What the heck is Locktoberfest?
Locktoberfest is a party! First things first, we’re here to have fun. What’s fun for us? Lockpicking! Also: beer and brats and…. you! Locktoberfest is open to everyone, from world class lockpickers to those interested in learning for the first time.
Locktoberfest is a day of learning, teaching, and competitions (serious and frivolous) related to lockpicking.
The Chicago chapter of TOOOL has been getting together to play with locks for a while now and we decided that “October” is just as good an excuse for a party as any. Come on out and join us!
Details & Attending
Showing up is all you really need to do. We ran this event several times already and people usually tell us they really enjoy the laid back format, so we’re not changing things too much.
- The Particulars:
- Where: “Pumping Station: One”, 3519 N. Elston Ave (map)
- When: Saturday, October xx 2024, time 1-10pmish
- Cost: Donations accepted and encouraged
- How to prepare: Please fill a Waiver for entering the location.
- What to Bring: Yourself, your friends, picks and locks if you’ve got ‘em (and a side dish if you’re ambitious; brats will be provided). The event is BYOB.
There will be events going on throughout the day (Schedule), so feel free to drop in at any time. If you’re a beginner, make sure to catch the intro presentations we will have (schedule coming for exact times). If you’ve got some locks under your belt, plan to take part in the competitions, or attend the advanced workshops.
Lockpicking is a hobby?
Lockpicking for fun and curiosity (sometimes called “locksport”), is a pastime with a venerable history in Europe that has recently leapt in popularity in the US.
Different people enjoy it for many reasons, but most everyone gets hooked when they first have the undeniable James Bond thrill that comes from defeating a lock using only a couple pieces of metal and your skills.
Anyone can learn, and most are surprised at how easily they open their first lock. Come try it out!
Our sponsors
FAQ
Are under-21 attendees permitted?
Yes: Pumping Station One is open to the public, as are TOOOL events. We intend Locktoberfest to be a family-friendly event (and kids love lockpicking. Really!). However, due to the nature of the PS1 facility, no unaccompanied minors are allowed.
Is this legal?
Yes, absolutely. In Illinois, lockpicks are legal to own, carry, and use provided you are not committing another crime while using them.
Do I need to already have tools?
No, we’ve got lots of loaners that you can use during the event. If you’d like to purchase your own, we humbly suggest the Beginner’s Blend pick kit available from the TOOOL.us store. It’s a great value, and proceeds go directly back to events like this.
You didn’t answer my question!
Technically, that’s not a question. But never fear: ask at Chicago TOOOL chapter or @TOOOLChicago and we’ll get you sorted.
