Earth Day in the Twin Cities
We don’t get a planet B, and Earth Day is a great opportunity to offer a helping hand. Quickly approaching on April 22nd, there are tons of events and activities that you can take part in within the Twin Cities area. We are in a crisis when it comes to our climate, and Earth Day is the perfect time to highlight environmental justice.
Community Cleanups
Although you’re more than welcome to pick up trash around your area, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is organizing an annual Earth Day cleanup in multiple locations! This will take place on Saturday, April 23rd from 9:00am-noon. Bags and gloves will be provided, and registration isn’t necessary.
Here is a list of locations near campus:
Beltrami Park: 1111 Summer Street NE
Loring Park: 1382 Willow St.
Boom Island Park: 724 Sibley St. NE
Mill Ruins Park: 102 Portland Ave S
East River Flats Park: 351 East River Parkway
Minnehaha Falls: 4801 South Minnehaha Drive
Elliot Park: 1000 E 14th St.
Sumner Field Park: 901 Aldrich Ave. N
Father Hennepin Bluff Park: 100 6th Ave SE
West River Parkway: W River Pkwy & 36th
Clothing Swap
While spring cleaning, I’m sure some of us have some clothing that is ready to find a new home. The second Annual Earth Day Clothing Swap is taking place on April 23rd from 11:00am-5:00pm. You can swap out your wardrobe, or just donate! This is a great chance to fight fast fashion while helping those in need. The swap is being held in one of St. Paul’s beautiful historic buildings - the Creators Space and Cafe. Here is the address: 218 7th Street East Saint Paul, MN 55101
Earth Day Celebration
If you’re looking for the social scene, check out the Earth Day Celebration that’s taking place at George Floyd Square. This community event is being hosted by COPAL, and East Phillips Neighborhood Institute (EPNI). All sorts of activities and musical performances by local artists will be included in this celebration of our Earth. Gardening and crafts will be available for the younger crowd, as well as a concert featuring grassroots artists fighting for racial and environmental justice in Minneapolis. Not only that, but there will be Tamales and an opportunity to donate food to the Free Food Market!
Although the Twin Cities doesn’t fall short when it comes to organized events, you can always celebrate in ways that feel best to you! This may just mean spending some time outside. Go for a walk or a hike, have a picnic with friends, or visit a local park. Here are a few other ideas:
Make a compost pile
Plant a tree
Start a garden
Go for a bike ride
Visit a local farmers market