Events

Eco-minded Philadelphians were graced with a picture-perfect day yesterday for GreenFest. The historic Headhouse Square was lined with rows of green businesses and non-profit organizations. It was refreshing to look around and see hundreds of like-minded people gathered in one place. Though we're constantly interacting with so many of Philadelphia's eco- activists and green companies, it's always revitalizing to chat in person. For us, much of the day was focused on discussing the Plastic Bag Ban.

This September 15th the Camden waterfront is the site of the Philadelphia Red Bull Flugtag competition. Red Bull Flugtag challenges teams of everyday people to build human-powered flying machines and pilot them off a 30-foot high deck in hopes of achieving flight! Flugtag means "flying day" in German, but typically these crafts simply splash into the waters below. But that doesn't make the event any less fun. Teams are judged not only on their flight's distance, but creativity and showmanship as well. One of the team's participating this year is a group of Rowan University students who are members of the university's environmental club. They recognized the opportunity to create an "aircraft" using upcycled materials. I spoke with team captain, Brooke Golden, to get the scoop on the team's Flugtag initiative and her team - The Filthy English Kuh-Knights.

  Do you have plans for September 9th, friends? Save the spot on your calendar and come by to say to us too, at 7th Annual Greenfest Philly! And best of all, it's F-R-E-E! The Clean Air Council's Greenfest Philly will have fun for greenies (new & seasoned) of all ages! Live music, organic food vendors, family-friendly arts & crafts, and recycling only begin to describe it! Here are some of the things about Greenfest '12 we're excited about:

Arcadia has long been the idea of earthly paradise & wilderness, captured by artists. The Philadelphia Art Museum currently has their own Visions of Arcadia: Gauguin, Cézanne, Matisse exhibition running now through September 3. Three of these mural-sized paintings capture the theme of a mystical place of contentment and harmony, setting the tone of foundations of modern art. This exhibit is exclusive to Philadelphia and includes masterpieces by Picasso, Gleizes, and Signac. Want to experience this for yourself? (Find out how to win a pair of VIP tickets after the jump!)

Save the date! The Hemp Heals Music Festival takes place in Philly at Penn's Landing Festival Pier on August 25th from 4pm-11pm. As the name suggests this music event is unique in that it's founded with a specific mission in mind. Former Philadelphia Flyers player Riley Cote is hosting the event with Live Nation in an effort to educate the public on the powers of holistic healing. He founded the non-profit org, The Hemp Heals Foundation after his younger sister, Jaime was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and found a way to treat and alleviate her symptoms through her diet - specifically through the use of hemp. Click through for details!

Typically we all make the trip to Good Will when making room in the closet for Spring/Summer/Fall/Winter attire... but where can you donate your used clothing to help fellow Philadelphians? You can benefit three awesome local nonprofits in one swoop! (Find out more about this AWESOME initiative, after the jump!)

On Wednesday, June 13th the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce chapter will host an event focusing on energy efficiency for businesses. Today companies - big and small - are taxed with the challenge of finding ways to decrease their energy costs and operate more efficiently. If you're a local business this is a session that may benefit you and your sustainability initiatives. The event will feature a panel of industry experts including keynote speaker, Kyle Tanger, Director of Clear Carbon Service, and energy experts from the Energy Efficient Buildings Hub. Read on for details!

Is your city garden a complete urban oasis? The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS) is now accepting applications for the 2012 City Gardens Contest. You can enter in either

May is officially Bike month, and we're ready to for some two-wheeled action!  Philadelphia's the #1 bike-commuting city and the bicycling rates keep rising, so we're in the PERFECT city to celebrate! The Philadelphia Bike Coalition has tons up its sleeve... How can you celebrate this joyous occasion?