During International Earth Week, Austin Habitat for Humanity ReStore hosted Earth Fest 2026 as a community focused event centered on sustainability and creative reuse.
Earth Fest was also a chance to introduce more people to the ReCreateIt Gigalab and the work happening inside it. The Gigalab turns recycled plastic into useful products through large scale 3D printing. It demonstrates how plastic that would normally be discarded can be given a second life in practical and creative ways. The event also highlighted the arrival of the new Terabot printer, which will be placed near the front entrance of the ReStore so customers can see it as they walk in. This new equipment expands what the ReCreateIt team can do and allows more recycled plastic to be processed for larger and more detailed printing projects.
Throughout the day, ReStore featured several community partners working in sustainability, and conservation across Austin. Guests connected with Austin Resource Recovery, Austin Energy, Austin Reuse Coalition, Austin Creative Reuse, Bat Conservation International, and Green Corn Project. Each group shared their work and gave visitors a closer look at how they support a more sustainable Austin.
Local maker Revision Goods also joined the event, showcasing thoughtfully designed products created from reclaimed materials and demonstrating how reuse can be both functional and visually creative.
One of the most hands-on parts of the day came from Austin Creative Reuse, who hosted a workshop where kids created paper flowers using assorted craft paper and leftover materials. Families also had the opportunity to pot their own succulents in custom 3D printed pots made specifically for Earth Fest. The activities gave visitors a fun and approachable way to think about creativity, and reuse.
Outside the ReStore, guests were able to enjoy food and drinks throughout the day. A hot dog truck was on site and beverages were generously provided by partners including BREZ, Liquid Death, SUNBOY, and others. Free KONA Ice was also available for visitors throughout the day.
Guests were also welcomed by KLZT La Z 107.1, who joined the event throughout the day with live music, and raffle opportunities for visitors. Their presence helped bring even more energy to the festival and created a fun atmosphere for families and guests exploring the event.
The event showed how community organizations and local residents can work together to support environmental efforts across Austin. More than anything, Earth Fest showed that building a more sustainable future can start with simple actions and community involvement.
