By Jack Reinhard | Facebook: @JohnJackReinhard

Everything was green this past sunny Saturday morning as the Washington Business Improvement District (Washington BID) hosted its fifth annual Green Fest to kick off the summer farmers’ market in downtown Washington, NJ.

It was not just limited to fresh produce. There were also a wide variety of recycled goods available for purchase to make a point. “The goal was to bring awareness to our community about sustainable living options and about recycling and repurposing to reduce our collective footprints,” said Washington BID Green Team member Suzi Marr.

Visitors enjoyed live music, particularly from one percussionist by the stage name of Dende, who combines blends of music from Africa and Brazil. One person’s junk is another man’s treasure, particularly in Dende’s case. All of his instruments are made out of broken items that are found in the trash or street.

As the sound of Dende’s music soared through the streets of Washington, children enjoyed taking part in craft activities and frequent butterfly releases.

Washington Business Improvement District Executive Director John Monteverde noted that there are a variety of other upcoming events. “We have a couple of unique events folded into the farmers’ market. We’re going to have a senior discount day, we’ve got stuff for kids and we’re going to have entertainment every week. So it’s not just the farmers’ market, people can come down to Washington Borough and enjoy themselves on a Saturday,” he said.