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Earth Day is this Saturday, and that means trash pick-ups are happening throughout the state. Check out these maps and resources for Minneapolis and St. Paul, to find your local opportunity to contribute to the clean-up.
April 22 is also one of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ days to open its parks and recreation areas to visitors for free.
Lastly, here are some other Earth Day events (mostly involving eco-friendly information and family-friendly activities) throughout the Twin Cities metro area:
What: Earth Week Community Fair
When: April 20, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. (community fair hours); 11 a.m.-1 p.m. (food truck hours)
Where: Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office Rotunda, 425 Grove St., St. Paul
At the Ramsey County sheriff’s office, a community fair features information on recycling and conservation—plus, there are food trucks.
What: Earth Day Community Clothing Swap
When: April 20, 3-8 p.m
Where: Braemer Arena, 7501 Ikola Way, Edina
This free clothing drive reuses and recycles.
What: Everyday Eco Festival
When: April 21, noon-6 p.m.
Where: Storm Creek, 915 Blue Gentian Road, Eagan
A live DJ, pizza from Chef Lucas, a plastic bag recycling station, a pop-up shop, and more fill out a day of speakers and activities at the outerwear store.
What: Eden Prairie Eco Expo
When: April 22, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: Eden Prairie Center, 8251 Flying Cloud Dr., Eden Prairie
More than 35 “eco exhibits” set up at Eden Prairie’s expo, and kids get opportunities to learn about pollinators and clean water.
What: Environmental Fun Fair
When: April 22, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: Springbrook Nature Center, 100 85th Ave. NW, Fridley
Check out family-friendly activities and environmental exhibits, go on an interactive nature hike, and stop by the food trucks.
What: Earth Day Celebration
When: April 22, 1-4 p.m.
Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes
Make an earth art project and hike the trails. Kids can enjoy a bouncy house, and local organizations will be on hand to provide eco-friendly info.
What: Earth Day Birding Festival
When: April 22, 7 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Carpenter Nature Center, 12805 St. Croix Trail S., Hastings
In Hastings, Carpenter Nature Center hosts its annual Birding Festival. The center prefers advanced registration. Call 651-437-4359.
What: Free Entry Day at Minnesota’s State Parks
When: April 22, 8 a.m.-10 p.m.
Where: All 75 Minnesota state parks and recreation areas
Four days a year, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources opens the state’s parks and recreation areas to visitors for free. This weekend, reap the benefits of outdoor exposure.
What: Clean Up at the Parks
When: April 22, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Various locations
The Three Rivers Park District hosts clean-ups at its parks and reserves. Pick up trash bags and gloves. Locations include: Cleary Lake Regional Park, French Regional Park, Hyland Lake Park Reserve, Eastman Nature Center, Lowry Nature Center, Richardson Nature Center, and Gale Woods Farm.
What: Earth Day Celebration
When: April 22, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: Harriet Alexander Nature Center, 2520 Dale St. N., Roseville
Come for the live, kid-friendly music and the all-ages activities, crafts, and games.
What: Party for the Planet
When: April 22-23, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, 1225 Estabrook Drive, St. Paul
Family activities, trivia, crafts, games, and education programs teach about animals, plants, and people. Get some tips on lessening planetary wear-and-tear.
What: Earth Day / Arbor Day Celebration
When: April 23, 1-4 p.m.
Where: Wood Lake Nature Center, 6710 Lake Shore Drive, Richfield
Pick up litter, engage in a prairie restoration project, and visit the eco-informational booths. Food trucks are on site.
