Our history, mission, and vision for the future
It's hard to believe it's been more than a decade since the last Idyllwild Earth Fair. The memory of it still lingers with us. Recently, several original committee members found themselves reminiscing, especially after hearing whispers of a possible revival of the Fair in the Idyllwild community. This sparked the idea to bring back the Earth Fair and share its rich history with a new generation.
The Idyllwild Earth Fair began in 1990 as part of the 20th anniversary celebration of Earth Day. What started as a small community gathering quickly grew into an annual tradition that lasted for 24 consecutive years until 2014. Throughout those years, the Earth Fair became a beloved event that brought together environmental organizations, local artists, musicians, and community members of all ages.
The first Earth Fair was organized in 1990 as part of Earth Day's 20th anniversary. A group of like-minded Idyllwild residents gathered at Town Hall for a celebration featuring environmental displays, music, arts and crafts, and dancing around a May Pole. This community-driven event established what would become a cherished annual tradition celebrating environmental stewardship on the mountain.
The Greenwood Award is established to recognize individuals and organizations making outstanding contributions to the regional environment. Richard Greenwood is the first recipient.
Earth Fair celebrates its 10th anniversary with the theme "Earth Warrior: Guardian of the Wild" with artwork by Polly Walker.
The 20th Idyllwild Earth Fair is celebrated with the theme "One Planet is All We Get" with artwork by Richelle Gribble.
The 25th Earth Fair is held with the theme "Born to be Wild!" featuring artwork by Justin Jones. This would be the last Earth Fair before a hiatus.
After a decade-long hiatus, the Idyllwild Earth Fair returns for its 26th event, partnering with the Mountain Communities Fire Safe Council. The 2025 theme is "Its Time to Give a Shift!"
The Idyllwild Earth Fair's mission is to provide an annual community celebration that promotes environmental awareness, education, and action through engaging exhibitions, performances, and activities for all ages.
Do you have photos, stories, or memorabilia from past Earth Fairs? We'd love to add them to our archives and possibly feature them on our website!
Share Your MemoriesThe Idyllwild Town Crier covered the very first Earth Fair in 1990. This historical article marks the beginning of our long-standing tradition.
From the Idyllwild Town Crier, April 19, 1990
