After a successful first go-around to celebrate Earth Day, planners are excited to see what happens for round two.
The second annual Earth Day Celebration, which is free to the public, gets underway Saturday, April 22, beginning at 10 a.m. at Covered Bridge Park with a bevy of activities from the public to choose from, according to Jilian Reece, Carter County Community Advisory Board member that helps plan the event.
“Last year, we had this event as a celebration for our four community gardens spread throughout the county,” Reece said. “It went over so well that we’re expanding our program this year. We have one garden we’re working on near the United Way’s building and another at a location to be determined. We thought this event was a perfect way to highlight the community members that take advantage of the gardens and promote healthy living in the county and the city.”
Throughout the day, attendees have the chance to visit over 20 different vendors and different activity booths for children and adults alike. Delving into the topic of Earth Day, a plant swap will be held and children have the opportunity to receive a free plant thanks to a partnership with Niswonger Children’s Hospital and free crafts from the Imagination Library.
But another addition to this year’s event is a rally for the inaugural year of the Downtown Elizabethton Farmer’s Market. The market will start up May 23 on F Street in Elizabethton in the parking lot of First Christian Church and individuals have the opportunity to learn more about the market and how to have entertainment.
Other additions at this year’s celebration include a partnership with Carter County Proud that entails a cleanup of the Tweetsie Trail.
“We’re partnering with Carter County Proud this year for their Little Awareness Walk through the Tweetsie Trail,” Reece said. “People who want to participate are encouraged to meet at Lions Field at 10 a.m. and bring signs that encourage people not to litter. They’ve been walking the Trail, picking up litter, and will stop at Covered Bridge Park.”
The other addition is the Great Cloth Diaper Change event. Attendees are encouraged to bring extra cloth diapers to swap or sell and can participate in a diaper change at 11 a.m. at the park in hopes of breaking a world record.
“We’re excited to be partnering with the Great Cloth Diaper Change event,” Reece said.
Elizabethton Parks and Recreation Department has confirmed that musical entertainment is scheduled to perform at the celebration as well, according to Reece.
Vendor opportunities are also still available. For more information, contact Reece at (423) 342-8008 or visit the Earth Day Celebration! Event Facebook page online.