AltBuildExpo: Free green building expo this weekend

Alt Build Expo starts in Santa Monica tomorrow -- and it's FREE!

Check out more than 150 exhibits that'll address all aspects of green building, from eco-friendly materials to water conservation techniques to sustainable interior design. Free seminars and classes happen throughout the weekend too, in case you're planning to green your own home and could use some advice.

When: Friday, April 25 and Saturday, April 26. 10 am - 5 pm both days
Where: Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, 1855 Main St., Santa Monica
Cost: FREE!

Presented by the City of Santa Monica, the Alternative Building Materials & Design Expo will likely be packed this year, what with the city of L.A. just passing its green building ordinance and L.A. county working on its own eco-building standards.

In addition to the exhibits and the seminars, the expo will host book signings, hold screenings of eco-films such as "The Story of Stuff," and feature musical performances by the Martini Kings from 4 pm - 5 pm on both days of the event.

The expo will also serve as a debut of sorts for Green Cities California, a coalition of sustainable California cities and counties that brings together environmental executives of these jurisdictions to cooperatively and collectively undertake enviro-friendly initiatives. GCC will give its first official presentation on Friday at 1 pm.

Bike over and take advantage of the free bicycle valet service, or take the Santa Monica Big Blue Bus for just 75 cents. You can, of course, also drive; enjoy fighting traffic and get ready to fork over $8 for parking.

And bring your reusable water bottle with you! In keeping with its green mission, the expo will have filtered water available to refill your to-go bottle.

If you haven't had your fill of green building at the end of the expo, take one of the free, self-guided Green Building Tours on Sunday, April 27. You'll get to take a closer look at the green homes, offices and gardens in the L.A. area.