ELKHART, Ind. -- Elkhart's 29th annual EnviroFest was held Friday evening at Island Park, with free admission offered to the public for the first time.
According to the event's environmental projects manager, Annie Klehfoth, radio station WVPE and other community sponsors helped cover vendor costs this year, making the shift to free admission possible. She said free admission had long been a personal and organizational goal, noting the event was originally community-supported through donations and sponsorships before shifting toward more city funding in recent years, while continuing to receive community backing.
She noted this year's crowd included a number of city employees visiting the festival, alongside the regular mix of families and returning longtime attendees. She described the event as a chance for smaller local organizations — ones that may not otherwise get much public visibility — to connect with the community and spread awareness of their work.
Attendees explored a rock-climbing wall, along with vendor booths covering food, the parks department, and nature preserve organizations, plus an educational presentation station near the entrance. Kayaking on the Elkhart River drew interest from older kids and adults. The manager pointed to visitors learning about low-maintenance native plant gardening — including options that need less watering while still attracting butterflies and hummingbirds — as an example of the kind of practical takeaway the festival aims to offer. Live music, food, and family activities rounded out the evening as attendees enjoyed the weather while learning about and supporting local environmental causes.