Earth Day Event Draws Greener Crowd

Some beat the heat with cold treats or healthy snacks.

Adults enjoyed some relaxing entertainment near the U.N. Building exhibits. Local musicians also peformed.

In the Children's Area, kids learned how to make recycled paper at home.

Fuel-friendly vehicles were on display in the "Cleaner Car Concourse," including a truck that runs on water and a selection of scooters and motorized bicycles.

Other vendors were on hand to give information on ways to "green" one's home with energy efficient materials and other tips.

Visitors could purchase eco-friendly versions of many everyday items from vendors and exhibitors.

The law enforcement division of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service exhibited a collection of illegally hunted animals, and offered information on how to help prevent poaching.

Dottie Korn-Davis, a mixed media artist from San Diego, showed off some of her works. Each piece combines recycled items with elements of her background in paleontology and studio art.

Many local artists were on hand to show off their eco-friendly creations.

Outside of the parade, members of the Twelve Tribes, a communal living group from Valley Center, danced and played music in the shade. The group manages a 6-acre organic avocado farm.

A parade started in the morning and featured many exhibitors with a variety of environmental mantras, and costumes, to share.

Bob Silvern represented the Animal Protection and Rescue League and handed out pamphlets about the vegan lifestyle. "The environment is one of the most important reasons to be vegan," he said.

Many visitors brought their pets to the event.

Alternative methods of transportation to the event were encouraged. The San Diego County Bicycle Coalition offered free, guarded valet bike parking.

The park was in full bloom and the sun shone all day, with temperatures reaching into the high 80's.

Signs greeting visitors to the EarthFair 2009 festivities posted along the Cabrillo Bridge.

EarthFair 2009 took place in Balboa Park on April 19, 2009.