This year Earth Vibe Productions and Events have decided to make the 5th annual Panhandle Earth Day Celebration free to the public. In return, they are asking for help. Donations are needed either via becoming a sponsor of the event or giving a one-time donation. All proceeds will be used to pay the entertainers who will provide exceptional music throughout the day.

The announcement of this year’s musical line up includes: The Boatmen – The Woodshedders – Billy Thompson Band – Moogatu – Handsome Sonic Bongo Band – LowBrau Highballers – Acoustic Blues Review – Flowers & Birds – Rick Hall – Captain Obvious and the Moot Points – Wainwright Baptist Church Choir – and more!

According to event organizers Todd Coyle and Stephanie Unger, the event began as an effort to promote arts, crafts, music, sustainability and more in the county.

“The date that was available to use Morgan’s Grove Park was ‘Earth Day’ so that’s how it became an “Earth Day” celebration,” laughed Unger.

The two, along with other members of Earth Vibe Productions, Matt Robinson and Bill Unger, hope to continue to provide a venue where individuals and groups can come together and benefit each other all in one location.

“It’s a way of connecting the dots in the county,” Coyle said. “These people often don’t talk to each other.”

The attendance at the annual event has continued to grow each year. The group hope to continue to keep it as a free event to the public while still being able to pay the musicians who entertain.

Vendors come into the park and set up a variety of goods and services for attendees to choose from. Activities include arts and crafts, foods, kid’s activities, demonstrations, environmental and conservation groups, farmer’s market vendors and more.

There is a minimal cost for vendors to participate, which in turn, helps the event sustain itself while offering a free venue to the public. Those who are interested in setting up a booth at the event are encouraged to contact Stephanie Unger at stephanie@earthvibeproductions.com or by calling 304-702-2620. A spot can be secured for only $25 through the end of February when the cost goes to $35.

The event is sponsored by several entities. So far, sponsorship for the 2013 event inlcudes Kohlepp Insurance Agency, Apple Valley Waste, Frederick Acoustic Music Enterprise, Shepherdstown Community Club, The Bloomery Distillery and Man on the Line Music.

The event is a family friendly, community-oriented one, held rain or shine. This is a leave no trace occasion. Feel free to bring a picnic lunch, lawn chairs, blankets and comforts for an afternoon in the park. Please leave dogs at home.

There is always a need for volunteers to help with the event, Unger said. Any time given would be helpful. Those who may be interested in a volunteer opportunity are encouraged to contact Unger at the above given contacts.

For more information, please visit pedc.earthvibeproductions.com.