This year is the 56th year of recognizing Earth Day, the day known for showing communal support for environmental protection. It’s time to get out, enjoy nature, and give it the shine it deserves. Here are nine events you can participate in to show your love for Mother Earth on April 22.
Green Reston
April 11, 10 a.m.–noon
Head over to Hunters Woods Plaza for this green event. Get the best tips on how to be more sustainable from local organizations. Families can also participate in the Green Reston Scavenger Hunt all throughout April and get the chance to win a prize. Hunters Woods Plaza, Reston, free
Small-Space Gardening Workshop
April 18, 10:30 a.m.–noon
Want to grow your own plants without a backyard? Learn how to grow your own vegetables and herbs in small spaces at this free workshop hosted by Hands on Harvests. ACCA Child Development Center, Annandale, free with registration
Providence District Earth Day Celebration
April 18, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
Celebrate the planet at this Earth Day event. Participate in a number of eco-friendly activities, workshops, and hear about ways to lower your carbon footprint. Graham Road Community Building, Falls Church
Earth Day Celebration
April 18, 1–3 p.m.
Grab your Earth Day Passports and earn an official Earth Hero Certificate at this Dulles Town Center event. Try out interactive activities such as a seed planting station, an upcycled craft studio, and an obstacle course and collect passport stamps as you go. Dulles Town Center, Dulles, free
Out with the Old, In with the New, Recycled Art
April 19, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Get creative at this no-waste event at Mason Neck State Park. Craft your own collages, vision boards, posters, and more with old magazines, water bottles, and art materials. Participants can bring their own recyclables to use. Mason Neck State Park, Lorton, free
National Landing Community Clean Up
April 22, 10 a.m.–noon
Enjoy some friendly competition at this litter collection contest at National Landing. The two heaviest trash bag collectors will win Open Rewards Cash vouchers to local restaurants. A battery recycling pop-up as well as a post-clean up social hour will also be available. Crystal City Water Park, Arlington, free with registration
Park Day Clean Up
April 25, 9 a.m.–2 p.m.
Help keep the historic sites of Culpeper Battlefields State Park clean. Volunteers will replace split rails, place fences, and clean up the park. Bug repellent, water, gloves, sunscreen, and closed toed shoes are all encouraged. Culpeper Battlefields State Park, Rapidan, free with email sign-up
Earth Day Loudoun
April 25, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Hear from local scientists, farmers, and activists on environmental preservation at this family-friendly festival. Kids can enjoy obstacle courses, climbing walls, and a petting zoo. This festival also offers food trucks and live performances. Franklin Park, Purcellville, free
Earth Day Festival
April 25, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Bring the whole family to this all-day festival featuring games, food, performances, and more. A petting zoo, craft tables, and hands-on exhibits and experiments will be available for kids. Parents can enjoy local bands, a craft beer garden, and more than 10 food truck options. Lake Fairfax Park, Reston, free with $10 parking per vehicle
EARTh Day Celebration
April 25, 11 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Pay a visit to Reston Town Square for this art-filled celebration. Presented by Tephra ICA and Public Art Reston, this event features face painting, poetry contests, and concerts. Enter the environmentally themed Chalkfest and win cash prizes at the end of the day. Reston Town Square, Reston, free
Featured image courtesy Virginia State Parks
