In April of every year communities across Canada celebrate Earth Day and mark their commitment to living more lightly on the planet. On Saturday April 20th Downtown Courtenay is joining the nation-wide 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 till 3 pm the corner of 5th 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 email info@downtowncourtenay.combefore 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 be hosting Chef Laura Agnew owner of As You Like it Catering and profiling Valley food producers thorough their day-long “Meet Your Maker” cooking demos (12-4 pm). Stay tuned for details about the featured foods!
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 cafes and restaurants. Downtown Courtenay is a delightful place to spend a spring afternoon with friends and family!