NUNN IN THE OVEN
Thu. March 13, 2025 12:00 AM
by Jerry Nunn
The Windy City went wild with weenies on March, 12, 2024 thanks to a local holiday heralded as 312 Day. No matter what the area code they lived in, Chicagoans were deficient in vitamin D and inspired by bright rays to come outdoors that day.
The trio of the numbers 3-1-2 were paired together in 1947 and eventually ran out of options forcing Illinois to create more combinations. Goose Island scooped up this memorable area code by branding its brew with the title 312 Wheat Ale.
To boost sales in its birthplace the company served fermented concoctions in various locations. From the Weiner Circle to the Goose Island Salt Shed Pub, there was something for everyone to enjoy on the new holiday no matter what the budget was.
Starting at 3:12 p.m., hot dog enthusiasts lined up for the special event at 2622 North Clark Street. A courtyard behind the venue opened up options to enjoy the sunny afternoon and partake in pop-up activations around the fenced in area. Keeper's Heart Whiskey served samples and WYNK offered tastes of THC seltzers. Swag along with ticket program information was offered by hosts Do312 in the courtyard.
Employees in the front supplied sass on the side of a special $3.12 hot dog and Goose Island Beers were discounted to $3.12 for ticket holders.
The lovely Lucy Stoole stole the show with humor and talent that continues to make this drag artist unique. Hosting a Chicago costume contest is not an easy gig but Stoole brought the fun under the sun that day and kept the chili dogs warm. Hot dogs date back to the 1800s and they were originally called “dachshund sausages!”
Following the tunes of DJ Prosperity Room, out-and-proud DJ Ca$h Era had the Circle shaking to upbeat grooves before the event eventually closed down at 8 p.m.
Across town, a Chicago Fine Dining experience featured a five-course prix fixe menu at the Goose Island Salt Shed Pub, 1221 W. Blackhawk Street. The bustling team swept the room with perfectly plated morsels ranging from deconstructed Italian beef sandwiches to mini corn dogs on a stick. Careful research about the city paid off for this collaboration between Goose Island and Vienna Beef with unforgettable cuisine. This newly opened tavern with a skyline view along the Chicago River is the place to be seen before or after the nearby concert venue.
Supporting diverse businesses with an Illinois flair such as these companies continues to grow in importance to patrons in 2025. Relish the moment, grab your buns and run over do312.com to sign up for more fun events today!