extend to meaningful causes. Beneficiaries include:

• The Trevor Project

• Cancer Research (Reflections with Kate)

• Brave Space Alliance

• Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights

• St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

• Michigan Cat Rescue (Clay Urn Publishing)

• Alzheimer’s Association & The Brigid Alliance (None of This is Cake)

• Planned Parenthood, PAWS, NPR, and gun reform organizations (ScarabSanctuary)

“Patrons often discover that when they shop local, they’re also supporting vital causes,” said curator John Streetz of the Streetz Artz Alliance, which organizes the market. “This year’s curation balances returning favorites with exciting debuts, and many artists have created pieces specifically for this event’s macabre theme. It’s a perfect blend of spooky fun and community impact.”

Brewing Up Spirits and Snacks

Inside the taproom, guests can enjoy ten rotating beers, including fan favorites like Foggy Thoughts and Highlander, alongside cider, seltzers, and cocktails. Pub-style fare—cheese curds, pretzels, and fries—will keep adventurers fueled for another trip through the macabre market outside.

Event Details

What: Merchants of the Macabre Market

Where: Wolfden Brewing, 112 W. Lake St., Bloomingdale, IL

When: Saturday, October 11, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Cost: Free admission, family-friendly, pets welcome outdoors

For the full vendor list and event updates, visit the Facebook Event Page: https://www.facebook.com/events/1098445088985785

Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast, a paranormal thrill-seeker, or simply a fan of unique handmade art, the Merchants of the Macabre Market at Wolfden Brewing promises a chillingly good time.