You might be thinking, what is Taste of Extension? This event is the perfect opportunity for the public to come out, explore our program areas, and get a ‘taste’ of what Extension offers! 

We will have three programs open to youth and adults, which require registration. There will also be a Make & Take Garden pop-up activity youth can participate in, and you can donate to the Montgomery County 4-H Food Drive Contest where items will be donated to local food pantries.

Local food truck Lipe's Lunchbox will be available on-site to purchase dinner from 4:30 to 7 p.m.

Register below for Taste of Extension Programs:

Grow Together | 5 to 6 p.m.
Do you want to take your gardening to the next level? Join Illinois Extension Horticulture Educator Andrew Holsinger and Montgomery County Master Gardeners for some fun, hands-on activity stations. Plant seeds, water vegetables and flowers, dig in the soil, and more! Learn what plants you can grow together to make a pizza garden and how to care for them for the season. This program is perfect for caregivers and children who want to learn how to grow their own delicious and nutritious foods at home. go.illinois.edu/growtogether

Cooking Up Success: Launching Your Cottage Food Business Today! | 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Have you considered selling your homemade foods made in your home kitchen? There are basic guidelines that growers and vendors must observe in preparation for sales under the Illinois Cottage Food Law. Join Nutrition and Wellness Educator Lisa Peterson and Community and Economic Development Educator Valerie Belusko for a timely class about selling at the farmers market! Learn about the latest legislation concerning Illinois Cottage Food Law and how to comply with safety standards to ensure that cottage food products are safe, healthy, and enjoyable for all. Participants will gain valuable knowledge in marketing strategies, branding techniques, and fundamental business start-up procedures. go.illinois.edu/cookingupsuccess

4-H Projects 101 | 6 to 6:20 p.m.
Are you new to 4-H or have questions about the projects in 4-H? Not sure where to look in the showbook for your projects? Attend this 20-minute session to learn more about the project areas and what is expected at the 4-H shows. We will discuss the basics of the showbook and participants will have the opportunity to ask questions about 4-H projects. go.illinois.edu/montgomeryprojects101