Dead Head Flower Fest

Saturday, August 29
10 am - 3 pm

Celebrate the spirit of summer at Dead Head Flower Fest, a free, family-friendly festival at Elawa Farm inspired by the music and good vibes of the Grateful Dead. Spend the day enjoying live music, hands-on floral activities, specialty food and drinks, and fun for all ages, all set against the beautiful backdrop of the Farm. Whether you're creating a bouquet, relaxing with friends, exploring the grounds, or participating in one of our signature farm experiences, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Admission is free and the festival is open to the public. While many activities are complimentary, select experiences, food, beverages, and activities will be available for purchase.

Schedule of events

10 am - 1 pm

Bouquet bar, flower crown station, tie-dye station, face painting, children’s craft, giant bubble making
1 pm - 3 pm

Live music by The Smoking Fish, a Grateful Dead tribute band

Festival Activities

Create your own bouquet at our bouquet bar, make a flower crown, get your face painted, or show off your creativity at our tie-dye station. Kids can enjoy free flower-themed arts and crafts, plus giant bubble-making fun throughout the day.

Specialty themed drinks and snow cones will be available for purchase, and the Cafe and Market will be open for regular business hours.

Farm Experiences

Our regularly scheduled farm experiences will also be taking place throughout the day, including Public Farm Tours, Yoga on the Farm, and animal programs like Hooves & Hugs, Goat Stroll, and Feathery Friends. Please note that these programs require advance registration and may sell out. If you'd like to participate, be sure to reserve your tickets before the festival.

Parking & Shuttle Information

Parking at Elawa Farm is limited. We kindly ask guests to park at St. James Lutheran Church (1380 N. Waukegan Road, Lake Forest), located just three blocks north of the Farm, and take advantage of our complimentary shuttle service to and from the festival throughout the day. Please follow event signage and shuttle attendants upon arrival.

We Need Volunteers!

We’re looking for volunteers to help bring Dead Head Flower Fest to life! Lend a hand at the bouquet bar, giant bubble station, kids’ crafts, or tie-dye station, and spend the day surrounded by flowers, creativity, music, and good vibes.
Sign up for a volunteer shift here and join us!

We Can't Wait to Celebrate With You!

Whether you're here for the music, flowers, family activities, or simply to enjoy a beautiful summer day on the Farm, Dead Head Flower Fest is the perfect way to celebrate the season. We look forward to seeing you at Elawa Farm!