The DeKalb County Earth Fest returned to Founders Memorial Library on Saturday, April 11, bringing more than 1,100 visitors together to learn about sustainability and environmental issues.
Organized by DeCarbon DeKalb, a nonprofit that promotes sustainable living through inclusive and engaging programs, Earth Fest reflects growing community interest in environmental issues and solutions. Attendance increased by 70% compared with last year.
This year’s theme, “Which climate action matters most? What matters most to me?,” focused on personal and local ways to make a positive change.
Highlights of the festival included:
- Hands-on gardening and hydroponics workshops with NIU Edible Campus.
- A native plant restoration session led by Sag Moraine Native Plant Community.
- Virtual reality and interactive science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) exhibits, including the NIU Huskie Hail Hunter extreme weather research truck.
- Sessions led by NIU STEAM staff on bringing sustainability programs into classrooms, nonprofits and businesses.
- A keynote address from the Post-Landfill Action Network.
During the event, visitors had opportunities to learn about environmental issues through hands-on activities, exhibits and presentations. The range of programs also gave attendees practical ways to explore sustainability in their homes, schools and communities.
“Earth Fest continues to grow because people are hungry for climate conversations that feel local, doable and hopeful,” said Kendra Holton Clemens, co-founder of DeCarbon DeKalb. “This event shows that change is not only possible, it’s already happening right here at home.”
Looking ahead, plans for next year’s event location are still being determined. However, this year’s strong attendance highlights the library’s role as a place where NIU and the DeKalb community can come together to learn, share ideas and take part in programs that support a more sustainable future.
