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Plants, Cuisine and Culture

Plants are intimately linked to our cultural identities and food traditions. Plants tell us where we are, and who we are in how we use them to feed ourselves. When we migrate, we carry our culture and cuisine with us.

In this virtual series, renowned chefs, culinary historians, and authors from cultures around the world discuss how plants shaped their foodways. Participants can join remotely or participate in a watch party hosted by the Conservatory (please select this option during registration) featuring a social hour, light refreshments and a cash bar.

Classes

Participants register for classes individually not for the series as a whole. More speakers to be announced!

Native American Cuisine with Sean Sherman Thanks to everyone who attended!
January 24 | 7-8pm

 Hawaiian Cuisine with Sheldon Simeon Thanks to everyone who attended!
March 21 | 7-8pm Indian Cuisine with Simon Majumdar Thanks to everyone who attended!
May 8 | 7-8pm African American Cuisine with Toni Tipton-Martin Thanks to everyone who attended!
July 25 | 7-8pm Mexican Cuisine with Pati Jinich September 26 | 7-8pm

Partners

Frequently Asked Questions

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Who can register for these classes?

Organized by Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Chicago Botanic Garden, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Missouri Botanical Garden and Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, registration for these classes is open to anyone.

Do I need to register for all of the classes?

No. While this is a connected series, registration is separate for each individual class. You can register for one class, all classes in the series, or any number in between.

Each individual class is $12, $10 for members

Are these classes virtual?

These are lecture-style classes that registrants will join virtually; however, the Conservatory will host a free watch party for each class for anyone who selects the option during registration. The watch party will include a social hour, light refreshments, and a cash bar. 

Please indicate if you’d like to attend the watch party when registering. Participants are still welcome to enjoy the series from their homes if they prefer.

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