Get outside, NYC! Earth Day is just around the corner. As the seasons turn, there are many ways to celebrate Earth Day this year on Wednesday, April 22nd. From weed walks around Prospect Park to book swaps in Union Square, New York City is seriously going green in celebration of Mother Nature. We’ve rounded up the best activities, events, and displays of inspiration coming up in the following week. Check out our list below, then turn off that computer and get out there!
Earth Day at Union Square
Kicking off the celebration on Sunday, April 19, Union Square Park will host New York’s 25th Annual Earth Day. Start your spring cleaning early by participating in the book swap or by recycling old textiles and electronics at the event’s receptacles. There will also be demonstrations from environmental campaigns and nonprofit groups to teach attendees about sharing economies and living in a more eco-friendly environment. For more information, visit Earth Day NYC.
Earth Day at Prospect Park
Perfect for the little ones, Earth Day at Prospect Park will land at the park’s historic boathouse on Saturday, April 18th. Visitors can engage in a number of activities, from coming face to face with birds of prey or learning about catch-and-release fishing. There is also a group cleaning of the lakeshore, where attendees can spread mulch and learn how to keep parks healthy. The day will end in a group jam session of instruments made of reused materials. Don’t miss out! For more information, visit NYC Parks.
5K Walk and Green Tour
Hosted by the organization Earth Day NYC, the 5k Walk and Green Tour event will bring together volunteers to raise funds for environmental programs and learn about green places in NYC. This fun event is essentially a 5k with a twist; teams of volunteers will walk from site to site, scavenger hunt style, learning about green places all over NYC. The day culminates in a picnic lunch for all volunteers. Learn more and get involved via Earth Day NY.
Green Festival at the Javits Center
This three-day festival takes place from April 24-26th at the remarkable Javits Convention Center. Over the course of the weekend, 300+ exhibitors will gather to showcase educational demonstrations, eco-friendly services, and earth-conscious products. Foodies, rejoice; there will be a vast selection of organic, vegetarian, vegan and non-GMO food items available as well. For more information, visit Green Festivals.
The Seed: MARKET at the Altman Building
In celebration of Earth Month, the Seed Market has prepared a special program on April 18th. Partnering with the charity GrowNYC, the market will offer yummy, new, and amazing foods, as well as various drinks and products from local businesses. A number of speakers and chefs will share their expertise on working with a plant-based, cruelty-free and eco-friendly lifestyle, delighting attendees with sips and snacks. There will also be a morning yoga session for those interested. For more information, visit The Seed Experience.