The older I get, the more I appreciate kitsch. Which is why I can’t help grinning whenever I see the signs for these springtime events: Bountiful Cities Project Annual Birdhouse Auction and The 2nd Annual Earth Day Reggae 5K.
I know, I know … there’s nothing inherently schticky about birdhouses or road races, but when you’re talking about a whole lot of birdhouses (see the Grove Park Inn’s annual Decorated Birdhouse contest, now on display at the hotel) or a whole lot of people running, walking or dancing their way to the finish line, inspired by Caribbean beats … well, then things start to get interesting.
And, to up the fun factor, both events are for a good cause. BCP’s Birdhouse Auction, slated for this Saturday (April 14), is the major fund-raiser for the nonprofit organization which seeks to beautify community spaces and grow food in urban centers. Need more proof? Check out the Dr. George Washington Carver Edible Park at the Stevens Lee Community Center—home to over 30 varieties of fruit trees as well as berries and medicinal herbs.
The birdhouse events kicks off at 2 p.m. at Christopher’s Garden at 307 Waynsville Ave in West Asheville (corner of Waynesville and Westwood Place across from the Gas Up); auction begins at 4 p.m.
The Reggae 5K, touted as “The most fun 5K you’ve ever run,” includes a 5K stroller push and 1K fun run. The race, which begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 21, is followed by an Earth Day celebration with reggae music (naturally) by Deep Roots Sound, tie-dying, raffle, food, drinks, and prizes.
Held at Wolf Creek Cove in Black Mountain, the event supports Southern Appalachian Forest Coalition. Registration runs $25 ($15 for the fun run). Sign up here or visit Jus’ Running (523 Merrimon Ave., Asheville) or Bella Blooms (105 Richardson Blvd., Black Mountain).
— Alli Marshall, A&E reporter
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