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Chicago obviously loves the earth—the city has nearly a week of Earth Day events planned, starting Saturday the 18th and stretching through the 25th. At the center of the action are the city's parks, which are hosting clean up parties, nature walks, and festivals. Here is a full listing of parks that are hosting events. There's one for every interest and schedule, so you have no excuse not to get out there and celebrate…and make the earth a better place, while you're at it.
Before the Big Day:
The Chicago edition of the national Green Apple Festival runs from April 17th-19th and if you can't find something that tickles your Earth-lovin' fancy, then you must not be looking at the right website… Sign up to participate now!
If park cleanups are your thing, check out the 20th annual Friends of the Parks Earth Day Clean Up on Saturday April 18, happening in parks across the city from 9am-noon. (The City of Chicago also has an extensive list of the city's park events.)
Grant Park is holding an Earth Day clean up, planting, and mulching party April 18th and 19th from 9am-noon.The Chicago Kayak Club is hosting a clean up party at Skokie Lagoon on April 19th (9am-noon). It's BYOKayak, though if you get there closer to 9am you may be able to snag one of the club's kayaks for free.
On Earth Day:
Perfect for kids: after spending an hour or two cleaning up a local park, take the young ‘uns to the Lincoln Park Zoo's annual (Science Celebration http://www.lpzoo.org/events/sciencefair09.html). Runs from 10am-noon on April 22.
For early risers who work downtown, Lurie Gardens (in Millennium Park) is holding a Nature Conservancy Walk from 7:30-8:30am on April 22.
Morton Arboretum is holding an Earth Day Green Tea Party on April 22 from 1-3pm, with sustainable teas from around the world.
The night of April 22, restaurants across the city are offering special Earth Day deals, menus, and events. A few highlights: an organic wine tasting at Osteria Via Stato and an "eco-aware" menu at Ben Pao. (Not listed in the article is an event at Province: the restaurant is pairing up with North Shore Distillery to celebrate Earth Day with hors d'oeuvres and cocktails inspired by the season changing. $25, 6pm.)
To Keep the Excitement Going:
Loyola University is hosting their second North Lake Shore Earth Day event on Saturday April 25. The theme is "ACT LOCALLY!" and participants will be asked to pledge their commitment to changing at least one thing or engage in an activity over the next year that serves to save the planet.
Macy's has planned a day of kid-friendly, earth-friendly activities for April 25th, including face painting the a petting zoo.
North PondNature Sanctuary is holding its 9th Annual Earth Day wildflower planting session from 9-11am on April 25.
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