Sustainotopia Schedule: Eat Up and Learn

Will Essensia's offerings be tastier than lionfish? Maybe!

This year's Sustainatopia, takes place April 19-25 throughout Miami. It is one of the largest events in the world for social, financial and environmental sustainability. Its founder, local John Rosser, said it is designed to educate and create global participation and collaboration for folks from all walks of life. (Translated: It's like a shot of Cuban coffee to those who have been too sleepy to notice that we're destroying our world and a celebration for those who have been on the bandwagon all along.])br />
Rosser came up with the concept three years ago (read more about him and the event's roots in this recent Forbes interview) and has made the event a massive celebration involving thousands of participants. He promises this year's event has lots to offer, especially for foodies who know that produce isn't grown on supermarket shelves:

Eat the Enemy
It's your chance to chow down on Lionfish, an unwanted predator in Caribbean waters.
Friday night, April 20th, 6 p.m., 15th Street Fisheries, Fort Lauderdale, $30

Sustainability Tour with Whole Foods, South Beach
Meet Jordan Wolfe, the in-store Green Mission Specialist, at Customer Service for inspiring tour of the South Beach store.
Friday and Saturday, April 20 and 21, 1 p.m., free

Shop at Downtown Harvest Market
Ride your bike down and check out information sessions and lunchtime demonstrations about bringing sustainability to our urban center; a section dedicated to the sale and care of potted herbs, vegetables, and fruits; and a drum circle at lunchtime.
Friday, April 20th, noon, Stephen P. Clark Center's Courtyard at 111 NW First St., free

South Miami Harvest Market
This is a good one for the kiddies, especially, as sessions geared toward children's activities and teaching the next generation appreciation for our Earth will be offered, along with a vegetable sculpture project comprised of fruits and vegetables that grow in abundance locally in the Greater Everglades bio-Region.
Saturday, April 21st, 10 a.m., 6130 Sunset Drive, South Miami, free

Live- Organic Farms Tour of South Florida
Tour some of South Florida's top sustainable farms and enjoy freshly picked and prepared foods paired with tropical fruit wines. A private bus will pick participants up at several central locations in Miami between noon and 1 p.m.
Saturday, April 21st, noon-6 p.m., $65

EarthFest
Meet a smattering of organic food vendors at this official city of Coral Gables event and enjoy eats fresh from their farms.
Sunday, April 22nd, noon-5 p.m., City Hall, free<

Earth Harvest Festival
The first celebration of Permaculture in South Florida.
Sunday, April 22nd, noon-6 p.m., Homestead Harvest Market at Verde Gardens, SW 280 Street and 127 Ave., free

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Organizers are calling it "an exploration of consciousness and food issues." Along with a presentation from Gene Bauer of Farm Sanctuary, expect discussions concerning the vegan lifestyle, animal rights, and grass-fed meats as an alternative. Vegan food will be served.
Sunday night, April 22nd, 6 p.m., FDR at the Delano, South Beach, $50

Essensia Dinner
You know Essensia is already all about the farm-fresh movement and its flavors, but on this night chef Julie Frans will prepare a special five-course menu incorporating premium seasonal, local and sustainable produce, grass-fed meats, and seafood. Plates will be paired with fine wines carefully selected from Essensia's one-of-a-kind sustainable wine list. Seats are limited to 50 guests and the meal will take place at the restaurant's poolside terrace amongst lush tropical vegetation. For reservations, please call 305-908-5490 by Tuesday, April 17th.
Tuesday, April 24th, 7 p.m., Essensia at the Palms Hotel, $95

Visit the site for more info about other key events, including a global beach cleanup; a Carnivalia celebration and parade on Lincoln Road; the premiere of University of Miami professor and filmmaker Sanjeev Chatterjee's One City; citywide parties; ecological tours; eco-fashion and design; art; lectures; and a worldwide Avatar summit.

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