Green Festival Comes To Chicago This Weekend

The smell of Spring is in the air, I went to my first farmer’s market of the season and that must mean it’s time for the third annual Green Festival in Chicago. This will be my third year attending and I can’t wait.  The first year it was enlightening to see so many people who held similar interests to myself.  I was amongst peers who shared my passion.  I learned a lot and was inspired.  Last year I went and took some time to listen to more speakers and stop and talk to the vendors. This year I’ll be on cruise control – learning and enjoying the day.

My recommendation if you’re going and have time – scout out some speakers to listen to.  They’re very informative and some of the best  and brightest in the green community.  Last year I had the privilege of listening to Jodi Murphy of Murco Recycling and host of Wrecklamation, Graham Hill – founder of Treehugger.com, and the ever lovely and passionate green advocate, Sara Snow.  Here’s some of that action from last year.  There are a lot of great speakers this year, too.  Check ‘em out over at http://www.greenfestivals.org and watch past speakers in the TV section.

While it’s okay to be a gawker and just kinda do a drive-by of the various booths – don’t be shy to go up and have a conversation.  You’d be surprised how friendly these folks are and how much you could learn.  One more tip – bring extra cash.  There are a lot of vendors who sell items cheap at the Green Fest – like $10 organic cotton polo shirts or the baby outfits.  Or just have cash on hand for that “must-have” green item.  I’m not advocating consumerism, but if you’re going to buy something anyway – get it from a small business and get something you can respect – vote with your dollars, right?  Oh – and while there are lots of yummy samples out there – check out the organic food vendors and stuff your face with goodness! 

Photo gallery of 2008 Green Festival

The skinny:

Event Details:
Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Avenue, Chicago

Saturday, May 16: 10:00AM – 7:00PM

Sunday, May 17: 11:00AM – 6:00PM

$15 for two days/$10 for seniors, students, and all who arrive by bicycle or public transit

FREE: Children 18 and younger, Green America or Global Exchange members and volunteers, those who bring three or more books to donate to BetterWorldBooks

PS – Be sure to stop by booth 1405 to visit our friends at RecycleMe Organic Tees