The third annual Oklahoma Recycling Festival is shifting the focus toward a greener future, uniting people from all walks of life through music, food and entertainment.

Held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Nov. 14 at the Canadian County Expo and Event Center, 3001 Jensen Road East in El Reno, the event is open to all community members, recycling enthusiasts and families. Oklahoma State University Extension is partnering with the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality, CDR Global, Inc., Oklahoma Environmental Management Authority and Goodwill Central Oklahoma to host the festival.

“The annual Oklahoma Recycling Festival is a family-friendly event that will serve as a powerful catalyst for community engagement, responsible waste diversion and recycling education statewide,” said Keima Borsuah, Oklahoma State University Extension solid waste assistant specialist.

Attendees have the opportunity to explore innovative recycled art, and participate in educational games and upcycling activities. In addition, businesses and organizations driving change in Oklahoma’s recycling and sustainability industry will attend to connect with community members. The festival offers Oklahomans a free, specialized waste collection drive, a seamless opportunity to responsibly discard hard-to-recycle items free of charge.

Accepted materials include tires, batteries, cardboard, aluminum and tin cans, paper, plastic bottles and jugs, glass, clothing, purses, jewelry, shoes, dishes, cookware, small appliances, linens, toys, books, bicycles and electronics.

Beyond recycling waste, the festival features interactive, family-friendly activities. Children and adults can enjoy face painting, educational games, a practical clothing repair class and unique photo opportunities, including posing with a human recycling bin and getting a hands-on look at a real waste management truck. On-site food vendors will also be cooking a variety of local dishes for purchase.

Some of the featured activities include:

• Jump rope: An upcycling activity
• Face painting and recycling
• Spin-the-wheel recycling trivia
• Tire collection
• Recycling bingo
• Mending station: Teaching how to sew buttons

The Oklahoma Recycling Festival seamlessly blends environmental action with community celebration. For more information on event scheduling, location details, vendor listings, and acceptable materials, visit the Annual Oklahoma Recycling Festival website or contact Keima Borsuah at keima.kamara@okstate.edu.

FAQs

When and where will the Oklahoma Recycling Festival take place?

The third annual Oklahoma Recycling Festival will be held Nov. 14 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Canadian County Expo and Event Center, 3001 Jensen Road East in El Reno.

Is there a cost to attend the festival?

No. The festival is free and open to all community members, recycling enthusiasts and families. Accepted materials also can be dropped off at no charge.

What types of materials can attendees bring to recycle?

Accepted items include tires, batteries, cardboard, paper, plastic bottles and jugs, glass, clothing, shoes, small appliances, electronics, books, bicycles and various household goods.

What activities will be available for families?

Families can enjoy face painting, recycling bingo, trivia games, upcycling activities, a clothing mending station, recycled art displays and opportunities to see a waste management truck. Food vendors also will be on-site with dishes available for purchase.

Story By: Taylor Yount | taylor.yount@okstate.edu