The Midwest Bonsai Society's goal is the promotion of bonsai in general, and specifically the cultivation of a growing public awareness of bonsai as a living art.

To further this goal, the Society holds monthly meetings at 7:30pm on the first Monday of the month at the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe, IL. Prior to each meeting on most months there is a Bonsai 101 course where beginner bonsai topics are discussed. The Society also hosts two shows annually, one in May and one in August; these shows are some of the top shows in the nation. Centered around the bonsai courtyards at the Chicago Botanic Garden, they include demonstrations, workshops, national vendors, a banquet and individual member trees on display.