NY Capital District EVA Brings Electric Energy to the Inaugural Mohawk-Hudson Earth Fest

By Kate Kruk, EVA VP

On Saturday, April 25, 2026, Schenectady, NY’s Central Park came alive with music, community spirit, and a shared commitment to sustainability during the inaugural Mohawk-Hudson Earth Fest. Held at the Music Haven stage from 12 to 4 PM, this free, family-friendly event brought together residents, local organizations, and advocates to celebrate Earth Day and Arbor Day in a meaningful, hands-on way.

Presented by Music Haven and The Eighth Step, the festival featured an engaging mix of live performances, including Taina Asili’s Fever Pitch, Lui Collins, Magpie, and Betty & The Baby Boomers, paired with environmental talks and poetry from Schenectady Poet Laureate Adonis Richards. Families enjoyed a vibrant Kids’ Area with storytelling, crafts, and interactive activities led by Deb Cavanaugh, Terri Roben, and Children at the Well, while local vendors served up favorites like Mike’s Hot Dogs, Homestyle Pizza, empanadas, and Ben & Jerry’s.

Amid the festivities, members of the New York Capital District Electric Vehicle Association (NY Capital District EVA) proudly participated as part of Drive Electric Earth Month, a nationwide campaign to raise awareness about the benefits of electric vehicles. Despite the brisk weather, EVA members spent the afternoon connecting with attendees, showcasing their vehicles, including the Hyundai Ioniq 6 and the Ford F-150 Lightning, and sharing real-world insights about EV ownership.

Their presence sparked plenty of curiosity. Many festivalgoers arrived with the common perception that EVs are expensive or impractical. Conversations quickly shifted as attendees learned about the growing used EV market, significantly lower maintenance costs, and the day-to-day convenience of charging at home. With gas prices top of mind for many, the cost savings of driving electric became a major talking point.

Having National Grid positioned nearby added another layer of value, helping visitors explore current incentives and off-peak charging programs that can make EV ownership even more affordable. A highlight of the display was the EV charging unit provided by Lynkwell, proudly made in Schenectady, demonstrating how clean energy technology is not only transforming transportation but also creating local jobs and economic opportunity.

The festival also featured displays by sustainability organizations, tree planting initiatives, and a Kids Arts Fest focused on creative reuse, reinforcing the event’s mission to inspire action at every level.

Sponsors including National Grid, Price Chopper/Market 32, WAMC Northeast Public Radio, The Daily Gazette, Union College, and the City and County of Schenectady helped make the day possible, alongside community partners like ReTree Schenectady and Kids Arts Fest.

The Mohawk-Hudson Earth Fest proved to be more than just a celebration—it was a reminder that building a greener future takes community, conversation, and a willingness to explore new possibilities. For the NY Capital District EVA, it was another opportunity to meet people where they are, answer questions, and help more drivers see that the future of transportation isn’t just electric…it’s already here!