Earth Day is April 22nd — and it’s more than just a date on the calendar. It’s a chance to come together as a community and make a meaningful impact on the world around us. Here in Hunterdon, there are countless ways to get involved — from joining local park cleanups and tree plantings to supporting small, eco-conscious businesses and attending sustainability-focused events. Even the simplest actions can make a difference. Here are a few easy, impactful ways to help protect our planet and keep our community thriving.

Earth Day 10K & Mountain Bike Race

April 25, 9 am
Washington Crossing State Park, NJ

The 4th Annual Earth Day 10K has moved to the weekend. New this year, they added a mountain bike race. The course is a mix of short single track trails, fields and park roads. Don’t miss the after party at Patriots Crossing Tavern (1.5 miles from the start finish). Each participant and volunteer will receive a ticket for a free beer or glass of wine. A tree will be planted in the park to celebrate Earth Day and benefits the Washington Crossing Park Association. The race starts & ends at the Phillips Farm Day Use Area.

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Earth Day Event: The Extraordinary Caterpillar

April 19, 3 pm
25 S Union St, Lambertville, NJ

About the Film: Over 98% of the living world on Earth is smaller than a bee. Yet humans view the planet as a world centered around themselves. Landscapes are deconstructed to suit human needs, often with little regard for the natural systems that sustain the food web. The Extraordinary Caterpillar follows the scientists and community activists with this peek into the dazzling world of nature’s tiniest superheroes. After the film, join for a discussion with Lambertville Goes Wild and Mary Anne Borge.

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Earth Day Festival

April 18, 9:30 am – 2:30 pm
Echo Hill Park, 42 Lilac Drive, Lebanon, NJ

Celebrate Earth Day with the Division of Parks & Recreation’s 22nd Earth Day event! Help us celebrate the one, the only, Planet Earth! Meet live animals with Rizzo’s Wildlife World at 11:00 AM. Enjoy a high-energy musical experience with recycled instruments with Bash the Trash at 1:30 PM. Both of our educational presentations are sponsored by Hunterdon County Clean Communities. All day, meet animals and do other activities with local 4-H clubs. Make and take home a recycled or natural craft. Visit the tables of local environmental organizations to find out what they do. See what critters live in the stream (bring water shoes or boots), and try out casting a fishing line.

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Paint & Grow Earth Day Craft | Hunterdon County Library

April 22, 3-5 pm
1108 Old York Rd, Ringoes, NJ

Drop into the library to celebrate Earth Day by making seed balls and painting flowerpots. Open to all ages, while supplies last. This program is generously sponsored by FOHCL, Friends of the Hunterdon County Library.

SMALL, INTENTIONAL STEPS WITH A BIG IMPACT

Spend time outside – Go for a walk, visit a local park, or enjoy nature with your family while being mindful of your surroundings.
Pick up litter – Bring a bag on your walk and clean up trash in your neighborhood.
Reduce single-use plastics – Use a reusable water bottle, grocery bags, and coffee cups for the day (and beyond).
Plant something – Whether it’s flowers, herbs, or a tree, planting helps support the environment.
Shop local and sustainable – Support small businesses that prioritize eco-friendly practices.
Unplug for a few hours – Reduce energy use by turning off electronics and enjoying a low-impact activity.
Start recycling or composting – If you don’t already, Earth Day is a great time to begin.
Teach your kids – Do a simple Earth Day craft or talk about ways to care for the planet together.