Article updated: 3/13/2012 1:12 PM

Green thumbs and beer on tap for weekend fun

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Peppermint Paddy Martini

Courtesy of McCormick

Dina Cimarusti of Alliance Bakery won CARBA's 2011 cake competition with this fanciful creation.

Courtesy of CARBA

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Familyfarmed.org

Luck of the Irish Cake Pops

Courtesy of McCormick

Bill Zars/bzars@dailyherald.com ¬ Deb Pankey new column mug for food front. ¬

About this Article

If you're eager to get your backyard garden started or learn more about local agriculture or want to watch top chefs cook with seasonal vegetables and decorate unique cakes you may need to skip the St. Patrick's Day parade. Between FamilyFarmed.org’s Good Food Festival and the Chicago Flower & Garden Show, there are plenty of opportunities to connect with the land and that which grows from it.