The festival kicks off at 10 a.m. with an array of family-friendly activities, including face painting, balloon artistry, and appearances by the center’s canine ambassador, Keenam. A major highlight is the Harvest Haul, a scavenger hunt that encourages guests to collect stickers from various retailers. Participants who complete at least eight stops qualify for a prize drawing, headlined by a two-night getaway to Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa.
Educational programming takes center stage during the morning hours, with experts from the Lake County Farm Bureau and the Illinois Sustainable Agriculture Partnership leading discussions on soil health and urban farming. At 1 p.m., the focus shifts to pets with the Yappy Hour event, featuring a costume contest and an adoption drive hosted by PAWS Chicago.
As the sun sets, the atmosphere transitions into an adult-oriented celebration. Starting at 4 p.m., the Harvest Festival Bites & Sips experience offers small plates from local restaurants like City Works and Mendocino Farms, while the Bourbon & Bonfires sessions provide tastings and education near the site's fire pits. Tickets for these evening segments range from $35 to $55, with proceeds supporting local hunger-relief initiatives and school programs.
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