Every April 22nd, Earth Day is celebrated globally as a reminder that from the soil that nourishes our food, to the water and air that gives us life, each and every one of us depends on Mother Earth to survive. More locally, here in Hudson County, there are so many ways you can contribute to the well-being of our planet. Though it may seem insignificant, taking part in small acts like community cleanups, recycling drives, planting trees, and shopping locally actually do make a significant difference in how our little corner of the planet can thrive. Keep reading for a list of how to celebrate Earth Day with family-friendly and eco-friendly events and happenings in and around Hoboken.
History of Earth Day
The first Earth Day was celebrated in 1970, when a Wisconsin state senator organized a national demonstration to raise awareness about environmental issues. Rallies took place across the country which led to the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency by the US government. By 1990, Earth Day was an event celebrated by more than 140 countries around the globe. In 2000, Earth Day focused on clean energy and involved hundreds of millions of people in 184 countries and 5,000 environmental groups. Today, the Earth Day Network collaborates with more than 17,000 partners and organizations in 174 countries. According to EDN, more than 1 billion people are involved in Earth Day activities, making it “the largest secular civic event in the world.”
Read More: A List of Eco-Friendly Businesses in North Jersey
Ways to Get Involved in the Local Community
Hudson County Earth Day 2023 — Jersey City: “Change Begins With Us” | Lincoln Park, Jersey City
April 22nd
Join the Hudson County Improvement Authority to celebrate Earth Day 2023, “Change Begins With Us.” At this family-friendly event, you can learn about the HCIA and initiatives to build a cleaner and more sustainable future.
Earth Day Celebration | New Weis Center for Education, Arts + Recreation, Ringwood
April 22nd
Spend the day forest bathing, journaling, learning about macroinvertebrates, taking a walk to learn about medicinal plants, going on a geology hike, and seeing 18 species of trees.
Earth Day Hike | Plainsboro Preserve, Cranbury
April 22nd
This free guided trail walk will explore the natural elements of the preserve.
Earth Day BioBlitz | Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge, Medford
April 22nd
A BioBlitz is an event that focuses on finding and identifying as many species as possible in a specific area over a short period of time. You’ll help count the plants, animals, birds, bugs, reptiles, fungi, and other organisms like bugs and reptiles.
Community Day: Celebrating Earth | The Newark Museum of Art, Newark
April 22nd
Honor the planet with a day full of artmaking, education, and performances that center around endangered animals, climate change, and farming. The interactive kid’s podcast, Noodle Loaf, will air traditional Lenape performances and demonstrations, planetarium shows, and music. Visit the Animal Kingdom on the third floor. Take part in animal origami, printmaking on muslin, fabric collages, Bon Appetit activities, and demos from Traditional Earth Skills. You get free admission to the museum, too, so catch a planetarium show.
Friends of High Point State Park Earth Day Celebration | High Point State Park, Sussex
April 22nd
There is birding, reptiles, yoga, a lake cleanup, family crafts, and more activities planned.
2023 Earth Day Celebration | Riverfront Park, Point Pleasant
April 22nd
There will be exhibits set up by businesses and nonprofits that support the environment.
Let’s Clean Our City! | 16th Street Park, Lower Level, Bayonne
April 22nd
The city-wide cleanup will be followed by an Earth Day celebration. Sign up with your family or a team.
Earth Day Clean-Up at Urban Souls Yoga | Sinatra Park, Hoboken
April 22nd
Head to Sinatra Drive, garbage bags in gloved hands, to spend the afternoon cleaning up the cherished Hoboken waterfront.
Earth Day Weekend Celebration | New Jersey Botanical Garden, Ringwood
April 22nd + 23rd
A number of special programs are planned to celebrate the beauty of nature.
Daffodil Festival + Earth Day Fair | Van Neste Square, Ridgewood
April 23rd
Interactive eco-themed activities include educational displays, demos, and crafts. The fair includes a petting zoo, a recycling magician, musical entertainment from the Blue Plate Special, and activities for kids. The highlight every year is the Daffy Dog Parade: all leashed dogs and their owners are welcome to dress in costume to win prizes.
Earth Day Celebration and Folk + Bluegrass Festival | 770 Jackson Plaza, Hoboken
April 23rd
This free, family-friendly, open-air event will showcase hyperlocal local businesses, fitness, green artisans, and engaging green and nature-themed activities for all ages. As a new addition, this year will feature the first NJ Folk + Bluegrass Music Festival showcasing the area’s talented musicians.
Spring Festival + Earth Day Celebration | Red Bank Battlefield
April 23rd
Join a day of family fun, including colonial games and crafts, a petting zoo, a sheepshearing demo, and a magic show.
See More: A Guide to Spring Festivals in New Jersey
Forest Defenders | Tenafly Nature Center, Tenafly
April 24th
Adults, teens and families who consider themselves to be environmentalists can learn about invasive species and how they toxify soil and harm native plants by identifying non-native plants and working with the land manager to find the best removal techniques.
To stay in the know on all local Montclair happenings, follow @themontclairgirl on Instagram and TikTok.
