Earth Day can be a formative time for children to learn about taking care of the planet and helping the world around them. Doing things like picking up litter and planting flowers can be a great, relatively low-stakes way for children to help their community and gain an appreciation for nature.
During the lead up to and the days after Earth Day on April 22, there are many local events that celebrate the holiday—ranging from festivals to 5Ks to educational opportunities. Here are five events all about taking care of our Earth.
Earth Day 1M 5K 10K 13.1 26.2
April 14-23, Anywhere (Virtual)
Work up a sweat while raising money for a good cause! Prospective runners and walkers can participate in this event from anywhere in the world at their own pace. Fifteen percent of all bib sales go to Wild Earth Allies, supporting its work protecting endangered species and at-risk habitats. Participants will also receive a medal for their involvement in the event!
$20 | eventbrite.com/e/earth-day-1m-5k-10k-131-262-save-2-tickets-800600486607
Earth Day Every Day on Langston Boulevard
April 21 | Lee Heights Shops | 4500 Cherry Hill Road, Arlington, VA 22207
This Earth Day festival has plenty of
activities for kids and parents alike.
Check out environmentally-themed books from The Library Truck, create art with the Arlington Artists Alliance and take part in a scavenger hunt meant to teach about Arlington’s green practices. Parents can learn more about environmentally-friendly organizations in the area and support local artists through the festival’s Art Market.
Free | earthdayonlangston.com
Jerome “Buddie” Ford Nature Center
5750 Sanger Ave. Alexandria, VA 22311
Spend a day at the Jerome “Buddie” Ford Nature Center and learn more about Virginia’s natural wildlife. Weekday activities include short story times on Wednesdays, Animal Brunch feeding time on Thursdays and Animal Meet & Greets with the center’s animal residents on Fridays. Done with the center? Explore the Dora Kelley Nature Park just outside and take a walk or bike ride on its one-mile nature trail.
Free | alexandriava.gov/NatureCenter
Montgomery County Recycling Center
16105 Frederick Road, Derwood, MD 20855
Want to get up close and personal with what happens to your recyclable trash after you take it out? A popular field trip destination, the Montgomery County Recycling Center offers both guided and self-guided tours that walk you through the recycling process. Learn how your paper and plastic waste gets put to good use when you’re done using it.
Free | montgomerycountymd.gov/sws/facilities/rc/tours.html
