Earth Daze: Sustainable Fiesta in Vallejo

Environmental advocates and curious residents flocked to Virginia Street for the second annual “Earth Daze” event. Cohosted by the City of Vallejo and event planning organization the Ever Wonder, the family-oriented festival was aimed at honoring Earth Day and all that it stands for.

The event's motto, "Our power, our planet," was merely an indicator of the objectives for the day.

The schedule included healing sound baths conducted by mindfulness instructor Shanience Thomas, as well as outdoor yoga sessions hosted by Vallejo’s own Neighborhood Plant Dealer. A communal drumming circle added to the festivities. The sustainable living celebration reached new heights with complimentary massages, custom T-shirt printing services, haircut stations, food trucks offering locally sourced cuisine, and eco-conscious merchants present at the event.

Like typical downtown Vallejo events, the atmosphere remained vibrant — thanks to the energetic tunes spun by DJ Big Vince and MC Mr. Chubs from the Free Music Collective.

While bobbing his head to the rhythmic tunes of the interactive drum circle, Vallejo resident Damion Barrett enthusiastically joined in.

"Events such as these are truly wonderful because they provide an excellent opportunity to showcase and emphasize the beauty of our city," stated Barrett.

Jeni Swerdlow from "Drummm Rhythmic Events" in Berkeley organized an event where people of various age groups came together to create joyful ensemble music through drumming.

"Pay attention to the rhythm and think about what it signifies," Swerdlow posed to her group of participating drummers. "What does this rhythm require from you?" People who were captivated by the tunes joined in the dance, gently moved back and forth, and grinned as they took in both the vibrant visuals and lively melodies coming from the engaging circle.

To help participants experience the variety of vendors and local enterprises along the Virginia Street block, Ever Wonder’s creator Jacqueline Wonder and her crew launched a comprehensive passport program. They motivated locals by offering a complimentary T-shirt crafted by nearby artist Christian Alberto from Northstar Studios.

The initial 50 inhabitants got complimentary eco-friendly "passport" water bottles and were prompted to pick up the Earth Day map and discover local enterprises and various sustainable sellers around town. The passport collaborators comprised Northstar Studios, My First Couch, Integritea, the Exchange, Provisions, as well as the Neighborhood Plant Dealer.

As soon as residents took part in the events or gained more knowledge about the local resources associated with the event, they were awarded a sticker. Once they had collected four stickers, they could claim one of the exclusive Earth Daze T-shirts.

Providing complimentary haircut services to the community was Chop, a local resident of Vallejo and a volunteer barber from Formulation Barber Shop.

For me, these gatherings are exciting regardless of their connection to Earth Day. It feels great to engage with my local community and contribute something positive," stated the barber. "It's refreshing to witness folks enjoying outdoor spaces and experience the Vallejo that often gets overlooked.

In comparison to last year's gathering, Ever Wonder's organizer believed that this year's event saw greater participation and success. The increase in vendors allowed for more local resources to connect with and educate the community members effectively.