The ECO film festival was created by Lisa Lillelund as a venue to educate and motivate people in a fun, social atmosphere. The two day event featured nine films along with many social activities to encourage discussion and interaction among participants.

The ECO film festival represented a new kind of film festival dedicated to increasing awareness about environmental issues and about how our daily choices can have a profound affect on the quality of our air, water and land.  Special activities and films were also offered throughout the weekend tailored to educate and interest young children as well. 

On Saturday, April 5, events took place at the new Wylie Conference Center located along the ocean on Endicott College campus. Along with the many thought provoking films being shown, a Green Lounge exhibit area featured 12 companies and grass roots organizations supporting the preservation of our environment.

Saturday night was the Gala Party with the Massachusetts premier of the film, Kilowatt Ours. The goal of the evening was to educate people about energy conservation and renewable energy in a lively, party atmosphere. A cocktail reception with filmmaker Heather Barrie kicked off the evening, followed by a screening of her film. Fred Hopps, Chairman of Solar Now, shared with the audience the success of Solar Now, the local solar and wind site providing solar power to the community since 1982. The evening ended with a night of dancing and partying in the main reception hall.

On Sunday, April 6, early risers enjoyed a guided tour of Solar Now. Film screenings were held throughout the day on the campus of Montserrat College of Art. Local restaurants and cafes featured organic and locally produced menus. Sunday night the festival wrapped up with an Art and Wine Reception for the special Art Exhibit featuring recycled materials entitled, "It's Getting Hot in Here", organized by the Montserrat College of Art.

To link directly to the 2008 ECO Film Festival web site click HERE.

April 5/6, 2008

Beverly, MA

 Efestival Festival powered by Wind offsets donated by Meridian Associates. From left to right: Don Bowan, Sharon Fuller, Beverly Mayor Bill Scanlon, Lisa Lillelund, Tracey Byrne, Kelly, Brad Bradshaw

Lisa addresses the audience during the Gala Party and screening of Kilowatt Ours. 

Heather Barrie of Kilowatt Ours engages the children in a discussion on mountain top removal in Appalachia.

The Gala Evening raised awareness for Solar Now, America's oldest solar site of its size. Solar Now provides around 10% of the energy for the Beverly High School from solar and wind powere generation.

Click here for a list of Sponsors of the ECO Film Festival.