The World Environment Fair is a great day out for all ages.
The World Environment Fair is based on the principles of sustainability and the conservation of animals and the environment. If you are interested in making even a small contribution to the planet, this is a great place to start to get some fantastic ideas and to learn something about how you can be a part of changing the world, one step at a time.
The great thing about this fair is that there is something for all ages and all interests: electric cars; native plants; eco-houses; how to identify frogs; how to get involved in caring for birds and other animals; food and wine; caravans and so much more.
Kids Activities
This fair is perfect for families – the kids are so well-catered for. There are so many different activities and exhibits for the kids that it’s impossible to imagine them becoming bored. We were there for 2.5 hours and it really was not long enough to get around to see and do all the things on offer. Aim for at least 4 or more hours.
Many of Australia’s animal and environment conservation groups have stalls with plenty of information and activities to engage the kids.
Highlights
Animals Anonymous
Animals Anonymous had a great exhibit where kids could get up close to see the animals. Animals Anonymous also had a presentation on the Green Theatre stage. If you’ve seen them before, you’ll know that these shows are simple, fun, interactive and educational. It’s great to see and learn more about the creatures of Australia.
The Nature Play Area
This was an amazing achievement! This was the biggest indoor nature play area ever created in Australia and was absolutely fantastic!
There was plenty of room for everyone to play. The central area was filled with sand and bordered by logs and rocks. There was a large log in the centre, perfect for climbing on and walking across. There were dry creek beds and a bridge to wander over, plus several other sandy areas for littlies where they could play with rocks and sticks. There was even a section with chimes and percussion instruments.
This large sandy area was perfect for little ones to indulge in some sensory or creative play.
Kids were able to create mini log fairy gardens with the spare bits of chopped wood, pinecones, and large seeds.
The giant log had kids of all ages constantly crawling upon it plus a rope swing.
There were little corners for littlies to play in – one section had pots and pans for smaller people to play imaginary kitchen games.
These stick tepees were the perfect place to hide!
The brilliant thing about this area was that it allowed kids to be entertained while parents or carers could either have a seat and watch the kids or one of them could wonder off to see the other exhibits without kids in tow. This is a great idea for parents who may normally miss out on seeing exhibits.
Noctarium
This was a small, darkened tent housing nocturnal animals and creatures including very large, hairy spiders, a sugar glider, snakes and frogs. We were even able to get very close to an owl and two bush stone-curlews who were “free-ranging” in a corner. At the entrance to the Noctarium were a range of pythons and lizards being held by their owners. They kindly allowed visitors to pat the reptiles and ask lots of questions about them.
Questacon Exhibits
In a far corner, there were approximately 60 hands-on Questacon exhibits with interactive puzzle and problem-solving science-based stations which were totally engaging for the younger and older kids.
Star-Domes Planetariums
These portable mini-stardomes are always interesting – step inside and it’s like underneath the stars where a speaker takes you on a journey around the constellations, explaining the stories behind them and how to identify them.
Other Highlights for Kids:
- Virtual Reality Glasses
- Evelyn Roth’s Nylon Zoo
- Nonsense Garden
- Bug and Slug stall
Highlights for the grown ups
The fair had talks by some renowned speakers and scientists including Ross Garnaut, Tanya Ha, Therese Kerr and SA’s own local garden guru Sophie Thomson. Many will also remember another special guest speaker, Dr Deane Hutton from the Curiosity Show.
The fair offered the opportunity to learn about many different topics like Straw Bale Houses, eco-caddies, planned burn-offs and so much more. The latest in sustainable technologies was also showcased (I’m pretty sure I’d like to upgrade to the eco-friendly Tesla Car!). For the adventuring types, there was even an inspiring display of caravans.
Green thumbs would love the sustainable landscape design area and native plants for sale.
There were several food stalls and a bar showcasing the latest in organic, sustainably grown food, wine and craft beers, coffee and teas plus food trucks and conveniently located areas to sit and eat while watching the kids play.
What I loved about this fair was how friendly and engaging stall holders were. Many of them were passionate about conserving the creatures and habitats of the planet or promoting sustainability. They were also more than happy to share information and goodies without pushing to purchase products.
The World Environment Fair really has something for everyone and I highly recommend it. There is so much to see, do, buy, try and most importantly learn. Such a fantastic fair – can’t wait for the next one.
At Play & Go Adelaide we make every effort to provide accurate information to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. We recommend confirming times, dates and details directly before making any plans as details may be subject to change.
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