If you’ve never been, you’re in for a treat! If you attended before, I’m sure that you plan on going again. After all, who can resist those expert cooking demos by master chefs from some of Chicago’s best restaurants? Or the opportunity to purchase quality, fresh-from-the-farm food and gift items? 
Or the expert speakers, authors, food artisans and, of course, family farmers sharing their wisdom? It's also an opportunity to reconnect with like-minded friends that you may not see often enough.
This year’s incredible Family Farmed EXPO lineup of top chefs offering cooking demos featuring sustainable and local food includes Rick Bayless (Frontera Grill/Topolobampo/Xoco), Paul Virant (Vie), Paul Kahan (Blackbird/Avec/Big Star/Publican), Jo Kaucher & Kim Gracen (Chicago Diner) and Gale Gand (Tru).
I can’t wait!
The workshop roster this year is its best ever. Some of the timely topics that will be covered include: city farming, raising bees and chickens on your own, tips on preserving fresh-grown food, and how to grow and use herbs and botanicals to feed your senses.
There’s even an interactive Kid’s Corner hosted by Purple Asparagus, a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing families back to the table by promoting and enjoying all the things associated with good eating.
I’m proud to say that I’ve been a Family Farmed EXPO volunteer, tabler, attendee and speaker since its inception. Through the years, I’ve seen this EXPO evolve into what it is today – a rockin’ good time that offers Chicagoans a great opportunity to connect with all things good.
If you do plan on attending, may I offer you some advice? Save money – buy your ticket in advance. Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring your own re-usable bag to hold everything you’ll gather that day and bring small bills (singles and fives) instead of twenties. Have business cards? Bring them along for some networking opportunities!
If you are coming from the suburbs, consider using public transportation. This year’s EXPO location (725 West Roosevelt Road, Chicago) is especially commuter-friendly with CTA buses (#7 and #60) connecting the Metra train stations to the site.
I can’t think of a better way to spend a Saturday than enjoying a wide selection of local food and great information to help you eat healthy year-round, while supporting local farms and businesses. I hope to see you there!
Note: If you’re free the night before, check out the EXPO’s Localicious party where you’ll find top chefs, local libations, 400 cool foodies, members of the media and more than a few farmers.
