Steve Baker remembers attending his first Earth Day celebration in 1970.

Even back then, he said, there was concern the world would eventually deplete its fossil-fuel supply.

Four decades later, Baker said he's been less than impressed with society's attempts at stemming its energy crisis.

But as energy prices continue to rise, both at the pump and at home, economic factors are forcing regular folks to finally take a look at alternative energies, said Baker, who chairs the Green Party of York County.

Environmental activists and penny-pinchers are coming together under an umbrella of shared interests, he said.

"You could say the time has come," he said. "Let's face it. Energy prices are not going to get any lower."

On June 9, the local Green Party will host EnergyStock, a music-and-information festival where homeowners and business owners can meet and chat with experts in the field of alternative energies such as solar, wind and geothermal.

Free event: The event will be the first of its kind, though it's the Green Party's second attempt at hosting it. What was supposed to be the first EnergyStock had to be canceled last year when the Codorus Creek overflowed its banks near Foundry Park in York City.

"This year we're being a little smarter. We have a rain date for the following Saturday," Baker said.

The free festival, which draws its name from the famous Woodstock musical festival, won't disappoint folks who want to hear some tunes.

At least four local bands will take the outdoor stage between 11 a.m. and dusk.

There will also be organic foods and speakers, including one who lives "off the grid." On display will the new Nissan Leaf, an electric car.

But the main attraction are the vendors and contractors, many of whom hail from York County, who will be on hand to answer questions, Baker said.

Solar, wind and geothermal energies are better for the environment, and they allow homeowners to offset energy costs and sometimes even sell energy back to utility companies, Baker said.

"People are spending more of their income on energy," he said. "I think people should know that they have options to save money."

If you go:

What: EnergyStock, a festival about alternative energies

Where: Foundry Park, off West Philadelphia Street in York city

When: 11 a.m. to dusk, Saturday, June 9

Details: Admission is free. Four local bands -- Free Breakfast, Lucid Dreamers, The Beaver Street Band and Dr. Slothclaw -- will take the stage.

-- Reach Erin James at 505-5439 or ejames@yorkdispatch.com or on Twitter @ydcity.