6 Ways to Celebrate Earth Day in Detroit

What started in 1970 as a day of education about environmental issues has become a globally celebrated holiday every April 22 — Earth Day! Today, it’s estimated that more than 1 billion people participate in Earth Day activities annually.

Show your support of Mother Earth in The D this year:

Explore Belle Isle

Belle Isle has a host of great things to explore, including the Dossin Great Lakes Museum, Belle Isle Aquarium and Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory. On April 22, check out the Belle Isle Nature Center, which is hosting a free Earth Day celebration that will include earth-friendly crafts, games, storytelling, zookeeper talks and exhibits by local conservation groups. Vehicles entering Belle Isle need a recreation passport. Entry, however, is free if you walk, bike or take public transportation onto the island.

Stroll the Detroit RiverWalk

Soak in the beauty of the Detroit River with a leisurely stroll along the RiverWalk. Be sure to stop at Rivard Plaza, Milliken State Park and the Outdoor Adventure Center along the way. Eastern Market is also just a short bike ride or walk from the RiverWalk via the Dequindre Cut and will be open from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. this Earth Day.

Earth Day Cleanup at Lake St. Clair Metropark

Litter, such as fishing line and plastic bags, is dangerous for wildlife — not to mention unsightly to park visitors. Help keep Lake St. Clair Metropark beautiful and safe for people and wildlife during this April 22 cleanup event. Lunch is included. Pre-registration is required. Call 586-463-4332.

GreenFest at the Detroit Zoo

Join the Detroit Zoo Green Team at the Green Games Gallery for earth-friendly activities, games and a community art project highlighting plastics in the environment. The April 22 event will also include exhibits by local conservation groups and artists providing tips and goods for keeping our planet a healthy place to live. Bring a cell phone for recycling to receive a reduced admission price of just $9.

MI Earth Day Fest

This free event in Downtown Rochester runs April 21-23 and will offer tons of green presentations, free yoga, health screenings, live entertainment, kids’ activities and more. To get there, park in any public lot and then walk one block east of Main Street on Third or Fourth Streets to Water Street.

Check out more outdoor activities in Detroit.