How To Celebrate Earth Day In The DMV
Lifestyle
April isn’t just about sunshine and soaring temps — it’s also the month of Earth Day, an annual celebration of the environment that reinforces our responsibility to protect the planet’s natural resources for future generations to come. Wondering how you can get involved?
Here are some of the best ways to celebrate Earth Day in DC this year.
#1 The Yards Earth Day Movie Night: The Wild Robot | April 18th: Based on the beloved book, this heartwarming adventure follows a robot who unexpectedly finds itself in nature, learning to live in harmony with the wild. Gather under the stars on The Yards Sundeck for a movie night that will remind you of the beauty and resilience of our planet. Make it a true picnic experience by picking up dinner to-go from your favorite Yards restaurant, and grab a scoop from Ice Cream Jubilee to enjoy during the film. Don’t forget to bring your blankets and chairs for a cozy night outdoors!
#2 A Day Unplugged | April 19th: Step away from your screens and reconnect with nature at an Earth Day Celebration: A Day Unplugged! Join your fellow earth-enthusiasts at the Anacostia Community Museum for a fun-filled, educational day celebrating the beauty of our planet with hands-on activities for all ages.
Looking for a list of fun events happening in DC this spring? Click here to check out our selection of 2025 spring festivals.
#3 Earth Day Family Festival | April 20: Join the National Portrait Gallery and the Smithsonian American Art Museum to learn how art and science can help protect the earth. Attendees of all ages can take part in nature-themed activities, and there will be face painting for children 12 and under. Meanwhile, a scavenger hunt in the galleries features works from both museums that highlight the Earth’s natural wonders and the various ways artists help care for our planet.
#4 GWRCCC Earth Day 5K | April 19th: This just in: The Greater Washington Region Clean Cities Coalition (GWRCCC) is charging forward in its mission to expand the use of alternative and renewable energy while helping the public understand how to build a more sustainable future. As part of that effort, the coalition will host its first-ever Earth Day 5K and Green Expo on April 19 at 10 AM, right on the National Mall in front of the US Capitol.
As participants walk, experts from government, industry, and nonprofits will be on hand to showcase products and strategies aimed at reducing carbon emissions through clean energy and advanced tech. With transportation ranking among the top sources of greenhouse gas emissions, GWRCCC is shining a spotlight on the issue and bringing actionable solutions to the community members like you.
➤ Do you love spring in DC just as much as we do! Here’s some more inspiration for ways to enjoy the season:
- Things to Do in DC this April
- Where To Play Pickleball In DC
- Where To See The Cherry Blossoms In And Around DC
- Why Spring is the Best Time for Runners in DC
#5 Anacostia Riverkeeper Clean Waterways Cleanup | April 19th: Following efforts from federal and District governments to mitigate risks to its water quality, the Anacostia River finally received a passing grade on the 2024 State of the River Report– a feat that has only occurred four times in the last seven years.
Since 2008, Anacostia Riverkeeper has combined advocacy, community outreach and research to help ensure a healthy river fit for swimming and fishing. To continue that legacy, on April 19, the organization will host a river cleanup at Kenilworth Park starting at 10 AM. The event will take place regardless of the weather, and participants are encouraged to wear closed-toed shoes and attire they don’t mind staining.
#6 National Park Week: Love national parks? Show up during National Park Week, happening April 19 to April 27, to celebrate everything “parks.” There are more than 400 national parks of different shapes, sizes, and kinds to experience — including nearby Great Falls Park, Prince William Forest Park, and Harpers Ferry National Historical Park (to name just a few). While you’re out adventuring, stop and take a few minutes to learn what the National Park Service does to preserve natural & cultural heritage as well as provide recreational opportunities in communities across the country — and even the world!
➤ Looking for more ways to soak up the spring in DC? Here are a few more posts:
#7 Earth Day at Quiet Waters Park | April 22nd: To promote environmental consciousness across generations, the University of the District of Columbia (UDC) College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability, & Environmental Sciences will host a family-friendly celebration on Earth Day at the East Capitol Urban Farm, emphasizing the impact of collective action on sustainable practices. Attendees will be able to witness tree planting demos, a crucial initiative to reach the District’s goal of increasing the city’s tree canopy from 35% to 40% by 2032.
Thinking about making moves in between your Earth Day activities? We’d be happy to help! Give us a call at 202.280.2060 or email us directly at jsmira@jennsmira.com.
