Celebrate Fall with Early Autumn Events at Chicago Botanic Garden {September Fun}

Image courtesy of Chicago Botanic Garden

**Disclosure: No compensation was received for this post. All opinions are 100% my own.

While you are busy putting together schedules for the first month of school, don't forget to add a couple of fun and educational events at Chicago Botanic Garden to your to do list. In September, the Chicago Botanic Garden will be hosting an opportunity for the public to explore the world of mushrooms and even purchase some of their own. Later in the month, the gourd sale and show will visit the garden. Both events will incorporate children's activities to help children learn more about mushrooms and gourds and their roles. Both events are free of charge, parking at the Chicago Botanic Garden is $25 per car (free for members). Here are a few more details about each:

Image courtesy of Chicago Botanic Garden

Explore the Fascinating World of Fungi on September 7, 2014

• The free event will run from 10:00AM-4:30PM.
• Visitors will learn about mushroom hunting, how fungi are used and their role in the ecosystem.
• Children's activities will be available.
• There will be opportunities to purchase mushrooms, books, t-shirts and more.

Gourd Sale and Show September 20-21

• The free event will run 10:00AM-4:30PM each day.
• Gourds of all sorts of shapes and sizes will be available for viewing.
• Illinois Gourd Society members will be available for questions about gourd culture, uses, crafting and more.
• Demos will allow families to explore gourd crafting and growing.
• Gourd farmers will be selling dried gourds for crafting.
• Skilled gourd artisans will be displaying and selling gourd art.
• There will be other workshop events in conjunction with this festival. Check with Chicago Botanic Garden for more information, registration and fees.

Of course, while at the botanic garden, you will need to take a stroll! Combine one of these events with a walk through some of the gardens and you will have a pleasant fall day! While at the garden, be sure to stop at the Fruit and Vegetable Garden for some family drop in activities. Plus, it is always fun to see what is ready for harvest!