Sustainable Resilient Longmont’s founders decided 10 years ago to create an event to coincide with Earth Day that would bring the community together to inspire hope in saving the planet. Longmont Earth Day has grown and continues to educate Longmont residents on the realities of climate crisis and how they can get involved locally to make a difference.
When the event began there was not another large community Earth Day event in the area, said Naomi Curland, board chair of SRL. The event includes a community clean-up event that takes place around Longmont.
“That’s a really fun, hands-on way to get out into the earth, pick stuff up and beautify a local park,” Curland said.
Over the years, the event has expanded to planting seeds or seed bombing to encourage native plant growth and help pollinators.
In addition to having an interactive component, Longmont Earth Day seeks to educate people on topics such as renewable agriculture, the reality of climate impacts and electrification. SRL brings in panel or individual speakers in environmental fields to share their knowledge, Curland said.
In recent years, the event has included a variety of booths that provide opportunities for locals to continue their involvement after the event. These booths include nonprofit organizations that are working to help the planet while others help educate those interested in making their homes more environmentally friendly.
“It’s about giving everyone an opportunity to join a cause that they care about, find what resonates with them and how they want to get involved in our local community on behalf of the planet,” Curland said.
SRL moved the event to Centennial Park and partnered with Timberline PK-8 School to make the event more accessible to all Longmont residents. The nonprofit encourages everyone to ride a bike, walk or use public transportation to get to the event.
The 10th Annual Longmont Earth Day Celebration will be held on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 233 E. Mountain View Ave. Its theme is “Planet vs. Plastic.” There will be a live performance by Doctor Noize, a raptor show, a community clean up project in Centennial Park, an all ages bike ride and a sustainable fashion show.
Patrons are encouraged to bring their old clothes for a clothing swap and collection. Clothing of all conditions will be accepted.
