Arlington’s Annual Ecofest Event Offers Free Trees, Ecofriendly Exhibitors and Education

By Susan Schrock

Posted on October 12, 2017, October 12, 2017

Whether you're interested in the latest "green" products and services or you just enjoy nature and the outdoors, mark your calendar now for the City of Arlington's 9th annual EcoFest on October 21.

This free eco-friendly festival aims to raise environmental awareness while providing fun for the whole family. Activities include tree and mulch giveaways, demonstrations, vendor booths, children's activities and educational presentations as well as photos with the Parks and Recreation Department's green-friendly super hero, EcoMan. EcoFest is set for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Founders Plaza, located at 100 W. Abram Street across from Arlington City Hall.

Abram Street between West and Center streets and Oak Street between Abram and South streets will be closed between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. for the festival.

The Arlington Parks and Recreation Department has invited local businesses, master gardeners and other experts in to showcase their green products and practical do-it-yourself solutions for home improvement and maintenance as well as gardening and landscaping. Demonstrations include container gardening, lawn and garden irrigation, composting basics, going organic and much more.

"We want everyone to come downtown and have a great time at EcoFest. You can learn how to help the environment, conserve water and energy, save money for your family and help make The American Dream City an even better place to live," said Wendy Pappas, Urban Forest and Land Manager.

The Parks and Recreation Department is also set to give away 750 trees and 1,000 bags of mulch at this year's festival. Items will be given away on a first-come, first-serve basis, with a limit of two trees and two bags of mulch per household.

"Strategically planting trees around your home can provide so many benefits, such as reducing energy costs and storm water runoff, creating an inviting habitat for birds and wildlife and improving the look and value of your property," Pappas said.

EcoFest also offers something for the littlest of nature lovers. Children's activities include bounce houses, face painting, crafts and presentations featuring birds of prey and other critters.

Children can also practice safely riding bicycles at Bike Safety Town. Boy Scouts of America will provide instructions on proper signaling, yielding and starting from a full stop. Participants are invited to bring their own bicycles and helmets and some bikes and helmets will be available for use in limited supply.