by Ari Roth
Now entering its 9th year, Greenfest Philly is a treat for both music fans and environmentalists. In 2005, the Clean Air Council began hosting this free festival in Headhouse Square, bringing together great bands, delicious food, workshops and vendors focused on sustainability, renewability and environmental health. Always practicing what they preach, the festival itself will be powered by solar power generators, with an emphasis on composting and recycling the trash generated by the event.
Greenfest’s musical lineup features a number of local legends, including Ron Gallo (of the band Toy Soldiers), emo-tinged acoustic singer-songwriter No Stranger, Pine Barons (who recently rocked the 2nd Street Festival), and the hometown Balkan brass band, the West Philadelphia Orchestra. On the alimentary side, Greenfest boasts its very own beer garden, featuring sustainably brewed beer by the Victory Brewing Company, and even a ping pong table. Food trucks will abound, including Vendy Awards vets Local 215 and Philly staples Little Baby’s Ice Cream, Farm Truck, Kung Fu Hoagies, SoomFoods and Lil’ Pop Shop.
There will be discussions and lectures on environmental politics and current events throughout the day, and those with some cash to spare can shop for all sorts of products, all produced using sustainable or recyclable methods, including crafts, jewelry, soaps and even dog toys. It’s going to be a beautiful, hot summer day, so if you get tired, be sure to stop off at the rest and recharge station, featuring refreshments, comfy chairs and massages courtesy of the Eviama Life Green Spa and Boutique.
Greenfest Philly will take place next Sunday, September 7th. The festival grounds are in Headhouse Row, on 2nd St. between South St. and Pine St. in the Society Hill district. The festivities will run from 10 AM through to 4 PM in the afternoon. Once again, entry is free, and the event is family friendly.
