GreenFest 2012: Elkridge Chickens, Solar Telescope and More

Families looking for a chance to learn more about the environment and ways to "go green" are in luck.

Howard County's fifth annual GreenFest is on Saturday at in Columbia. More than 100 vendors, workshops and demonstrations will be in the Burrill Galleria from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Elkridge resident Cathy Hudson will be speaking about "Raising Chickens in Your Yard," based on her experiences raising the birds on Lawyers Hill, at 11 a.m.

Howard County Executive Ken Ulman will be there, along with GreenFest organizers from the Office of Environmental Sustainability, the Department of Recreation and Parks, and the Department of Public Works.

"This year's theme is 'Saving the Environment One Yard at a Time' and focuses on the importance of taking steps at your own home to make a big impact," according to a press release for the event.

Among the attractions for the festival:

• Live reptiles and birds
• Solar telescopes
• Rain barrel workshops
• Tree plantings
• Mini farmers market

How do you stay green at home? Tell us in the comments.