This year marks the 10th anniversary of Organicfest, a celebration of "all things organic and green.” Debi Athos, the founder and director of the festival, says that she's excited to host the event in its original location, the Roger McGuire Green at Pack Square Park downtown in front of the Buncombe County Courthouse and Asheville City Hall.
At press time, 60 vendors were slated to be at the festival, with more signing up every day, says Athos. She expects the final total to be closer to 75. "We have local vendors as well as new vendors. Some of them are coming from as far away as Honolulu, Hawaii," she says. "We have a nice variety. One of the goals of Organicfest is to let people know that organic is more than food — it's a lifestyle. It's everything from organic food to flowers, fabrics, body care, even pet supplies and home products. We have a nice selection to reflect that."
A number of food vendors will be represented this year; Beagle Bay Organics from Florida makes six different flavors of sauerkraut, including dill-carrot and jalapeño. You'll likely be familiar with Asheville's own Hop Ice Cream Café, who will offer vegan ice cream, sorbets and sherbets — all organic. Green Sage, Green Light Cafe and the French Broad Food Co-op will also be represented.
Aside from food, there will be plenty of live entertainment and informational activities (A full schedule is available at organicfest.org). Making its return this year is the ever-adorable kids' parade (see ridiculously cute photo above). "We invite kids from the community to dress up as their favorite beneficial bug or garden fairy," Athos says. "More and more each year, these kids are coming with awesome costumes, but some don't know." To keep anyone from feeling left out, a costume- and sign-making spot has been designated so all of the kids can join in the fun.
Organicfest will take place Saturday, Sept. 10, from 10 a.m. until about sundown. Visit organicfest.org for more information.
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