Earth Day Fair set for April 22

Nicolet College, in partnership with the Northwoods Community Garden, ArtStart, and WXPR, will host the 12th annual Earth Day Fair on Monday, April 22 from 3-7 p.m. at the Lakeside Center Commons on the Nicolet College campus.

This year’s theme, “Our Plastic Planet,” focuses on alternatives to plastic, the importance of recycling, and ideas for reusing plastic, according to a press release announcing the event. Attendees can enjoy food and beverages, speakers, family activities, vendors, live music and more, all while learning about sustainability initiatives in the Northwoods.

“The Fair is a wonderful chance to learn about ways we can all make a positive difference in the world,” said Northwood Community Garden manager Mike Haasl. “You will meet engaging people, see demonstrations, enjoy good food, learn new things, and help support the Northwoods Community Garden’s mission to connect with the community.”

 The Earth Day Fair aims at celebrating and promoting Northwoods businesses, organizations and individuals who dedicate all or part of their endeavors to sustainability-oriented goods, services, and practices. Although entry to the Earth Day Fair is free of charge, several local vendors will be in attendance to share information, resources, and merchandise. A silent auction will also take place.

Food and beverages from Lola’s Lunchbox, Tilly’s, Roots Juice, and Hodag Pete’s Coffee will also be available for purchase. Music from the Earth Day Band will be featured for their once-a-year performance exclusively for the annual event, in addition to a Native American Drum Circle that will perform in the Nicolet College Theatre.

Attendees can also view a legacy horse logging demonstration and listen to Meleesa Johnson from Wisconsin’s Green Fire speak on conserving natural resources. A basic gardening question-and-answer session will also be featured, in addition to a seed swap.

Fiber art activities will also be featured. Old School Arts and Learning Center will lead a rag rug weaving activity, Autumn Larch Farms will offer a spinning demonstration, and the Northern Pines Fibershed will feature a flax demonstration.

In addition, Three Lakes Elementary School will feature an exhibition of their recycled art plus Shakti artist and designer Shelley Novotny will showcase her sustainable, earth-inspired mixed media and wearable art. 

Family activities, including a mushroom game for kids with EmilyMae King.

For more information on the Earth Day Fair, visit https://northwoodscommunitygarden.com.