Earth Day Activities Are Sprouting Up

We'll probably all be elated to get outdoors and reconnect with Mother Nature this weekend after the recent snow spell, which works out wonderfully because it's Earth Day and there's plenty of outdoor enrichment to be had across Southwest Michigan.

We've rounded up all the best Earth Day and nature-rich events for you right here. For other kid-friendly "free" ideas, be sure to check out last year's Earth Day post.

SATURDAY, APRIL 21 Earth Day Celebration at KNC | Kalamazoo

Free admission to the Kalamazoo Nature Center and a 5K trail run/walk, Kids' Raccoon Run, crafts, nature playground, free trail hiking and more.

Earth Day at Robinette's | Grand Rapids

Free covered wagon tours, $1 cookie decorating, tree planting and more.

Earth Day Bingo at DeGraaf | Holland

Explore the trails for the sights, sounds and smells of nature and attempt to get a bingo. $2 per person.

Earth Day Kid Art at the Bailey Museum | South Haven

Make a unique painting using objects found in nature (with us!) and check out other activities and programs. Kids of all ages are welcome. Free.

Earth Day in the Lena Meijer Children's Garden | Grand Rapids

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park hosts an investigative walk, worm hunt, eco-friendly craft and stories, in addition to the tropical butterflies exhibit. Free with admission.

Kalamazoo Earth Day Festival | Kzoo

A full-day mega-celebration of the planet featuring live music, food, art and children's activities at Bronson Park.

Wildflowers at Sarett Nature Center | Benton Harbor

Take a walk through the trails and learn all about early spring wildflowers. $3 per person; free for kids and members.

5K Color Fun Run | Niles

A fun race for all ages at the Brandywine High School's cross country trail to benefit local schools.

FCCM Curious Nature Club: Rainbows | Fennville

Explore rainbows and create a spectroscope using ordinary household objects to see the colors of the rainbow at the Forever Curious Children's Museum. Free with admission.

Alligator Sanctuary Program | Portage

Learn about reptiles such as American alligators, lizards, tortoises and snakes, and meet them up close in Portage's Schier Park. Free.

APRIL 22

Earth Day at Fernwood Botanical Garden | Niles

Visitors can make and take a seed bomb to plant in their garden, learn about turtles at a Nature Station, and create a recycled craft. Free with admission.