The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire announced on Apr. 1 a series of events throughout April to celebrate Earth Month, culminating in the first-ever Eau Claire Earth Fest at the Sonnentag Event Center. The activities are organized by the Student Office of Sustainability and other campus groups, with support from local organizations and sponsors.
The month-long schedule aims to encourage students and community members to engage with sustainability efforts, connect with nature, and learn about environmental stewardship. Lauren Jordahl, director of the Student Office of Sustainability, said, “We believe that Earth Month is a great time to demonstrate the importance of coming together as a community to support our planet. It’s something that should be celebrated more than just one day or one month of the year.”
Events include ecotherapy sessions such as outdoor speakers, greenhouse tours, bike rides, cleanup days, plant painting activities, yoga sessions, and more. Madi Shafman from the Student Senate said these programs are designed to help students relax before finals: “We want to provide some chances to de-stress just as the end of the semester rolls around.”
Earth Fest 2026 will take place on Saturday, April 18 at Sonnentag Event Center. The event is free for students and community members and features over 40 vendors offering sustainable products or information in areas like lawn care and renewable energy. Workshops will address topics such as climate change and biodiversity; additional highlights include a clothing swap, repair fair hosted by McIntyre Library’s Makerspace, bike collection for Bikeshare programs, field trips focused on sustainability initiatives in the area, and a student research poster contest awarding $1,500 for best entry.
Lily Strehlow, campus sustainability coordinator at UW-Eau Claire who led event planning efforts alongside students from various disciplines said: “We are expecting over 1,000 locals to celebrate Earth Month at this first-ever Eau Claire Earth Fest… We all have a role to play in making this world better for future generations… Eau Claire Earth Fest is the perfect place to get started or recommit to sustainable action.”
Student Emma Herfel emphasized opportunities for volunteering: “In addition to participating student organizations,” she said,“this big event is also an excellent opportunity for students to complete their community-engaged learning requirement through these volunteer hours.”
According to its official website, UW-Eau Claire supports an active Blugold Marching Band recognized throughout the Midwest; it contributes significantly through collaborations benefiting Wisconsin’s culture and economy; its scenic campus includes facilities shared with Mayo Clinic Health System; it has received national recognition for quality education practices including sustainability; it partners with major health systems like Mayo Clinic Health System and Marshfield Clinic; it emphasizes critical-thinking skills while preparing students for career-focused opportunities.
