One of Fredericksburg’s most popular parks will transform into an eco-celebration zone on Saturday, April 26, as the city hosts its annual Earth Day Festival at Old Mill Park.
Now in its 20th year, the festival draws thousands of attendees and celebrates environmental awareness through hands-on activities, live entertainment, and eco-friendly vendors.
“The Earth Day Festival is really all about helping the community get excited about our planet and excited about taking care of it,” said Callie Brown, Superintendent of Recreation for Fredericksburg Parks, Recreation & Events.
The event runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is expected to draw between 2,000 and 5,000 people — and potentially more if the weather holds out. The largest turnout to date reached nearly 8,000 attendees.
A Park Fit for the Planet
Old Mill Park, located along the Rappahannock River and the Heritage Trail, is the city’s most-used green space. Its open fields, tree cover, and riverfront access make it a perfect venue for the festival.
“This is a really great location,” said Brown. “It’s a scenic and central space that’s easy to access, especially for those who want to walk or bike in.”
Festival organizers encourage attendees to use alternative transportation such as walking, biking, or carpooling. There is no public parking on-site except for those with handicap permits. Shuttle service will be available from nearby satellite parking lots.
What to Expect
- The day will be packed with activities for all ages:
- Live music throughout the event.
- Earth Quest Raptor Show at 1 p.m., featuring live birds of prey.
- Interactive vendor booths promoting sustainability and education.
- Rock climbing wall and tree climbing challenges.
- Paddling pool, presented by the Virginia Outdoor Center, where attendees can try kayaking and canoeing in a controlled environment.
- And perhaps the most anticipated: Goat yoga and a live demonstration of how goats will be used to mow grass at the park.
“We’re starting a new initiative at Old Mill where they’re gonna be bringing in goats to mow some of the grasses,” said Brown. “The goats will be on site, and there will even be baby goats doing goat yoga.”
Months in the Making
Planning for the Earth Day Festival begins as early as November. Brown leads a team that organizes vendor applications, logistics, entertainment, sponsorships, and promotions.
“Our staff divides into teams — attractions, sponsorship, parking — and we meet regularly to bring it all together,” said Courtney Merzowski, Superintendent of Special Events. This will be Merzowski’s first Earth Day Festival in her new role.
All vendors are required to include interactive elements at their booths, such as educational displays, hands-on activities, or demonstrations.
“We don’t want people to just come and buy things. We want them to engage with Earth Day themes and learn something new,” Brown said.
A detailed schedule and shuttle information will be posted online ahead of the event. Visitors are encouraged to check the site before attending.
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