There is so much to do for Earth Day in Chicago! Pretty much every park is hosting a clean-up, planting session, or invasive species removal. Nature centers are celebrating with educational events and parties. In addition, some communities are hosting recycling events and neighborhood associations are getting in on the action with exciting events. Take a look at the many options below or plan something with friends, like plogging around your favorite park!
What to Do for Earth Day in Chicago
Adler Planetarium Earthfest offers a wide range of special events included with admission during the weekend. April 13, 2019.
Chicago Botanic Gardens is hosting their first weekend-long Unearth Science Festival. April 13 and 14.
The Morton will host a Champion of the Trees 10K on April 14 and host several events during Arbor Day weekend, April 26.
The Chicago Park District is planning a busy day with activities at many parks around Chicago. Dates vary.
Party for the Planet at Brookfield Zoo includes demonstrations, chats, recycling, and more. April 13 and 14.
Families can recycle anything from prom dresses to household papers to batteries and fluorescent lights at Skokie’s annual Spring Greening on April 14. Oak Park goes even bigger with their Earth Fest on April 27, which is a recycling event and a community celebration. SWANCC, the Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County, offers tips for hosting a recycling-themed Earth Day event of your own.
The Heller Nature Center in Highland Park will celebrate on April 22.
Friends of the Parks (Chicago) will be hosting area-wide clean-ups on April 27.
Emily Oaks Nature Center in Skokie will celebrate on April 28.
Adopt a Beach on Earth Day or any time of year with the help of this guide from the Great Lakes Alliance.
Cook County Forest Preserve is hosting clean-ups and Earth Day celebrations at sites around the county.
Lake County Forest Preserve is planning several Earth Week events. Search their site for details.
Will County Forest Preserve has a variety of clean-up and other opportunities.
Friends of the Parks provides a comprehensive list of cleanup sites with links to register online as a volunteer.
Make an Earth Day Pledge
Regardless of whether you celebrate in a park, your backyard, or even if April allergies keep you inside, Earth Day is a great time to make a family pledge to adopt a green habit, like committing to reusable straws, banning plastic utensils, or using less toilet paper(!).
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