By Sophia Rutti
Earth Day is an annual tradition that brings attention to the environment and to the ways we can move forward to improve and preserve it. Earth Day has been observed since 1970 when it was initiated by its founder Gaylord Nelson, then a U.S. senator from Wisconsin.
On April 22, 1970, 20 million Americans took to the streets to celebrate the Earth and to discuss how we can take better care of our home. The first Earth Day brought about the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency, the passage of the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act and the Endangered Species Act.
Now 45 years later, Earth Day is still being celebrated in more than 192 countries each year.
This year Earth Day falls on Wednesday, April 22, but that doesn’t meant that you can only celebrate the Earth for one day. This whole week there are events in the DMV to get the whole family celebrating spring, the Earth, and the natural beauty of Northern Virginia.
Here are a few ways to get involved in Earth day this week:
There will be free admission and parking on April 25 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. to any person who wants to come out and learn about environmental projects, eat delicious local food, play games and ride ponies. A perfect event for families with children, it will not only be educational but also exciting with many fun games for kids. There will be no shortage of Earth Day excitement at the Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton.
For more info click here.
2. Disneynature’s “Monkey Kingdom”
Head out to your local movie theater to watch Disneynature’s “Monkey Kingdom.” Learn about the lives of South Asian monkeys as they struggle with the competitive social hierarchy of the troop at Castle Rock, all narrated by Tina Fey. If you see the movie this week, every ticket will be a donation to protect monkeys and other endangered species in their natural habitats.
For more info click here.
3. “Planetary” presented by the World Wildlife Fund
Director Guy Reid brings a poetic and humbling reminder that it is time for humans to reconsider our relationship with the world around us. This special showing will dazzle with gorgeous imagery of our world both on the ground and from the clouds. If you are in need of a reminder of our effect on the Earth or are seeking a film that will provoke thought and discussion, this is it. This event will be presented on April 22 at the AFI Silver Theater and Cultural Center in Silver Spring, Maryland. Tickets are $7-$12.
For more info click here or to buy tickets click here.
It is also important remember that you don’t need an event to get involved. Take the family outside, volunteer, plant a garden, turn off your lights, recycle—do what you can to be informed and to enjoy the natural beauty of the Earth.
