Parkland Community College Hosts Native Plant Festival and Sale to Promote Environmental Awareness

Parkland Community College is gearing up to host the much-anticipated Native Plant Festival and Sale on May 4, 2024, aiming to educate and engage the community in sustainable gardening and environmental conservation. The event, scheduled to run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the college’s W Building (Tony Noel Agricultural Building), is set to attract garden enthusiasts, environmentalists, and families alike.

Admission to the festival is free, and it offers a golden opportunity for attendees to purchase native plants suited to Illinois climates, participate in workshops, and engage with experts on creating pollinator-friendly gardens. The event’s primary goal is to provide resources and knowledge necessary for establishing pollinator gardens, thus supporting biodiversity and environmental health.

Leading environmental organizations such as Pollinator Partnership, Xerces Society, and the Illinois Natural History Survey will set up booths to educate visitors on various ecological topics, including wetland preservation and environmental restoration. The Master Naturalist/Gardener program will also be on-site to share insights into sustainable gardening practices.

The festival promises an interactive experience with various crafts and games designed to enlighten attendees about the wonders of nature. A series of workshops will cover diverse topics such as biodiversity, plant photography, and the significance of local flora like oak trees and prairies. Each workshop will be available twice during the day to ensure all interested attendees can participate.

Adding to the green shopping experience, local vendor the Wild Midwest will offer a selection of native plants ideal for various growing conditions, from sunny spots to moist soils. They will also feature eco-friendly products like rain barrels. Other environmentally-focused businesses such as RBKL Honey, Piper Pottery, and Berries and Flour Bakery will showcase their nature-inspired products, ranging from locally sourced honey to pottery and baked goods made from edible native plants.

For those looking to deepen their understanding of sustainable practices and embrace a greener lifestyle, the Native Plant Festival and Sale is an event not to be missed. Further details can be found on the festival’s official Facebook page and website, where updates and additional information are regularly posted.