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7th Annual
CARROTS & COCKTAILS
PRESENTED BY FERRARA
Experience an unforgettable evening at the heart of our work, set on a farm unlike anywhere else in the city.
Spend a summer evening on a thriving urban farm where community comes together to celebrate growth and impact.
Carrots & Cocktails is Urban Autism Solutions’ signature event at Growing Solutions Farm, bringing people together in the very place where young adults with autism build job skills, confidence, and a path toward greater independence.
THIS YEAR'S LINEUP
New to Carrots & Cocktails:
Live Jazz Music from the Joe Policastro Trio
We’re excited to feature live jazz from the Joe Policastro Trio, a Chicago-based group known for their dynamic, engaging performances.
Led by bassist Joe Policastro, the trio has released multiple albums, performed at festivals across the U.S. and Canada, and even played for President Barack Obama.
While their sound is rooted in jazz, they draw from a wide range of styles – making it the kind of music you can enjoy whether you’re a jazz fan or simply there for a great night out.
Signature Event Highlights
Light Bites and Cocktails
This year’s menu features Asian- and Mediterranean-inspired bites, highlighting seasonal produce from the farm.
Apologue Liqueurs is back with their popular handcrafted cocktails, and this year they're featuring their Carrot Liqueur as part of the lineup. Additional beverages are also available.
Get Involved on the Farm
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Enter the raffle for a chance to win a collection of Chicago experiences. Don't miss our online raffle special.
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Browse the on-site farm stand, stocked with seasonal produce and one-of-a-kind UAS merchandise – credit cards and cash accepted.
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Join a guided farm tour led by UAS participants and see the impact of your support firsthand.
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Connect and enjoy time with friends and family members and celebrate the work happening here.
2026 Carrots & Cocktails Raffle Donors
We're continuing to add to an incredible lineup of Chicago experiences and offerings.
ONLINE RAFFLE BONUS
Buy 5 Tickets, Get 1 Free
The raffle is a signature part of Carrots & Cocktails, featuring an exciting mix of Chicago-centered experiences and offerings generously donated by community businesses and partners. Each raffle entry extends the impact of the evening, with proceeds supporting our programs.
This year, we’re offering a special online opportunity: Buy your raffle tickets in advance and get one complimentary ticket when you purchase five ($50 online; $10 per ticket).
MADE POSSIBLE THROUGH SUPPORT FROM OUR SPONSORS
HARVEST SPONSOR
Ferrara Candy Company has been an integral partner to Urban Autism Solutions — supporting our work through both direct engagement and financial investment. Their involvement reflects a hands-on commitment to building pathways to greater independence.
BLOOM SPONSOR
Helping grow the reach and impact of programs that build critical skills for greater independence.
SEED SPONSORS
Providing the foundation that makes early opportunities for growth and skill-building possible.
GARDEN TABLE SPONSORS
• Grace Cheng • Guest House • Joyce McCarthy
• Salma Shawwaf • Erica & Jack Veugeler
• Schroeder & Schroeder Construction • Barbara Zawacki
Meet Our Food & Beverage Donors
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Event Details
Date: June 18, 2026
Time: 5:30 – 7:30 PM
Location: 2200 W Campbell Park Dr.
(South of the intersection of Harrison and Leavitt)
Parking
Free parking is available in the Red Cross parking lot adjacent to the farm on the north side (right side on map). Look for signs that designate this area. There is also free parking on surrounding streets.
Entrance & Drop-off
Please use the only available entrance on Campbell Park Drive (left side on map). From the parking lot, you’ll walk around the east perimeter of the farm fence to reach the front entrance, where registration is located.
Need to drop someone off? Feel free to pull up to the front entrance before parking.
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What to Wear
We suggest polished casual – comfortable, put-together, and appropriate for an outdoor gala event. The evening takes place on grass and mulch, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
This event is rain or shine, so please plan accordingly.