Events

The closing event of this year’s Less Lawn More Life Challenge, will be led by Lisa Olsen, Chapter Liaison at Wild Ones. In this webinar, you’ll learn how small, personal actions like planting native species and removing invasives, can ripple outward to inspire neighbors, change policies, and reshape communities. 

During the premiere, native plant experts from Wild Ones and collaborating organizations will be active in the live chat. They’ll be ready to answer questions, share tips, and connect viewers with resources. The live chat will remain open for 30 minutes after the webinar, giving you plenty of time to ask questions and engage. Please note: You must be logged into a YouTube account to participate in the chat. 

The Less Lawn More Life Challenge is a free, 12-week action series designed to help people transform traditional lawns into vibrant, life-supporting native plant habitat. Each week, participants complete a simple challenge like planting a native shrub, removing invasives, or observing pollinators to reimagine their outdoor space and take meaningful steps toward restoring biodiversity at home. 

It’s not too late to get involved. Catch up on the weekly videos and start your rewilding journey today at https://www.lesslawnmorelife.com/ 

Discover the beauty, versatility and value of native plants. Tour 12 colorful, life-filled gardens in Forest Park and River Forest, Illinois, during our annual Birds, Bees & Butterflies Native Garden Tour July 26, 2025 from 1 to 5 p.m.



EXPLORE GARDENS

Meet passionate and knowledgeable home gardeners who have been experimenting with and observing native plants for years. They’ll guide you through their gardens and answer your specific questions about native gardening.

You will

learn about ecological gardening practices that help promote biodiversity in the home landscape.see gardeners' favorite native plants and hear how they change throughout the seasons.tour small gardens and large gardens, manicured looks and more carefree ones, and newly planted and mature established landscapes.

Whether you’re a beginning gardener or have more soil beneath your nails than you care to reveal, you’ll walk away with practical, hands-on tips you can apply to your own yard.

TOUR MAP: Ticket holders will receive a tour map two days before the event. If you register after 7/23, you will automatically receive the map and garden descriptions in your email. Be sure to check the "Additional Information" section of the email ticket for the map and garden descriptions. We recommend biking or driving; the locations are spread widely.

VOLUNTEER FOR THE TOUR: We need volunteer garden docents. You’ll receive a free tour ticket. Sign up: Volunteer with Us!

Details coming soon! 

Details coming soon! 

Details coming soon!