BNS EarthFest
2025
Join us for Blacksburg New School’s EarthFest! This family-friendly event will feature interactive eco-activities for all ages, as well as a Plant & Garden Market, and a Used Book & Game Sale. You can enjoy a storytime with Claire from Foggy Oak Fairy Tales podcast, catch a performance by Blacksburg Dance Theater, check out live fish from Virginia Tech’s Fish & Wildlife Conservation, and cool off with a treat from Spoons Shaved Ice & More. Admission is free! Come celebrate Earth Day with us and support BNS while enjoying a fun-filled day with the community!
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Note: Because onsite parking is limited, we encourage folks to carpool. There is street parking available at nearby neighborhoods only a short walk away. We'll also have a drop off site for those needing to drop participants off before parking.
Activities for Kids & Families
Nature Scavenger Hunt
Search the school grounds for natural treasures and check them off your list—fun for all ages!
Storytime with Claire from Foggy Oak Fairy Tales
Gather ’round for a magical story adventure with local author and podcaster Claire Krendl Gilbert.
Earth Day Bingo
Join a quick round of nature-themed bingo and win a fun prize!
EarthFlow - Community Movement & Yoga
Enjoy a playful, nature-themed group yoga and movement session—open to all ages.
Pollinator Seed Bomb Station
Make your own wildflower seed bomb using native seeds—perfect for helping local pollinators.
Maker Station
Use recycled materials to create your own eco-inspired art.
Live Fish Exhibit from VT Wildlife & Fisheries
See local fish up close and learn about our regional aquatic ecosystems.
Hands-on with the Virginia Tech Bug Zoo
Meet fascinating creatures like tarantulas, scorpions, giant hissing cockroaches, whip spiders, and more. It’s a hands-on experience that brings the wonders of entomology to life for all ages.
Live Performances
Storytime with Claire from Foggy Oak Fairy Tales (12 pm & 2 pm)
Cozy up for a storytelling experience kids and parents will love.
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Blacksburg Dance Theater Performance (1:30 pm)
Enjoy a special performance by the kids’ group from this holistic local dance school.
Marketplace & Vendors
Plant & Garden Market
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Houseplants, veggie and herb starters, perennials, and more for Crow’s Nest Nursery and community growers.
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Take home a sapling from our beloved willow tree—a piece of BNS history!
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Master Gardeners will be available to answer your gardening questions.
Books, Games & Puzzles Sale
​Gently used books, puzzles, and games for all ages at great prices.
Spoons Shaved Ice & More
A sweet, icy treat for a warm spring day!
Bake Sale
​Enjoy baked goods from our BNS community
Silent Auction
Don’t miss our EarthFest Silent Auction—packed with unique, locally donated treasures! Bid on items like themed gift baskets, handcrafted wreaths, stunning nature photography, and more. Experiences include a pony ride and horse time at Merrimac Farm, a two-night stay at the historic Linkous-Kipps House, a private music lesson with a Virginia Tech professor, a birthday party at The Art Factory, and a month of yoga at In Balance Yoga. Bidding closes at 2:45 PM—no need to be present to win!
Plan Your Visit
Admission
Free!
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Location
2500 N. Main Street, Blacksburg, VA
Parking
Because onsite parking is limited, we encourage folks to carpool. There is street parking available in nearby neighborhoods only a short walk away. We'll also have a drop off site for those needing to drop participants off before parking.
Restrooms
Restrooms are available on-site
What to bring
Help us keep EarthFest eco-friendly! Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and reusable bags for any books, plants, or goodies you pick up at the event.
Rain Date
April 27th, 12 - 3 pm
Full Schedule
12:10
12:30
1:00
1:30
2:00
All Day