Local Events Without the Politics

Photo Credit: MELISSA MURRAY

Sometimes it’s easy to get caught up in consumerism and covet events that seem far flung and more exotic than what’s offered in our own home towns. This is a costly mistake – to the environment, our wallets and our communities. There are wonderful activities at home that are short, uplifting and either free or at a greatly reduced cost when compared to bigger tourist events.

This weekend I headed to my town’s first ever Earth Day Festival, and it was utterly joyful. The trip did not require more than a three minute drive (Hello! No sitting in I-95 traffic for two hours!). There was no set-up, planning or dissection of every detail before leaving home. It was easy. The sun was beautiful. The people were lovely, and we had the sense we were doing something good for our community.

Particularly for those with no children in their area school system, it is easy to avoid local town events. However, choosing a local activity you can get onboard with can help you connect to an area you’d otherwise have no interest in.

In my town, there are many controversial activities. The local Board of Education politics are ruthless. There’s name-calling, suing and debating Critical Race Theory. All. Day. Long. The local zoning board is not much different. For all the beauty of my city, proximity to New York and openness to diversity, it can also be overrun by nepotism, cronyism and vindictive politics. I have never wanted to be involved and to be sure, I am not the only one who avoids suburban politics at all cost – but, that does not have to be the end to your search for community either.

Find something that feels right to you. Pop by for a few, and keep conversation neutral. Sometimes, people will try to pull you in anyway. My husband and I get invited to a neighbor’s BBQ every 4th of July and after a few tense political conversations, we decided the 4th will be an annual travel weekend for us – ensuring we remain friends with our beloved neighbors but avoiding partisan labels.

This year my husband and I attended Earth Day. It was non-controversial and lovely. The community was supportive and there were no rallies, debates or ugly politics. It was just a gorgeous day on our gorgeous historic town green. I was grateful for it. It reminded me what I like about our community (and who I like). My husband took part in a bike tour that he loved. It was all very nice and easy – and more relaxing then big roadtrips. With that said, I don’t know that I need to attend more than one or two local events in a year but I am happy that I did. It’s all about strategizing and making it work for you!