Love Our Earth Festival draws enthusiastic participants

This year’s Love Our Earth Festival was held at Cesar Chavez Ravenswood Middle School in East Palo Alto on Saturday, drawing nearly 400 community members for an afternoon of environmental celebration, education, and fun.

The event kicked off with a welcome from the mayors of East Palo Alto and Menlo Park, followed by a community tree planting — a fitting start to a day centered on caring for the planet. More than 50 local vendors, nonprofit organizations, and public agencies filled the school campus with interactive exhibits and activities for all ages.

Water conservation was a highlight throughout the afternoon. EarthCapades entertained the crowd on stilts and with their “H2O Show,” blending magic, comedy, and juggling to explore the wonders of water. The theme continued with Acterra’s WaterPalooza, offering hands-on ways for attendees to learn about the importance of protecting this precious resource.

Families with young children gathered for storytime sessions hosted by San Mateo County Library and Menlo Park Library, while a plant-based market offered delicious vegan food options from local vendors. Attendees took part in nature-inspired crafts, Climate Carnival games, and screen printed their own shirts on a range of colorful upcycled t’s.

The festival was organized by the cities of East Palo Alto and Menlo Park, in partnership with 350 Silicon Valley, Acterra, Menlo Spark, Peninsula Clean Energy, and the Ravenswood City School District.

Photos by Alfred Leung, ProBonoPhoto.org