TAMPA, Fla. — Earth Day is an annual event on April 22 to demonstrate support for the environment. It was first started in 1970, and the theme this year is “Planet vs. Plastics.”
EARTHDAY.ORG is demanding a 60% reduction in the production of all plastics by 2040. The goal of Earth Day is to raise awareness of the importance of conservation and sustainability.
There are many free events throughout the Tamp Bay area ahead of the day Monday and the week after. See a handful of them here:
Friday
Attendees can meet with the city’s division to review ongoing projects and upcoming plans at the Tarpon Springs Heritage Museum.
Saturday
Deuces Food Forest Garden Day - 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Participants can tour the food forest and learn about edible plants that grow in the area.
"Let’s Go Birding" at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve - 9 a.m. to noon
There are interactive and educational stations along the trails for guests to learn about birds and watch them
St. Pete Youth Farm 4th Annual Earth Day - 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The family-friendly event will have vendors, food and drinks, live music, a clothing swap, eco-fashion and art contests, a community compost drop-off and many other activities.
Campbell Park Cleanup - 9-10:30 a.m.
This is a monthly cleanup hosted by Keep Pinellas Beautiful. The organization has numerous volunteer opportunities throughout April and May.
Earth Day Educational presentation - 9 a.m. to noon
Listen to presenters talk about Earth Day while you shop for Florida-friendly plants at the UF/IFAS Hernando County Master Gardeners Nursery.
Sunday
108 Salutations for Earth Day - 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Yogis United is hosting an outdoor yoga session for free but donations will benefit Tampa Bay Waterkeeper. It will be at Williams Park in St. Petersburg and participants should bring a mat, snacks and a water bottle.
Walk for Water - 10 a.m.
This is a 3.7-mile walk to raise awareness to the global water crisis. It’s taking place along the RIverwalk at Armature Works and at the St. Pete Pier.
Water Street Market - 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
People can shop sustainably at this market with local food and wellness-focused vendors at the Market at Water Street.
Monday
Earth Day “Spring Cleaning” Swap - 3-7 p.m.
People can take their gently used household items and swap them at Williams Park. Women’s clothing, men’s clothing, kids' clothing, kids' toys and games, pet items, kitchen items, books and tools are among the items accepted.
Moana celebrates Earth Day - 5-6 p.m.
People ages 6-12 can do crafts, games and Earth Day-related activities at the Clearwater library.
Beach Cleanup - 5:30-8 p.m.
There will be a beach cleanup at Picnic Island Park ending with free sunset yoga.
Preservation talk - 6:30 p.m.
The Friends of Tampa Bay Aquatic Preserves is hosting an Earth Day and preservation of the planet discussion at the Clearwater Historical Society Museum and Cultural Center.
April 26
Pinellas Colid Waste Tour - 9:30 a.m.
The tour provides an overview of the county’s solid waste management system and educates people on what they can do to reduce waste.
April 27
Earth Week Cleanup - 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
All ages are welcome to participate in this event to keep the community clean and litter-free. Cleanup supplies will be provided and volunteers should meet at the Tangerine Plaza Parking Lot.
Greenthumb Festival - 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., April 27-28
The festival at Walter Fuller Park will have a variety of activities such as a flower show, tree sale, butterfly tent, environmental resources tent and more.
Composting tips 10-11 a.m.
Participants will learn about how to compost and the benefits at Crews Lake Wilderness Park in Spring Hill.