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Earth Day has been celebrated since 1970, and every year the message gets more powerful: We can collectively help keep our planet on track for a greener and healthier future if we put in the work. In many places, the energy behind this movement is so considerable that Earth Month is celebrated instead — and Pittsburgh is bursting at the seams with Earth Month activities this year.
Learning about the plants, animals, and resources here in Pennsylvania can help us understand how human activities impact our environment and what changes we can make to preserve this rich world for the future. Fortunately, all Earth Month activities around town make it easy to learn, connect, and join forces to protect this planet we call home.
Get Hands-on With Earth Science
Learning about the world around us is meaningful, especially when you see firsthand how your actions can positively affect the environment. Earth Month is an excellent time to dive into science education around town. Take the whole family to the Carnegie Science Center’s H2Oh! exhibit for a fascinating look at our rivers and water use. Try your hand at making rain, get a glimpse of real-time water filtration, and see some river animals up close and personal!
If you’re ready to make a difference at home, head to the Botanic Garden and learn about water-saving landscapes, how to take care of seedlings, and so much more!
Volunteer with Park Rangers
Ready to roll up your sleeves and help keep Pennsylvania green and clean? Earth Month is the perfect time to jump into volunteering at local and state parks. There’s always something to do to prepare our public lands for warmer weather. Allegheny County Parks sponsor several different cleanup crews on April 22. These are free events, but be sure to grab a spot and register ahead of time!
If you’re excited to get further from town and enjoy our state parks, head to one of several volunteer events sponsored by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources throughout April. Most events are family-friendly and free, but check registration early to secure your spot.
Hang Out with Wildlife
Kids, families, and even adults love to hang out with our wild friends as the weather warms up. April is the best time to reacquaint yourself with the wonders of our diverse planet in celebration of Earth Month. Head to the Pittsburgh Zoo during Electronic April and enjoy free daytime admission when you trade in your small electronics to recycle.
For fun on Earth Day itself, the zoo will be bursting with Wild Earth Day activities and special events. If you’re looking for something less crowded (but perhaps more colorful!), head to the National Aviary for a scavenger hunt, crafts, and plenty of stunning birds!
Stay Virtual
Looking to stay inside? No problem. You can celebrate our vibrant planet from home with virtual events and information that will connect you with other enthusiastic protectors across the state. The University of Pittsburgh’s sustainability community is sponsoring several webinars throughout the month to help you go green at home and work.
Don’t miss Pitt’s Celebrating Earth playlist, either! You can rock out to inspirational songs all month long (perfect as a soundtrack for gardening or DIY recycling projects). Prefer more talk, fewer tunes? Check out the Dirt Podcast developed by Pittsburgh Earth Day for innovative advice on sustainable business and living.
Soak Up the Sunshine and Celebrate!
Earth Month is ultimately about our collective dedication to protecting the world around us. What better way to feel united and powerful than by celebrating together as a community? Every Saturday in April, Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy hosts Earth Month activities at a different park around town. Enjoy crafts, games, and nature with family and friends.
For the ultimate community celebration, plan time for all the events that Pittsburgh Earth Day has in store. Help honor the efforts of local businesses, community organizations, and everyday people who move Pittsburgh toward a sustainable future.
The main event on April 22 features a Tailgate Tour full of food, fun, and fascinating facts across town. Kids will love the projects and music, while adults can learn how to help power the future with cleaner energy from on-site Duquesne Light Co. team members. Show off your Zumba moves in Market Square, listen to live local bands, and get inspired by “The Chalking Dad” and his amazing artwork.
You’ll end the day feeling empowered to help Pittsburgh celebrate sustainability every day, not just during April.
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