A local climate festival with a big footprint.
Earth Fest has grown into one of Northern Illinois’ joyful annual gatherings for people who care about the places where we live.
100+ attendees
Neighbors, families, students, scientists, artists, educators, and community leaders.
50+ community organizations
Bringing science, sustainability, food, energy, land, art, and local action together under one roof.
10 counties + 3 states represented
What started here in DeKalb is becoming a gathering place for a much bigger regional community.
Always free. Always welcoming. Always local.
Come see what happens when a community gets curious together.
Free, Fun, Festive, Family-Friendly!
April 10, 2027
NIU Founders Memorial Library (free parking)
Free & open to all
FAQ
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DeKalb County Earth Fest is a free, family-friendly community festival celebrating local climate action. Hosted by DeCarbon DeKalb and co-presented by NIU Sustainability, Earth Fest brings together neighbors, local experts, youth voices, food, art, and practical solutions for a healthier, more resilient DeKalb County.
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Saturday, April 10, 2027
NIU Founders Memorial Library, DeKalb, IL -
Yes. Earth Fest is completely free and open to the public. Sponsorships and donations help keep the event accessible to everyone.
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Everyone is welcome. Earth Fest is designed for all ages and backgrounds, whether you’re deeply engaged in climate work or just starting to get curious.
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No. Earth Fest is nonpartisan and community-focused. The event centers practical, locally relevant climate solutions.
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Absolutely. Earth Fest includes youth activities, family programming, and hands-on learning for all ages.
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You can expect:
Inspiring speakers and local experts
Hands-on sessions on energy, food systems, and land stewardship
A community expo with 50+ local vendors and partners
Youth activities and family programming
Food, art, science, and connection
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Yes. NIU Founders Memorial Library is an accessible venue. If you have specific access needs, please contact us at hello@decarbondekalb.com
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Vendors include nonprofits, businesses, educators, artists, and organizations connected to sustainability, energy, food systems, land stewardship, education, health, and community wellbeing.
If you’re unsure whether you’re a fit, we’re happy to talk.
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We expect 1,000+ attendees throughout the day.
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All vendors are invited to a dedicated Vendor Meet & Greet from 10–11 AM, before the event opens to the public.
This is a relaxed hour for vendors to connect, share ideas, and explore collaborations. This is new and we anticipate it will become one of the most valuable parts of Earth Fest.
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Sponsors help keep Earth Fest free and accessible while supporting youth programming, local education, and community resilience. Sponsors are recognized as partners in local climate adaptation.
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Sponsorship tiers include:
Bronze: $250–$499
Silver: $500–$999
Gold: $1,000–$1,499
Platinum: $5,000–$9,999
Lithium: $10,000+
Naming opportunities are available at higher levels.
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Depending on level, recognition may include:
Logo placement on the website and event materials
On-site signage
Mentions in emails and social media
Verbal acknowledgment during the event
We’re happy to tailor benefits to align with sponsor goals.
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Yes. Many sponsors choose to combine sponsorship with a vendor or information table. Options vary by level and space availability.
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Absolutely. Donations support Earth Fest and DeCarbon DeKalb’s year-round work, helping extend the event’s impact beyond a single day.
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Yes. DeCarbon DeKalb is a registered nonprofit, and donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
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Yes. We offer one-time, monthly, and annual giving options. Monthly gifts help provide steady support for year-round community work.
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Yes. Photography and video coverage are welcome. Media should check in at the main entrance on the day of the event.
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You can:
Attend DeCarbon Dialogues
Volunteer
Partner through your organization
Stay connected through our newsletter
Reach out anytime at hello@decarbondekalb.com.
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Reach out to us at hello@decarbondekalb.com!