York Children’s Water Festival / Our Greener Side Celebration

In 2009, York Region hosted the 11th annual York Children's Water Festival to educate Grade four students on water conservation and environmental stewardship.

This event incorporates 54 Ontario Curriculum-related activities on the themes of water conservation, changing environmental attitudes, water and technology, water protection, water science and water stewardship.

Due to the popularity of the festival, Town of Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti, the festival chair, suggested an event to bring this learning opportunity to all York Region residents, young and old. Staff worked with this idea until "Our Greener Side” celebration was born. On the Saturday prior to the York Children's Water Festival, several activities were set up for viewing by all residents. They were joined by other environmental groups to create an environmental learning environment for all.