Albuquerque to host first statewide Earth Day Festival

Mar. 25—The city of Albuquerque and other environmentally friendly groups will be organizing the state's first Earth Day Festival on April 21.

"Our world needs change. That's where you come in as an individual. You yield real power and influence as a consumer, a voter and a member of a community that can unite for change," said Art Gardenswartz, the Earth Day Festival NM founder. "Don't underestimate your power. With others around the world, we can create a movement that is inclusive and impactful."

This local event has a theme of "Cut Costs and Carbon with Electrification," which will promote ways New Mexicans can make a difference in reducing their negative impact on the planet. Attendees will also learn how to access $500 to $20,000 in tax rebates and savings on utility bills.

The event will feature a variety of informational booths, a series of presentations, a children's activity center and a poetry and art contest with cash prizes.

"We are actively working to make Albuquerque a resilient, welcoming place for families for many generations to come," said Mayor Tim Keller. "We've made big strides in sustainability, renewable energy and equity, and we look forward to hosting this event to help even more folks get educated about how they can make a difference."

For the month of March, tickets will be free for anyone who gets one online. Starting April 1, the tickets will increase to $5, and children 12 and under will be free.

Embracing the world theme of "Planet vs. Plastics," the event will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, April 21, at the Sid Cutter Pilots' Pavilion at Balloon Fiesta Park, 4900 Balloon Fiesta Parkway NE.

The International Earth Day 2024 theme focuses on spreading awareness about plastic use, and there will be a petition at Earth Day events demanding a 60% reduction in plastic production by 2040.

For more information and to get tickets, go to earthdayfestivalnm.com.