Events

http://www.oak-park.us/village-services/refuse-recycling/earth-fest

The Village of Oak Park’s fifth annual celebration of green living — Earth Fest — is scheduled for 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Sat., April 26, in the LEED Gold-certified Public Works Center, 201 South Blvd.

This year’s event will focus on green block parties — sure to be popular in Oak Park’s neighborhoods after a particularly brutal winter. Visitors can learn more about how to go green during their outdoor summer festivities.

“It’s important for kids and families to have fun outdoors in the summer, and block parties are a great chance to implement eco-friendly practices,” said Maria Onesto Moran, an Earth Fest organizer. “We hope that everyone who attends this year’s event comes away with a few new ideas to make their annual street parties a little more sustainable.”

In addition, Earth Fest organizers have invited several food truck vendors to the event. The trucks will park on South Boulevard, just outside the Public Works Center, and serve up tasty snacks throughout the event.

As in years past, dozens of Earth Fest vendors will provide plenty of hands-on activities, free samples and information for families. Some of the day’s scheduled highlights include:

Free composting and organic gardening consultations
Outdoor kids’ activities (weather permitting)
Energy efficiency tutorials
Car sharing information
Tips on eco-friendly landscaping
Bike registration with Oak Park Police

Back by popular demand, Earth Fest once again will feature Recycle Alley — an on-site opportunity for residents to bring items that aren’t part of the regular blue bin recycling program. Items to be recycled include glasses, hearing aids, CFL light bulbs, cell phones, rechargeable batteries and wine corks.

For more information on Earth Fest 2014, call 708.660.1443 or e-mail [email protected]. Information also is posted online at www.oak-park.us/earthfest.