Reduce, reuse and recycle, the “three Rs” to help the planet, will be front and center at La Montañita Co-op’s annual Earthfest celebration. Held in conjunction with Earth Day events around the globe, the Co-op’s Earthfest has continued the tradition of celebrating the Earth with Albuquerque’s local community for 33 years.
The event honors achievements of the environmental movement and raises awareness of the need to protect Earth’s natural resources for future generations.
The event had grown over the years from six tables to three blocks of tents with entertainment and vendors galore prior to the pandemic. Last year, the event was an intimate gathering in front of the Co-op’s Nob Hill location.
The more intimate theme is carried through again at Earthfest 2024, on Sunday, April 21 from 10am-4pm. The U-shaped parking in front of the Co-op in Nob Hill will be closed to traffic and filled with 35 vendors under tents.
“The community event focus is on what are some of the small changes we can make as individuals to help support living more sustainably on our planet,” Lea Quale, the Co-op’s marketing and membership engagement director tells The Paper. “It is also about education around the New Mexico organizations that are really doing amazing work in our community. At least a third of the spaces are dedicated to community organizers.”
The event will feature local vendors, music and prizes. A sound bath meditation session by Peaceful Stillness opens Earthfest at 10am, followed by DJ Flo Fader from 11 to 4pm.
Inside the Co-op will be food samples throughout the store. The deli will have grab-and-go items and sandwich specials. Scalo—a restaurant near the Co-op—will offer a brunch special.
Attendees of the celebration can stock up on local, organic plant starts and seeds. Local artisans will also be on site, selling a variety of paintings, hand-crafted jewelry, pottery and sculptures.
“One of our team members is from Nigeria, has his own company, and will have Nigerian handcrafted clothing. We also will have hand-painted silk,” Quale says.
Attendees will also have an opportunity to engage with local organizations and environmental advocacy groups about sustainable living and community issues. Booths will include the Albuquerque Center for Peace and Justice, Albuquerque Folk Festival, Cañoncito Seed Bank, La Montañita Board of Directors, League of Women Voters, NM Flower Collective, NM Food and Water Watch, Pollinators in the Neighborhood, Presbyterian Community Health, Sañtuario de Karuna and Veterans for Peace.
“We’re excited to offer a community gathering space, particularly right outside of our flagship location,” Quale said. “It’s just really nice to bring the community together and provide an outlet for people to come out and connect.”
La Montañita EarthFest 2024
lamontanita.coop/earthfest
April 21, 10am-4pm
La Montañita Co-op
3500 Central Ave. SE