Earth Day is on April 22, and that means it’s time to get outside to help keep our community clean and thriving. It’s also a time to appreciate the world we live in.
Here’s a roundup of events in Northern Virginia where you can celebrate this pale blue dot we call home while working to make it a greener, healthier place for all.
Earth Day Cleanup
April 20, 9–11:30 a.m.
The global theme for this year’s Earth Day is “Planet vs. Plastics,” and here in Northern Virginia, we have many rivers and waterways that need extra help. This cleanup event, where the Virginia Water Environment Association and the American Water Works Association have partnered with the Nature Conservancy and the Fairfax County Park Authority, focuses on clearing watersheds of plastics and debris. Centre Ridge North Park, off St. Germain Dr. and Field Encampment Road, Centreville, free
Earth Day at Arlie
April 21, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
This festival on the grounds of Arlie Hotel is sure to be a hit with the whole family. The day starts with brunch at Harry’s Restaurant, followed by hayrides around the grounds, raffles, and a game of environmental trivia to test your natural knowledge. 6809 Airlie Rd., Warrenton, free admission, brunch extra
Earth Day Festival
April 21, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Take to the streets of Arlington at Earth Day Every Day on Langston Boulevard. Kids will love the Arlington Artists Alliance paint station and the Library on the Move. The event will also feature a scavenger hunt, live music, and food vendors. 4500 Cherry Hill Rd., Arlington, free
Occoquan Earth Day Cleanup
April 22, 3–5 p.m.
Join the Audubon Society of Northern Virginia as it hosts a cleanup of Occoquan River, a critical tributary of the Potomac River. Bags and gloves will be provided, but will be in limited supply, so organizers recommend bringing your own. Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge: 14050 Dawson Beach Rd., Woodbridge, free
Every Day Should Be Earth Day
April 28, 11:30 a.m.–3 p.m.
Enjoy this pop-up Earth Day celebration, where you can learn about being a good steward of the planet we call home. The event will feature family-friendly educational activities. Kids will have the chance to take home pollinator-friendly seeds. 100 Main St., Purcellville
Feature image, stock.adobe.com
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