10 Ideas For Celebrating Earth Day This Year

One of our favorite holidays is steadily approaching — this year, Earth Day falls on April 22. Our home planet is certainly deserving of many celebrations, and, as the saying goes, technically every day should be Earth Day. But on April 22, there are tons of options for celebrating, whether it involves staying in and partaking in a relaxing activity or getting out and exploring the world. Here are ten fun ideas for celebrating Earth Day this year:

1. Host a picnic.

Public parks (or even backyards) are fantastic venues for picnicking and enjoying the splendor nature has to offer. Whether you gather with friends or family, picnics are fun and kid-friendly activities that remind us just how amazing sitting out in the sunshine is. Of course, remember to pack in and pack out — and if possible, try bringing your food in eco-friendly packaging and containers (like these adorable dish covers!)

2. Have an Earth documentary movie night.

Yes, you can marvel at the Earth’s wonders without actually leaving your house. Check out Netflix’s array of nature documentaries that will transport you far and wide (if you need personal recommendations, we’re huge fans of My Octopus Teacher and Dancing with the Birds!).

3. Stargaze.

Earth Day typically corresponds with the peak of the Lyrid meteor shower, which spits out an impressive 18 fast, bright meteors every hour during its peak. This option is best if you’re able to get away from city lights, but don’t be disappointed if you don’t see anything. Meteor watching has been compared to fishing: you just go out and enjoy the cool night air — sometimes you’ll catch something, other times you won’t.

Photo by Greg Jeanneau

4. Create a nature scavenger hunt.

For those with kiddos, a nature scavenger hunt is both a fun and educational way to get outside and learn about the surrounding environment. All you have to do is create a list of items to collect (coming up with a cool prize doesn’t hurt, either!), and you’re set to start adventuring.

5. Consider investing in renewables or other green initiatives.

We’ll admit that this option sounds considerably less exciting than a scavenger hunt, but it may just pay off in the long run. Investing in sustainable companies, whether they’re in the energy sector, transportation, or technology, provides those organizations with funds to continue advancing their eco-friendly initiatives.

6. Turn your candle tumbler into a succulent planter.

You can reuse your Slow North candle tumbler in a variety of ways! One of our favorites is turning it into an upcycled succulent planter. Make sure to give your tumbler a good cleaning with hot water before hand. You'll also want to add a layer of rocks at the bottom for extra drainage. Next add a succulent-friendly potting mix and arrange 2 - 3 mini succulents for a cute + creative upcycled planter!

7. Explore Virtual Tours of our National Parks

This one is for both kids & adults: check out these seven gorgeous parks by exploring coral reefs in Florida, rafting down the Colorado River, or go trekking over icebergs in Alaska- all in an afternoon! 

8. Create an Earth Day recycled city.

Future builders of the household can flex their creative muscles and learn about the importance of recycling by building a city from recycled objects. Whatever you can find in your recycle bin — cans, bottles, paper, et cetera, is fair game — have fun with it and see what you can build!

9. Peruse your local farmer’s markets and cook a locally-sourced, organic meal.

Local, organic food is not only better for the planet but also generally tastier. Bon
appétit!

10. Take a hike (IRL).

This is the classic Earth Day activity, but it’s worth putting on the list: just getting outside and walking through nature does wonders for the mind and body.