Earth Day is upon us, and the next few days are rich with fun events and activities for families. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite green happenings around the city–we can’t think of a better way to introduce your kids to green values.
Earth Day In Times Square
The lights of Times Square illuminate booths designed to raise awareness of environmental issues in celebration of the 40th anniversary of Earth Day. Also hear government officials, business leaders and entertainers dedicated to making the world greener. Details: Public Plaza between 42nd and 43rd streets, Thursday, 4/22, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., earthdayny.org.
Grand Central Earth Fair (Outdoors)
Visit Vanderbilt Avenue for a two-day art, music and environmental celebration. In addition to the festivities, expect exhibits that are both educational and interactive. Details: Friday, 4/23, noon to 7 p.m., Saturday, 4/24, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Grand Central Earth Fair (Indoors)
Head to Grand Central’s Vanderbilt Hall and check out the substantive displays featured during this week-long exhibition. Details: Through Saturday 4/24.
Earth Day Celebration, Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Stop by the Brooklyn Botanic Garden after school and celebrate our earth by potting your own plant to take home! Details: Thursday, 4/22, 3 p.m.-5 p.m., bbg.org.
Still Hip Grand Earth Day Block Party
The Clinton Hill children’s consignment shop and community gathering place hosts a celebration featuring nine performers (including Audra Rox and funk band LIG) and the chance to win a free photo session with photographer Carlos Saavedra. Plus, the DOT will distribute free bike helmets and the FDNY will free distribute coloring books and smoke alarm batteries! Details: Saturday, April 24, 11 a.m.-8 p.m., free. Grand Avenue between Lafayette and Clinton, Brooklyn, stillhipbrooklyn.com.
Arbor Day Celebration, Alley Pond Environmental Center
Commemorate Arbor Day by putting down roots in the city—make a lasting impact by planting trees and shrubs at Alley Pond. Details: Saturday, 4/24, 10 a.m., alleypond.com.
Earth Fest, Pelham Bay Park
Head to the Pelham Bay Park in the Bronx for a day of performances, demonstrations and exhibits celebrating environmental responsibility at Earth Fest! Details: Sunday, 4/19, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., nycgovparks.org.
Nature in the Garden Discovery Walk, Wave Hill
More than a scenic stroll! Knowledgeable naturalists lead tours through Wave Hill’s woodlands and gardens as part of their Nature in the Garden Discovery Walk. Details: Sunday, 4/25, 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m., wavehill.org.
Nature Crafts Workshop, Prospect Park
Kids will use natural and recycled materials to create fun nature crafts at Prospect Park. Details: Ongoing Saturdays and Sundays, 1 p.m.-3 p.m., prospectpark.org.
Children’s Gardening Program, New York Botanical Garden
Join the Children’s Gardening Program at New York Botanical Garden and your kids will have a blast getting their hands dirty in their very own garden plot. Details: Ongoing through November, nybg.org.
Rockin’ Earth Day Fest, Columbia University
Celebrate Earth Day with live music, children’s art workshops, and environmental exhibits and activities – from garden tables to organic cotton t-shirts. Details: Sunday 4/25, 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Teachers College Russell Courtyard, West 120th Street, columbia.edu.
Earth Day Eco-Fair, NYU Stern School
Make your Earth-Day more worth-while by visiting local vendors with sustainable and environmentally friendly products at the Eco-Fair. Vendors will include flowers, jewelry, clothing, ice cream and more! Learn about green products and services and find out how you can continue to buy sustainably. Details: Thursday 4/22, noon-6 p.m., Gould Plaza at Stern School of Business, 44 West 4th Street, nyustern-sea.campusgroups.com.
