Photos by Timm DeSalis

Bend’s annual environmental exposition is an affair for the entire family, complete with costumed main street parade.

Think of it as a mini Mardi Gras of sorts, minus the booze, beads, and debauchery. A parade of animals and colorful costumes brightens downtown Bend’s streets on Saturday, April 22. Organized by The Environmental Center of Bend, the parade kicks off a day-long celebration in honor of Earth Day. The festive Procession of Species parade travels through downtown Bend, ending with a fair at The Environmental Center of Bend on Kansas Avenue. Interactive displays, local art, food and drinks, live music and activities for people of all ages—all committed to Zero Waste practices—will bring excitement and fun mixed with a message of civic and social responsibility. For inspiration and help with costumes, The Environmental Center will host workshops leading up to the event, now in its 28th year. Participants can get inspiration and access to recycled and down-cycled materials to help create costumes for the parade. envirocenter.org 

Photos  by Carol Sternkopf

The Forest Guardian will be premiering in the Earth Day Parade with The River Guardian this year. The parade starts at 11:30am downtown. People who want to join the procession are asked to start to gather at 11am. Envirocenter.org/programs/community/earth-day-fair/