Now, all these events are going to be in Chicago since that’s where I live.  However, if you have anything you’d like me to add in your local area, just let me know!

Veggie Fest 2008 - Its a 2 day festival featuring cooking demonstrations, 40 vegetarian food venders and exhibitors, and discusssions on heathful living.  11 am - 6 pm Saturday at the Science of Spirituality Center, 4S175 Naperville Rd., Napterville.  For more information, call 800-222-2207

Windy City Chili Cookoff - Cooks compete for the best chili in salsa, chili verde, and traditional categories as part of the Retro on Roscoe Street Festival.  The $5 entry fee includes samples of the chili with they last.  The fee also benefits St. Teresa of Avila food pantry.  1 pm Saturday and Sunday at Roscoe St and Hoyne Ave.  For more information, call 773-871-5623

Morel Tales - The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is presenting  “Exploring the Wild Mushroom . . . Myths, Flavors, and Facts” at Kendall College in a Chicago Foodways Roundtable discussion.  $3 unless you are a Kendall College student (then free).  10 am Saturday at Kendal College, 900 N North Branch St.  Reservations can be made by calling 847-432-8255 or emailing chicago.foodways.roundtable@gmail.com

Party With Style -  Justin Hall from FIG Catering shows how to host an elegant and delicious dinner party.  Free. 2 pm Saturday at Bloomingdale’s Home & Furniture Store, 600 N Wabash Ave.  For more information, call 312-324-7678

fish Tips - Sam Dean grills halibut basted with maple chipotle marinade in a demonstration class for free.  Noon Saturday at Burhops Seafood, Plaza Del Lago, 1515 N Sheridan Road, Wilmette.  For more information, please call 847-256-6400

Brunch Demystified - Keven Hickey and Jonathan Lane of the Four Seasons present classes that explore the hotel’s famous Sunday brunch.  $100 includes brunch.  11 am August 10 and August 24.  120 W Delaware Pl.  For reservations, please call 312-649-2325

Sweet and Savory Grilling - Chefs Pamela Fitzpatrick and Mark Gyure show how to make three seasonal pizzas and desserts on the grill.  August 12 at Fox & Obel, 401 E Illinois St.  For reservations, call 312-379-0133

Swedish specialty - Chef Donna Scheppe teaches how to create a Swedish tea ring in a hands on class for $25.  1 pm August 4 at Two Kitchens, 2035 W Washington St, Suite 155, Naperville.  Register by calling 630-717-9630.