For over 50 years, the world has come together to celebrate Earth Day; an annual event focused on demonstrating support for environmental protection. First held on April 22, 1970, it now includes a wide range of events coordinated globally and observed by 1 billion people in more than 193 countries.

 

Here in Montgomery County, there are plenty of ways to get outside and celebrate Earth Day. Experience the joy of Earth Day at any of our beautiful parks and nature centers, 90+ miles of trails, and community events!

Get to the Trails

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Sign up for the Montco Trail Challenge and explore the many miles of trails that crisscross Montgomery County. Discover what makes each one unique as you travel through scenic small towns, quaint villages, and vibrant downtowns.

Ready to compete? This Earth Day weekend you can ensure your progress in the Montco Trail Challenge by signing up for Huntingdon Valley's Earth Day Trail Race.

Bird Watching at the John James Audubon Center

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Bird on a branch at John James Audubon Center

Looking to get outside and experience the wonders of nature this spring? Let your curiosity take flight at the John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove. Join them on April 21 for an Earth Day celebration featuring bird walks, kids’ activities, partner organizations, canoe rides, and more! Stop by their Native Plant Sale from 12pm to 4pm to invest in Earth by planting native plants for birds and pollinators. Connect with nature and discover the world of birds through dynamic exhibits for all ages and learning abilities. The grounds are open from dusk till dawn, so visitors of all ages can relax and be at one with nature.

 

Visit Valley Forge National Historical Park

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Valley Forge National Historical Park Spring 2021 Shot by Dylan Eddinger, who was hired for a freelance project.

What better day to get outside than Earth Day? Montgomery County is home to some of the region's best parks, including the world-famous Valley Forge National Historical Park. With 7 miles of paved trail, wide-open spaces, and historical monuments, Valley Forge National Historical Park is one of the best spots in Montgomery County to spend a day outdoors. Whether you visit with your dog, stroll with friends, or have a picnic with your family make sure you Leave No Trace, and place all trash in the proper cans before you leave.

 

For more information on Valley Forge National Historical Park, click here.

 

Earth Day Festivals and Celebrations

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EPZ Summer Campaign scene

Get ready to celebrate at one of the Earth Day festivals and celebratory events happening across Montgomery County this weekend. Kick off your weekend at Upper Merion's Earth Day Festival featuring food trucks, green demos and vendors, and more!

The fun doesn't stop there, bring your family and friends to Norristown for Elmwood Park Zoo's Party for the Planet, happening April 20 - 21! The family-friendly event features a variety of fun demonstrations and education stations. The party is free to attend with zoo admission.

Community Clean Up Events

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Community Clean up in Victory Park

One of the core components of Earth Day is volunteer work and community service, and Montgomery County is proud to participate! Head out to Royersford the Saturday before Earth Day to help clean up Victory Park and the surrounding areas. Volunteers will be provided trash bags, all you need to do is arrive early for the 10 a.m. clean up! Free yoga will take place prior to the clean up, if interested be sure to BYOM (bring your own mat) and enjoy a zen moment in nature.

 

Looking for more volunteer opportunities? Volunteer for the 55th Annual Wissahickon Creek Clean-Up on Saturday, April 27th. This is the perfect outdoor event to show your support and love for a clean Wissahickon watershed.

 

Recycling Events

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Ready to get rid of old documents and electronic waste? Upper Merion Township will be hosting a drive thru recycling event on Sunday, April 21. Limitations apply, some e-waste recycling may have a cost.

eclipse glasses reycling

For anyone looking to discard their eclipse glasses from the recent solar eclipse, Lower Merion Township will be collecting glasses at the Township Library until Friday, April 26. All donated glasses will go directly to Astronomers Without Borders.

Dog-Friendly Fun

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dog smiling in the KOP town centerMontco is an incredibly pet-friendly destination. Home to 20+ pet-friendly hotels, a plethora of dog-friendly seating restaurants, and designated dog parks, we're ready to welcome your furry friends with open arms. Our blend of pet-friendly establishments and wide-open spaces are the perfect place for your pets to run, play, and rest right by your side. Make this Earth Day one your best friend will never forget by getting out and staying over!

 

Educational Events

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Not only is Earth Day a day centered around community giving, it's also a great time to learn about our environment. This year, Ants on a Log will be performing a family-friendly educational concert at the Riverbend Environmental Education Center. Their positivity and harmonic humor makes for a great way to start your Saturday morning!

In Lansdale, the Peter Wentz Farmstead will be hosting a Sheep Shearing Day on April 20, where guests will learn firsthand from farmers about the "wool to wardrobe" process.

On April 22, the Montgomery County - Norristown Public Library will be hosting an after school program for families with children ages 5+. Parents and children will get a chance to make their own planters out of newspapers, plant spring seeds, and make clay impressions of found materials.

 

Ride a Bike Around Montco

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Valley Forge Park Bike Tour

In addition to the 96 miles of trails spread throughout Montco, our trails are easily accessible to bike riders. Whether you're looking for a leisurely ride along a quiet trail or a blood-pumping workout, Montgomery County's vast expanse of trails are perfect for your next biking adventure.