There are so many wine and beer-tastings and networking events in Logan Square: whether you’re new to the area or a long-time resident, it’s hard to keep track of all the comings and goings. So where should you get your info, other than good old LoganSquarist?
The Taste of Logan Square, a brand-new event hosted by the Logan Square Chamber of Commerce (3147 W. Logan Blvd.), happens Oct. 22. And due to the popularity of their gatherings, the event sold out almost immediately around mid-September.
But don’t worry—it’s just one of the many events held throughout the year, sampling drinks and “bite-sized items” from such up-and-coming places as BiXi Beer, Merchant, and Papa Cenar.
If you’re looking for an opportunity to schmooze or you’re a business person looking to make new contacts, then The Logan Square Chamber of Commerce is a great resource.
While the name might sound as imposing, like some Iron Bank of Braavos, they’re actually a really friendly group of civic-minded people who contribute to the commercial unity and personality of Logan Square.
I recently spoke to Jessica Wobbekind, the executive director of the LSCC, and asked her what the Chamber of Commerce is, and what it provides for the neighborhood:
“The Chamber is a membership organization that exists to support, promote and advocate for the local business community,” Wobbekind said. “We work for economic development that preserves and enhances all that makes Logan Square the neighborhood we love. “
The LSCC has many events that are fun and informative for everyone, touching on subjects like finding affordable healthcare, informal meetings with the local police department, and conflict management training.
My first interaction with the LSCC was at one of their partnerships with the Wicker Park/Bucktown Chamber of Commerce Networking Mixer, one of their many team-ups with WPBCC.
It was a great introduction to both organizations because I got to talk with local vendors face-to-face, hand out business cards and meeting interesting-yet-laid-back people who are also on their grind. For a mere $10 entry fee I learned a lot and I made quite a few friends that night.
It was also Jessica’s first year as Executive Director. It’s been two years this month, and she’s loving every minute of it. “What I enjoy so much is that it’s a little bit of everything,” she tells me. “(The) strategic planning, community and economic development– but also the super fun things, such as public art installation, pedestrian and bicycle safety initiatives, event planning: even a huge (Logan Square) Farmers Market!
The Logan Square Farmers Market is a vibrant and vital extension of the LSCC. In the spring and summer, it’s abuzz with sounds, smells, live music and friendly dogs at its outdoor location across the street from the Logan Square Monument. It’s something we all can say makes our community a vibrant place!
In the fall and winter season, the market is cozily placed inside Emporium (2363 N. Milwaukee Ave.), a great place to come in from the cold and get fresh veggies, try new cuisine and play arcade games.
While meeting with Wobbekind at last week’s Farmers Market I got to meet Rosie Fitz,
market manager of the Logan Square Farmers Market. And the three of us agree that the fall season rocks in Logan Square. As much as we all enjoy warm weather, the fall colors make for a stunning backdrop.
“As the market manager, I have to say my favorite event is the outdoor season of the market,” Fitz said. “Especially during the later months in fall. Most farmers set up “tentless” and all of the fall crops look stunning on the boulevard.”
A Logan Square native since she was “a tot”, this is Rosie’s 4th year with the LSCC, specifically managing the Logan Square Farmer’s Market.
“Seeing pups in their sweaters, kids in their coats, and farmers in their Carhartt gear– I love it all. It’s so fun to watch everyone prepare for the winter and embrace the bounty of the fall.”
So if you want to cure your FOMO in whatever season you’re into, follow the LSCC on Facebook and Instagram to learn more about their many networking events, and check out the Logan Square Farmers Market.
Featured photo: Erik Island
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