Summer is coming and with it comes green leaves, green veggies, and, of course, the Washington Borough Green Team, in conjunction with the Washington Business Improvement District, the Annual Green Fest! 

The official kickoff for the borough’s award-winning farmers’ market, Green Fest, slated for Saturday, June 15, has become a not-to-miss event in its own right, offering a plethora of “Green” activities for family members of all ages, endless shopping and live music. The festival takes place in and around the Pocket Park at 44 E. Washington Ave. (Route 57). It will run 10 a.m.-2 p.m.  

The Green Team, a dedicated group of area residents, “strives to raise awareness regarding environmental concerns and how consumers can reduce their impact on the earth by selecting sustainable, eco-friendly products and services, reducing energy consumption, conserving water, and limiting their dependence on fossil fuels.” 

Activities at the festival are meant to further these goals. Among the participating groups offering interactive children’s activities are Karen Nash Memorial Butterfly Garden, Dove Environmental Education, and Musconetcong Watershed Association. For the adults, join Rossi Chevrolet Buick GMC and Smith Ford for test drives of green vehicles. Dispose of materials the safe and green way by bringing sensitive documents for shredding ($5 per banker’s box) and old and expired medications for Project Medicine Drop. 

An array of informational displays from borough and regional environmental groups will provide information about our natural surroundings and how to keep them healthy. Shopping opportunities include upcyclers and green product vendors. 

Maribyrd, Clouds in my Coffee, and The Noble Brothers will provide musical accompaniment throughout the day. 

“It’s a really great day to focus on our environment,” said Suzi Marr, an event organizer. “We try to make it fun, educational and entertaining for all ages.”   

In addition to Green Fest-specific activities, the 2019 Farmers’ Market participants will also be on hand, celebrating the season launch. Running Saturdays through October, the market features farmers with local produce, upcyclers and craft vendors, plus teas, flowers and more.  

The Green Fest is sponsored by Hackettstown Medical Center, Hunterdon Healthcare, WXPN, WRNJ, and Washington Borough Clean Communities. For more information, please visit washingtonbid.org. 

Photo: Diana Dove releases butterflies at last year’s GreenFest. Photo by Cathy Miller