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.

Saturday, April 11, 2026
11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
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.

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.

No. Earth Fest is nonpartisan and community-focused. The event centers practical, locally relevant climate solutions.

Registration is encouraged but not required. RSVPing helps us plan, but walk-ins are welcome.

Absolutely. Earth Fest includes youth activities, family programming, and hands-on learning for all ages.

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

Yes. NIU Founders Memorial Library is an accessible venue. If you have specific access needs, please contact us at hello@decarbondekalb.com

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.

We expect 1,000+ attendees throughout the day.

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.

Vendor setup takes place during the Vendor Meet & Greet hour (10–11 AM). Vendors should be fully set up by 11:00 AM.

Yes. Vendors may sell products, share information, collect sign-ups, and engage attendees, as long as activities align with Earth Fest’s respectful, community-centered atmosphere.

There’s a suggested donation of $25/table for nonprofits and $50/table for businesses. If cost is a barrier, please reach out; we aim to be accessible.

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.

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.

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.

Yes. Many sponsors choose to combine sponsorship with a vendor or information table. Options vary by level and space availability.

Absolutely. Donations support Earth Fest and DeCarbon DeKalb’s year-round work, helping extend the event’s impact beyond a single day.

Yes. DeCarbon DeKalb is a registered nonprofit, and donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

Yes. We offer one-time, monthly, and annual giving options. Monthly gifts help provide steady support for year-round community work.

Yes. Photography and video coverage are welcome. Media should check in at the main entrance on the day of the event.

You can:

• Attend DeCarbon Dialogues

• Volunteer

• Partner through your organization

• Stay connected through our newsletter

Reach out anytime at hello@decarbondekalb.com.

Reach out to us at hello@decarbondekalb.com!