40 Fun Ways to Celebrate Earth Day Throughout Earth Month

You don't have to be a kid to climb trees, but you may need to channel your inner child for a little while (and be willing to look a little silly as you rediscover your lost talents). Remember a few key safety points: find a tree with low branches and access points, test every branch to make sure it’s alive before resting your full weight on it, and resist the impulse to climb up to the top, as the branches there tend to be younger (and more fragile). Just take your time and keep close to the trunk (where the branches are sturdiest) and you should be fine. Once you get up there, kick back and enjoy the view!

If you love nature + adventures but haven't yet tried geocaching — well, what are you waiting for? Download the official geocache app, and hiking will never be the same (sorry not sorry!).  With varying levels of difficulty, this is a great activity for all ages — some geocaches are in big containers and easy to find spots, while others are so tiny they require a seriously good eye to catch. Be sure to carry some small treasures you won't mind leaving behind, and record your name on the included list to let other "cachers" know you've been by!

Just kidding! This tip is all about lighthearted fun — and no rocks will be harmed in the process. Head outdoors and gather a few rocks that have smooth surfaces (this will make them easier to paint). "Canvas" secured, set yourself up with nontoxic paints and have fun painting words, faces, patterns, or anything else you can think of. The world is truly your oyster here, so have fun with it! Want to share your art with the world? Leave your painted creations in places where others will be sure to find them, like well-traveled hiking trails, near the beach, around your city or town, or even on a friend's patio to brighten their day.

If you were a boy or girl scout, you may already know this tip, but it's a great party trick and even survival tool if you need to signal for help. So first things first: find an oak tree and collect a few acorn caps (often cast aside by squirrels after they consume the nuts). Then, make a V with your thumbs and hold the cap in your hands (with the top rim of it in the middle of the V). Put your top lip on your thumb nails and your bottom lip below your thumb knuckles, and blow! You may have to adjust your hold and angle to get it right, but you should end up with a surprisingly loud, high-pitched whistle!

If you're like us and LOVE trees, you may already be pretty good at identifying your favorite tree species. If not, pick up a local tree ID guide and see if you can identify the trees around your yard or along your favorite trail. Trees are most commonly ID'd by their bark, leaves, and buds. It's helpful to be proficient in all three points of ID so you'll be able to confidently ID throughout the year. If you'd prefer to learn in-person, sign yourself up for a tree ID walk with your local conservation organization!

Nothing says earth day like cleaning up trash in your local riverbanks, parks, and community areas. And with the right group, it can be fun! So volunteer for a clean-up, make sure you are properly attired (yard clothes, sun protection, thick gloves, and a sturdy pair of boots), and get cleaning! No events near you? Start your own! Encourage your friends and family to join you for a rewarding day that ends with a potluck or pizza to celebrate all that hard work.

Mushrooms are incredible beings, and there is much more to them than meets the eye. The part we see and think of as the mushroom, is called the "fruiting body". Beneath the soil surface, mushrooms have mycelium networks that can extend for several meters. Feeling intrigued? Mycologists love sharing about their favorite subject, so sign up for a mushroom walk near you. Prepare to have your socks knocked off when you learn about all the mushroom varieties that are growing around you!

Reach out to your local environmental organization to learn what species are invasive to your area, and how to properly ID them. You may also be able to join an invasive species pull to get some experience under your belt. While this sounds suspiciously like manual labor, there's an odd satisfaction to be found in yanking invasive species out of the ground — especially knowing you've reduced the competition pressure on native trees and shrubs.

Whether you want to plant native trees on your property, or prefer to leave the tree planting to us, this is a wonderful way to celebrate Earth Day. Because when it comes to protecting the climate, trees are the real OGs — and planting them has consistently ranked as a top climate change solution. After all, trees help clean the air we breathe and the water we drink, stabilize the soil to prevent erosion, provide habitat for biodiversity, absorb carbon, and so much more!

Channel your inner woodland creature and gather up fallen branches, leaves, flowers, and anything else that catches your eye. Once you've got a good collection, string or braid everything together to create a crown that would make Galadriel proud. To craft a sturdier piece, build a frame using a vine or metal circlet if you have one, then use that as a base for your creation. And hey, if this inspires an inpromptou photoshoot? Well, we won't judge!

Spring has sprung! Temperatures are rising and the sun’s rays are getting warmer, so there's no better time to line dry your clothes and get that fresh air dried scent! Why bother? Electric dryers are remarkably inefficient: an average load of laundry washed and dried in a conventional dryer emits about 5.3 lbs of carbon dioxide (CO2 equivalent) per full load. In comparison, a load washed and hang dried only emits around 1.5 lbs!

Head to a quiet spot and find yourself a comfortable place to sit (bring a blanket and your meditation cushion if you need to). Settle into lotus position or another comfortable position (you could even lay down) to meditate on the sounds and scents of nature. Breathe in the healing energy and vibrations of the natural world, and breathe out anything that is weighing on you. Do this for as long as you'd like — even just 5 minutes of meditation can do wonders for your state of mind!

Haul your bike out of storage for some springtime adventures! If you have a local rail trail, awesome. If not, hit up designated mountain biking trails to take in your local environment in a different way. Just don't forget that helmet! Mountain biking requires balance, agility and a good sense of humor when (not if) you hit rocks, roots and other impediments not found on groomed bike trails. We think it's worth it, though!

Visit a local farmers' market. Not only will you be supporting growers in your area, but buying local cuts out fossil-fuel intensive transport by air, land and sea. We guarantee the food will also be fresher, tastier, more sustainable, and way more nutritious. Bonus: by supporting local farmers, you’ll funnel dollars back into your local economy, which benefits you and your community. Alternatively, you can join a CSA or sign up for a local delivery service!

From towering evergreens to meandering streams, nature is there for us to lean on — we just have to open ourselves up to it. Forest bathing has many proven health benefits, such as reducing stress and anxiety and strengthening your immune system. Plus, it’s as simple as it gets: all you need is trees and time. So head to a forested area to take it all in. And keep in mind: the more natural the setting the better, as it will offer up more for your senses.

If your local lake or river is no longer frozen, then there's no time like the present to get out there and start paddling! Even if the water is too cold for swimming, there's nothing stopping you from enjoying the scenery from your boat! Just be sure to follow basic safety measures (inform someone of your plans, wear a life vest, apply plenty of sunscreen and pack plenty of snacks and drinks if you're planning to be out for a while)!

Gather a few friends or keep it simple and head outdoors for a solo yoga session. Just roll out your mat on a flat, tick-free spot and let your senses guide you through whatever poses feel right. This is a great opportunity to concentrate on mind-body wellness while connecting with the great outdoors. Bonus points if you can get to a local beach at sunrise or sunset for some nature-guided sun-moon yoga!

Next time there's a cloud-free night, grab a few blankets and a thermos filled with hot chocolate or tea, and snuggle up under the stars. Test your knowledge with a stargazer app, or just lay back and gaze upon the infinite mystery of the galaxies. We firmly believe the world would be a better place if more people stopped to look at the stars every once in a while. 

On Tuesday, April 23rd, the Full Pink Moon will be shining bright in the sky. For eons, humans have been following the phases of the moon, and this one feels like a pretty special opportunity to celebrate spring with a nourishing lunar infusion. Just place your favorite tea herbs in a clear mason jar, cover with pure water and lightly cap, and leave it under the light of the moon for a magical, healing infusion the next morning!

Find an insured and reputable local barn or trail riding service, make sure they take good care of their horses (and take your safety seriously), then prepare to enjoy nature like never before! They say the outside of a horse is good for the inside of a (wo)man, and we have to agree that there's something uniquely special about connecting with a being that's wired so differently from humans.

Whether you're starting seeds or purchasing veggie and herb starts, there's nothing quite like getting your hands in the dirt to feel connected to the earth. And the organic fruits, veggies and herbs you'll get out of the deal are pretty great, too! Don't have land to work? That's okay! Just a few pots on your patio,  balcony, or in a sunny window can yield a surprising amount of delicious food. Got kids? Gardening is a great way to teach them food autonomy and foster a connection to the land.

Head outside to your yard, local park, or forest (or beach if you're lucky!) and gather fallen twigs, leaves, pebbles, shells, blooms, and anything else that catches your eye. When you've collected a nice cache of stuff, create a beautiful nature mandala to relax your mind and delight your senses. You'll know when you're done. And don't forget: it should be fun, not perfect!

Showcase the bounty of local farms with a spring-themed farm-to-table dinner in your backyard! Have everyone dress up a little bit, bring out a folding table, and set it as if you're at a fine restaurant. Your family and friends will surely appreciate the chance to get dressed up and enjoy a uniquely delicious, sustainable meal in the great outdoors. 

Depending on your local ordinances and rainfall, you may be able to collect rain to help water your garden without jacking up your water bill. You can either purchase one that's made with eco-friendly materials or go the DIY route and retrofit an old, clean barrel or garbage can with a lid, a spigot and a downspout. It may take a little bit of time to set up, but it'll be worth it in the long term!

If you're lucky enough to live in an area with natural waterfalls, act like a tourist and take a local waterfall tour! What does this mean? Make yourself an itinerary and plan to hit at least 3 waterfalls within an hour drive from your home. Pack a picnic basket with tasty food and beverages, and be sure to have your phone or camera ready for epic waterfall shots!

This one is as simple as it gets, but it's a great way to relax your mind by working with your hands and focusing intently on one element of your surrounding environment. Just head to your nearest body of water, find some flat-ish rocks, and stack them as high as you can! Leave it when you go, so that others can appreciate your handiwork or even add to it!

The verdict is in: scavenger hunts are great fun for adults and kids alike! Take the traditional route and hide objects in the woods or have your own mini bioblitz! The person who correctly identifies the most plants wins bragging rights and a fun eco prize. It's a great way to get everyone outside, and a little healthy competition never hurt anyone!

Grab binoculars and a local birding guide and head outside for some good old fashioned bird watching. See which species you can identify based on their songs, physical features, and activities. You might be surprised to see what your feathered neighbors are up to!

Rent or borrow a projector to bring the latest movies to a backyard near you! Invite a few friends, and make it extra special for any kiddos (and let's be real, adults too!) with cozy seating, popcorn, candy, and other favorite snacks.

Sharpen your macro photography skills and take note of the tiny details that comprise the world around you. When seen up close, everything from a tuft of moss to an ephemeral violet bloom can spark your imagination and inspire a sense of wonder. As they say, it's the little things!

Pack a healthy meal prepared with local ingredients, a bottle of organic wine and some reusable flatware, and head to your favorite nature spot for a lovely springtime meal. Spring is a great time to picnic, especially if you can do it before the biting insects come out in full force. Listen closely to the sounds of nature and soak up all the energizing spring vibes!

This one is great for kids, but there's nothing preventing you from doing it, too! Spring is the perfect time to indulge in some whimsical fun, so channel your inner woodland fairy and collect twigs, stones, moss, pinecones, and any other fallen materials you find to create a sweet little fairy house that surely will make you (and everyone else) smile every time you see it!

Sometimes the simplest things mean the most, and playing a game of catch is no exception. Whether you have a canine or human companion (or both!), it's a great way to get everyone outside and enjoying the springtime weather. And if you don't come inside with an ear-to-ear grin, then you probably need to spend some more time playing!

Depending on where you are, if the ground is thawed, it's the perfect time to set up a compost pile! Want step by step directions on how to start composting? Check out our free composting guide!

With native plants, that is! Seed bombs are simple to make and oh so fun to disperse. Just be sure the seeds are truly native and appropriate to plant where you spread them.  

Even if just in your own backyard, a night spent sleeping under the stars can do wonders for your mood and outlook. So find a quiet spot, grab whatever you need to be comfortable, and enjoy a restorative night in the great outdoors!

Support your local environment by planting native, pollinator-friendly flowers and herbs — either in containers on your balcony or directly in the ground in your backyard. The birds and the bees will thank you!

A dirty air filter can reduce your fuel economy by up to 10%. Read your vehicle's user manual to determine what type of filter you need and how to change it out. And don’t be intimidated! This is a quick fix that anyone can do regardless of mechanical skill level!

Most landfills won’t accept tires, but retailers that recycle them should be happy to take them off your hands. Some tire shops will also recycle them, but for a fee. You could also get creative and upcycle them into tire swings, dog beds and more.

With warmer weather comes renewed energy and a desire for a fresh start. For many of us, that means organizing and deep cleaning our living spaces, taking stock of our physical environment, and making adjustments that can help us feel less encumbered in our day to day lives. In other words: it's time for some good old fashioned spring cleaning!