Ramona Unites for Sustainability at the 4th Annual Earth Day Festival
The fourth annual Ramona Earth Day Festival brought the community together with music, education, and hands-on activities to celebrate sustainability, conservation, and climate action despite a rainy day.
The 4th Annual Ramona Earth Day Festival drew residents and visitors to Begent Ranch on Saturday, April 26, for a lively and educational celebration of environmental awareness and sustainable living.
Organized by Sustainable Ramona, the day-long festival offered something for all ages — from live music and folklórico dancers to hands-on exhibits, food vendors, and an interactive Sustainable Treasure Hunt for kids. More than 35 local vendors and nonprofits participated, sharing products, information, and inspiration focused on eco-friendly practices. Sustainable Ramona, a local organization dedicated to promoting environmental awareness and conservation, hosts events like the Earth Day Festival to engage the community in sustainability, education, and climate action.
“I am very happy about the turnout considering the rainy weather,” said Sustainable Ramona Media Lead Michelle Sund.
Backed by sponsors such as the Barona Band of Mission Indians, 2Create Gallery, and community leaders like Deborah and Rob Lewallen, the event emphasized accessible ways to reduce environmental impact. Rob Lewallen, a member of the Sustainable Ramona Board of Directors, delivered an engaging talk emphasizing the importance of reducing our carbon footprint by using fewer harmful fuels in our daily lives, which inspired attendees to take simple, meaningful actions toward lowering their environmental impact.
Bob Hill from EDCO spoke about recycling, while Susan White shared helpful information at the Ramona Disposal booth. Cherry Robinson from The Climate Reality Project discussed the Ramona-Barona Climate Adaptation and Action Plan. In addition, the Climate Reality Project also offered an immersive virtual reality experience, which transported participants into stunning natural environments and inspired conservation action.
Musical performances included the Garden Variety Band, the Haywire Band from Julian, the return of the Time Bandits featuring Jim Nau and Rob Lewallen, and a performance by the Folklórico dancers.
As the sun set on Begent Ranch, the message was clear: sustainability is not just a global issue — it starts in our own backyards. The festival closed with thanks and a heartfelt “farewell until next year,” reinforcing the community’s ongoing commitment to protecting the place we call home.
