There’s no place like home—and the garden! Our community gathered at Frunchroom Collective in Libertyville for the inaugural Home and Gnome Fest and pop-up market on Saturday, April 11th. After the success of the Crunchy Culture Fest at Honey House last fall, I knew a spring celebration was in order. There was no better venue to host it than Libertyville’s newest café and event space. With its focus on local community, wellness, and cozy décor, Frunchroom Collective provided the ideal “home away from home” for hundreds of participants.

Check out the full gallery of event photos.

Per Crunchy Culture’s mission, this event was designed around mindful connection, providing an opportunity to gather in person and discover incredible local resources. In addition to a pop-up market featuring local businesses, artists, and wellness experts, the day was packed with opportunities to connect, move, and learn new skills through complimentary workshops and movement sessions.

A Gathering of Local Businesses and Artisans

We were joined by over 20 incredible vendors, exhibitors, and workshop leaders who transformed the space into a home-and-garden lover’s paradise. From Chicagoland business owners and gardeners to bakers and yogis, I am so grateful to every talented individual who made the day magical. They truly embodied the community spirit by eagerly sharing their craft, wisdom, and passion with our attendees. You can learn more about them in our fest guide, and we encourage you to support them at their shops, markets, or online!

*Fest supporter

Sourdough Home Bakers Competition

It wouldn’t have been a “homey” fest without a sourdough bake-off. Our talented contestants brought a variety of fermented breads for the community to sample. It was up to our judges to pick a favorite, and I am glad I wasn’t one of them, as choosing was nearly impossible! From jalapeño cheddar and blueberry lemon to a standout gluten-free loaf, there was no shortage of mouthwatering options.

Congratulations to our grand prize winner, San Juan Sourdough! A big thank you to our bake-off prize sponsors: The Joyful Gourmet for the gift basket and Morel and Clover for the beautiful handmade apron.

Seed Swap and Gardening Tips

Alexis from Mini Earth Greenhouses teaches a spring planter workshop.

With spring in full bloom, we were so grateful to the “green thumbs” who shared their expertise. Fest supporter Mini Earth Greenhouses led a seed swap and spring planter demo, while Farmer Dan from Arlington Crest Farms brought a plethora of seedlings, houseplants, and microgreens, plus invaluable sustainable gardening tips. Additionally, master gardener and Intentional Teas founder, Shanna, led a session on growing healthful herbs in your own backyard. The gnomes are officially ready for planting season!

Workshops and Wellness

Steve from Kleverbelly demonstrates how to make sauerkraut.

Beyond the garden, the fest invited attendees to master traditional skills. Thanks to Steve and Aksana from Kleverbelly for teaching us the art of sauerkraut and fermented veggies (be sure to visit them at the Skokie and Palatine farmers markets!), and to our “booch master,” Michael, for the kombucha demo, samples, and starter kits.

Wellness Studio Movement Sessions

Little Yogis with Marisa from Marbear Yoga.

Our “home gym” (the wellness studio at Frunchroom Collective) was filled with positive energy all day. We enjoyed a “Little Yogis” yoga and craft session led by Marisa of Marbear Yoga, a mat Pilates class led by Deanna, courtesy of The Pilates PT, and a relaxing yoga flow with the amazing Sasha!

Family-Friendly Fun

Spring story time with About Time Bookstore for the little gnomes.

We loved seeing all the little gnomes at the fest! There were plenty of activities for all ages, including two spring storytimes with About Time Bookstore, DIY collage bookmarks with Emerald Momma’s Creations LLC, and a gnome scavenger hunt with thematic prizes.

A Heartfelt Thank You!

This event would not have been possible without our amazing partners. I want to express my utmost gratitude to my co-hosts, Ivy and Stu, and the entire team at Frunchroom Collective for helping us create an unforgettable day.

Thank you to:

Our fest supporter Mini Earth Greenhouses for sponsoring the seed swap, leading the planter demo and bringing your beautiful blooms to the event.
Our sourdough bakeoff participants
Sourdough bakeoff prize sponsors, The Joyful Gourmet and Morel and Clover
All our amazing exhibitors and vendors
Everyone who generously donated to our “Homebody” raffle
Each and every one of you that attended and celebrated spring with us!