Every year, in the month of April (when spring is just really beginning here in Canada) there is a worldwide event that occurs.  Earthday was an idea which began in 1962 and has since grown to become one of the most recognizable environmental events we have today.  You can read the full history, as explained by the founder here.

Nowadays, Earthday can be considered a weeklong event, while the actual day, April 22 is when you will find the bulk of the major nation wide events occurring.  All sorts of interesting events happen over the course of this week.  Restoration and rehabilitation of natural areas are one thing you can expect to see.  Some groups head out to their local river, garbage bags and wheelbarrels in tow, and clean up every speck of trash some negligent people toss all over the place throughout the winter.  Other efforts may focus on tree planting in vacant lots, amoung various other events.

Some areas will hold Earth Day Festivals.  One example of a great Earth Day festival is the Indiana Earth Day Festival.  This is a free, outdoor festival that is held on the final Saturday of April each year.

“The Earth Day Indiana Festival combines 100 environmental and conservation exhibits with live music from some of Indiana’s best new bands, special activities for kids and good food. An estimated 23,000 people attended the 2008 Earth Day Indiana Festival. That’s the most visitors ever, and we’re still growing.” (from the earth day indiana website)

On a much smaller scale of things, there are also a number of activities that you can organize yourself to get into the mood of earthday and environemental stuff. For example, you could plan a hike with friends and family.  Maybe turn off all the lights and play some board games or cards.

Use your imagination and you can easily come up with some fun stuff to do on Earth Day this year!