An exceptionally warm April day was host to the annual GreenFest on Sunday, an all-day event with live musical acts that promotes sustainability and the legalization of marijuana.
Sponsored by Ramapo NORML (National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws) and 1STEP, the event was held at the bandshell and moved up one week because of Easter Sunday. Assisting with the sound set-up was WRPR.
Blankets and quilts spread out in front of the bandshell allowed students to lie out and soak up the sun as they took in the variety of musical acts.
Ramapo performers including Andrew Clayton from “The Bloodwashed Band” and Amanda Fama took the stage in the afternoon, while outside entertainment comprising of the groups “InCircles,” “Gridline,” and “Citrus Distress” rounded out the early evening entertainment. The type of music played was a wide range of indie, funk, reggae, rock and pop. Essentially there was something for everyone.
“It was a good time, they had a lot to offer. I was surprised how many musical acts they had,” said senior Maria Procopio.
The pleasantness of the weather aided in the exceptional turnout for the all-day event consisting of music, activities and good vibes. Students crowded the grassy area in front of the stage and beyond, all in search of a fun way to spend a Sunday afternoon. The event provided free food from “Moe’s,” “Nicky’s Pizza,” “Lolito’s Subs,” and “Rita’s.” Another free offer was green sunglasses and the opportunity to make tie-dye t-shirts.
“It definitely helped that they had free food to give out because I know it attracted a lot of students. I also think that people had a lot of fun with the inflatable slide,” said freshman Jordan Richards.
Yoga classes were another scheduled activity built into the event, which were free and made for any skill level to enjoy. Students brought their own entertainment and could be seen tossing around Frisbees, footballs and baseballs, and enjoying the inflatable slide and a large spreadable parachute. The event had a barbecue feel because of the surplus of summertime happenings that were going on throughout the day.
The annual GreenFest serves as a welcoming of spring and offers the community a way to join together and listen to music whilst playing a variety of games, all for free. NORML and 1STEP have joined forces once again to bring together hundreds of students together for a casual festival.
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brocha@ramapo.edu
