Chicago Farmers Markets

Finally, Spring seems to be here to stay! With trees throughout the city bursting into full bloom and flower buds poking their heads out of the ground, one can not help but think how they can spend more time outdoors during the - in my opinion, best - but shortest season of the year. A great way to get out and around during the season are the Chicago Farmer's Markets. With over 70 vendors in places such as Beverly, Lincoln Park and Bucktown, there is almost certainly a farmers market near you. Although many vendors sell fresh produce among all other things, certain vendors will actually supply meals, such as fresh crepes, smoothies, burgers and even ice creams. You can find dates and other information through the official Chicago Farmers Markets website at: http://www.explorechicago.org/ key word "farmers markets".

Mindful Metropolis

http://www.mindfulmetropolis.com/ is a website that helps being communities together across the city of Chicago in eco-friendly and conscious ways that bring people out of their houses and help them become an active part of their community. Their goal is to find sustainable ways to enjoy and build on each individual community in the city. They work with the arts, design and green culture by bringing citizens together through various activities. They serve as an inspiration for hundreds of people across Chicago. 
"We are eco-active, enviro-sensitive and socially involved. We are connecting Chicago’s conscious community. WE ARE MINDFUL METROPOLIS" Mindful Metropolis says on their "about" page.
If you live in the city and are searching for ways to reach out in your neighborhood or the Windy City as a whole, you can check out their page which is linked to at the beginning of this blog post. 
If you want to be active, be inspired, or to go out and do something, you can start with this amazing page. 

Chicago Flower and Garden Show

For Chicago natives who may be reading this or for out-of-towners who are planning a spring break getaway to the Windy City, the beautiful Chicago Flower and Garden Show is up and running at Navy Pier! Over 100 flower vendors, a flower fashion show and 25 (or more) vibrant gardens will be featured there until the 18th of March. There are also various seminars that you alone or with a group can attend on topics such as how to create a rooftop garden and how to plant in an urban environment. There are also potting parties which tend to be a lot of fun! 

Tablescapes will also be featured at this year's Flower and Garden Show. Eye-catching flower arrangements from Chicago's hottest clubs, restaurants, hotels and other indoor attractions. Watch Chicago's most celebrated florists work in their best environment! The Flower Show is by far one of the best ways to celebrate spring. Loads of fun and flowers await at this year at the Chicago Flower and Garden Show! 

Visit http://www.chicagoflower.com/ for pricing. You get a $2 discount on tickets when you buy online! Otherwise, they're available at the Navy Pier Box Office.