In April of every year communities across Canada celebrate Earth Day and mark their commitment to living more lightly on the planet.
On April 20, downtown Courtenay is joining the nationwide celebration with Earth Day Downtown – Backyard Farmers Unite!
This new celebration is part of downtown Courtenay's year-round events and partnerships that celebrate life in the Valley.
From 10 a.m. till 3 p.m., the corner of Fifth and England will turn into a celebration of back yard farming complete with seed and seedlings sales, compost sales, demos, community groups, music and kids crafts.
Whether our gardens are big or small, backyard farming is a great way to learn more about food production as a family, reduce the environmental impacts of shipping and enjoy tasty, organic, healthy food right out of our yards!
Vendors and community groups involved include Sugar Shack Seeds, Morrison Creek Alpacas, Merville Organics, Lush Valley, Lake Trail Neighbourhood Connections, Tree Eater Nursery and Farm, Elevate the Arts, Earth Art Studios and Strathcona-Sunrise Club with Skyrocket Compost sales with more participants confirming every day.
There are still vending spots available for sellers of seeds, seedlings, soil enhancements and plants, flowers, shrubs and trees. Community groups with a focus on food and food education, gardening, farming, eco-crafts and land use are all welcome to participate.
This is a great opportunity for local groups to raise awareness about their earth-friendly community projects. To sign up to vend at this inaugural Earth Day downtown event e-mail info@downtowncourtenay.com before April 12.
Local shops and restaurants are also joining in on the celebration offering fresh sheets and other local features to celebrate the bounty of the Valley.
'Beyond' the Kitchen Door will host chef Laura Agnew, owner of As You Like it Catering, and profiling Valley food producers thorough their day-long Meet Your Maker cooking demos (noon to 4).
Ride your bike downtown, stop by the museum or art gallery, pack a picnic for Simms Park or dine out at one of the great local cafés and restaurants.