Earth Day was founded by Senator Gaylord Nelson in 1970 to promote ecology and respect for life on the planet as well as to encourage awareness of the growing problems of air, water and soil pollution. The global theme for Earth Day 2013 is “The Face of Climate Change,” “Many people think climate change is a remote problem, but the fact is that it’s already impacting real people, animals, and beloved places all over the world, and these Faces of Climate Change are multiplying every day,“ said Kathleen Rogers, president of Earth Day Network. Each year, more than one billion people participate in Earth Day-related activities, making it the largest civic observance in the world. On and around April 22, communities across approximately 192 countries voice their concerns for the planet and take action to protect it.
On Earth Day, take a day for relaxation and earthly indulgences. Make sure you go outside, breathe the fresh air and take a brisk walk or leisurely stroll. All that Mother Nature has to offer is right outside your door!
Here are some great Earth Day activities:
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Long Island Children's Museum
Our Changing World—Earth Day Celebration Sunday, April 21 from noon–3 p.m. -
Long Pond Greenbelt Nature Center
Paddle in Long Pond as you look and listen for signs of spring in celebration of Earth Day! Friday, April 19 from 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. -
Leeds Pond Preserve
Plant a tree to help the woodlands recover from Superstorm Sandy and meet animals that live at the museum. Saturday, April 20 from noon-3 p.m. -
Garvies Point Museum and Preserve
Paper making activity. Make a bookmark, a card, a beautiful piece of artwork, or just be creative using our recycled paper! Saturday, April 20 from 11 a.m.- 3 p.m. -
Long Island Game Farm
Go Green at the Game Farm-Children will learn to make their own rain sticks and can participate in an Earth Day scavenger hunt as they travel throughout the Game Farm looking for clues. Saturday, April 20 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. -
Nassau County Museum of Art
Families are invited to help create a gigantic group sculpture using recycled materials with artists. Sunday, April 21 from 1 p.m.-4 p.m. -
Long Island Science Center
Earth Day Celebration! Learn about Going Green, Conservation, and preserving our amazing planet! Receive a tree seedling. Saturday, April 21 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. -
Earth Run
Garden City Bird Sanctuary Sunday, April 21 at 10 a.m. Families are invited to come and cheer on the runners, walk the 9- acre sanctuary and enjoy the festivities. -
Earth Day Wildlife Presentation
Cold Spring Harbor Whaling Museum Sunday, April 21 at 2 p.m.
In honor of Earth Day, kids will learn all about furry, scaly and feathery friends that make up some of Long Island’s local wildlife. -
Quogue Wildlife Refuge
This event sponsored will include guided nature walks, live animal presentations, crafts for children, environmental exhibitors, and self-guided kayaking and canoeing on Old Ice Pond. Saturday, April 20 from 11a.m. -3p.m.