On Saturday, October 21, from noon to 8 p.m., Locavore Farm, 11588 N. 17500E in Grant Park, will host its inaugural Autumn Art and Farm Experience – a curated event, connecting the creativity of handmade art and design with the development of agricultural ecosystems that inspire sustainable and self-sufficient food systems and lifestyles.
Partnering with market manager, LouLou Belle Markets, Locavore Farm will host 50+ artisans and makers from throughout the Midwest, with vendors setting up shop among the gardens, forest, and fields of Locavore Farm. Throughout the day and evening, there will be live music and dining at Locavore’s signature 100-foot table, set just steps from where ingredients for a farm-fresh menu grow.
“We are excited to announce a new event collaboration with our friends, Dodi and Lisa, co-owners of Loulou Belle in Homewood. For some time, we’ve discussed curating an experience here at the farm connecting art and nature in a way that would inspire and engage, said Rachael Jones, co-owner of Locavore Farm.
Mini-workshops will be held in Locavore’s historic farmhouse and feature the farm’s expansive educational program and collaboration with leading experts in permaculture, mycology (the study of mushrooms), bread-making, food preservation, foraging and wild medicine, plus more. Throughout the day, the event also will showcase the farm’s expansive educational program, a collaboration with many of the leading experts in permaculture design, backyard homesteading, sourdough and bread-making, food preservation, permaculture practices, foraging, wild medicine, mushrooms, and gardening.
“What makes this so unique is we’ve fused an opportunity for shopping and dining with an educational experience that will inspire and equip patrons to be more self-reliant in growing, preparing, storing, and using food for health and wellness, ” continued Jones.
The farm will feature outdoor activities, from pumpkin carving to jewelry making, a bonfire for marshmallow roasting, and a fabulous selection of pumpkins, gourds, and mums for all your fall decorating ideas. Come for a unique farm experience that will inspire and revive the heart and mind.
“October is a perfect time to find one-of-a-kind gifts and goods for the upcoming holiday season. Our collective vendors are selected for their creativity and craftsmanship, as well as a commitment to quality and originality,” noted Dodi Wians of LB Market.
Admission is $10, with those under 15 years of age free. Pre-purchase preferred, as space is limited, and Locavore events sell out quickly. Food and drink sold separately. Workshop sign-up and fees not included – ticket holders will be contacted via email on September 20 with a menu of creative and educational activities to round out their market experience. Parking is free.
Sponsors and event partnership includes LouLou Belle Finds, LB Market, Kankakee County Convention and Visitors Bureau, Potlikker Capital, Midwest Permaculture, Myco Labs, Living Permaculture, Knack Brewing, Healing Soils, and 50+ makers from throughout the Midwest.