The City of La Mesa recently hosted their sixth annual Earth Day Fair at MacArthur Park, located at 4900 Memorial Drive.
City of La Mesa Communications Manager Grecia Aguilar shared that attendees could expect “Hands-on fun for everyone including educational materials and resources on recycling, energy efficiency, water conservation, mobility and transportation and other sustainable practices.”
Additionally, a bicycle skills course, kids’ zone with educational and sustainable hands-on activities, an astro-jump and bungee run inflatable, food trucks, a DJ, take home activities, and more were on the list of options for the day.
In an effort to revive the Sustain La Mesa Environmental Festival held at Harry Griffen Park from 2008 – 2015, the La Mesa Park & Recreation Foundation began the Earth Day Fair in 2019. Doing so has cultivated a “fresh energy and purpose to honor our planet’s beauty and promote sustainability,” Aguilar said.
La Mesa has been recognized as a Tree City for over 45 years, according to non-profit reforestation and urban forestry organization Arbor Day Foundation.
“This designation emphasizes our commitment to environmental sustainability and highlights the importance of protecting our planet for future generations,” said Mayor Mark Arapostathis. “Through various initiatives and partnerships, the City prioritizes environmental protection and awareness by promoting sustainable practices, implementing green infrastructure projects, fostering community engagement and educating our residents about the significance of environmental conservation.”
For Executive Director of La Mesa Parks and Recreation Foundation Misty Thompson, Earth Day celebrations are akin to a birthday party for our planet.
“From choosing eco-friendly decorations to organizing fun activities that promote sustainability, every detail of the event is like a special gift we give back to our planet,” Thompson explained. “Just imagine our Mother Earth wearing a party hat and enjoying all our efforts we put into making the day special for her.”
Thompson detailed that planning and coordinating with partners, vendors, volunteers, contractors and other personnel all went into organizing the event. Additionally, they had to secure permits; choose a time, day and venue, curate engaging and educational activities, create marketing and promotional measures, find sponsors and manage all logistics.
“Community events raise awareness and help educate residents on environmental issues, inspiring them to take action and make sustainable choices in their daily lives,” Thompson went on to say. “With many activities geared toward children, we educate and inspire them at a young age. Promoting environmental protection can lead to cleaner air, water and green spaces which contributes to improved health and well-being and a better quality of life for residents.”
Photo courtesy of Misty Thompson
