Yearly Morel Mushroom Celebration in Ottawa to Commemorate Deceased Forager
Going Mushroom Foraging? Catch the Midwest Morel Fest in Ottawa this May!
Shake off those winter blues by diving headfirst into spring with a thrilling day out at the annual Midwest Morel Fest! Set to take place in sunny Ottawa, IL, on May 3, 2025, this event promises an adventure filled with excellent learning opportunities, guided forays, mouth-watering mushroom markets, and more!
Kick-start your day by enrolling in the "Morel University" at 8 AM, nestled within the historic Jordan Block. Here, expert foragers will share their wisdom on the art of mushroom hunting, making you an instant pro! At 8:45 AM, board the hunting buses for a guided foray into the enchanting local forests.
As you traverse the picturesque trails, put your newfound skills to the test and hunt for those elusive morel mushrooms. Keep an eye out for these prized culinary delicacies – any that you gather can be sold at the market that runs from 3 PM!
More than just a hunting extravaganza, the Midwest Morel Fest also celebrates the life of the late Tom Nauman, who played an instrumental role in founding the festival. In his memory, the event will host a vendor market and an awards ceremony to honor his legacy.
But wait, there’s more! This year’s festival will unveil Mini Morel Hunt Murals, adding a splash of creativity to the festivities. And if you aren’t well-versed in mushroom hunting, don’t worry – the guided hunts will ensure you leave with a bounty of morels!
Mark your calendars for May 3, and head to the Jordan Block, 100 Main Street, Ottawa, IL, for an unforgettable day of fun, learning, and identifying some of the world's most sought-after mushrooms!
Here’s a breakdown of the event schedule:
- 7:30 AM: Hunt and Morel Market sign-in
- 8 - 8:30 AM: Morel University (educational session)
- 8:45 AM: Buses depart for guided morel hunts
- 8 AM - 4 PM: Event duration
- 9 AM - 3 PM: Morel Market
- 8 AM - 3 PM: Vendor Market
- 9 AM - 11:30 AM: Guided Morel Hunt
- 12:30 PM: Awards ceremony
See you there, foragers! Happy hunting!
- Don't miss the spring adventure at the Midwest Morel Fest, a mushroom-themed event taking place in Ottawa, IL, on May 3, 2025, featuring guided hunts, educational sessions, mushroom markets, and more!
- In addition to the foraging event, the Midwest Morel Fest honors the late Tom Nauman, a key figure in the festival's foundation, through a vendor market and awards ceremony honoring his legacy.
- The annual Midwest Morel Fest also includes the Mini Morel Hunt Murals, adding a creative touch to the festivities.
- To ensure a successful foraging experience, the Midwest Morel Fest offers guided hunts where you'll learn the art of hunting for elusive morel mushrooms, with plenty of opportunities to sell yourfinds at the food-and-drink market.
