When we celebrate the planet, we celebrate its gifts. Here are some other ways to celebrate Mother Earth every day. 

Stream Earth Day Live. Growing out of the first Earth Day in 1970, EARTHDAY.ORG is the world’s largest recruiter to the environmental movement, working with more than 75,000 partners in over 192 countries to drive positive action for our planet. This year’s theme, Restore Our Earth, focuses not only on the need to reduce our environmental impact on the planet as we recover from the pandemic but also on how we can play a role in repairing the damage already done. You can watch a full day of programming, on earthday.org.

Hike through beautiful wildlands and hidden open spaces with Save Mt. Diablo. Some of the East Bay’s best hiking trails are right here in our backyard. Trailblazers of all ages and skill levels are invited to ‘Discover Diablo’ on hikes and walks with experts who share the history and lore of this magnificent region.

Explore Ruth Bancroft’s World-Renowned Mediterranean Garden. Whether you’re looking for a breath of fresh air, inspiration, or a local adventure, the Ruth Bancroft Garden is the perfect getaway. Revel in the massive succulents and explore the collection of drought-tolerant plants while you get ideas on how to recreate your own garden. ruthbancroftgarden.org 

Get outdoors to protect and clean California State Parks. Sign up online and pick up a free Earth Day kit with face mask, trash bags, stickers, and litter clean-up instructions, then head to a state park, local playground, or the beach to pick up trash. To volunteer, go to calparks.org.

Celebrate National Park Week. Parks across the country are hosting special programs and digital experiences. Before you head out on an adventure, download the National Park Service’s new NPS App for access to more than 400 parks across the country. 

Take the Cleaner Contra Costa Challenge. Join your neighbors in creating healthier communities by lowering emissions, conserving resources, cutting energy costs, and decreasing the use of dirty fuels. Find out how to organize a team at cleanercontracosta.org.

Fill your garden with plants and trees that thrive in Contra Costa's warm, dry climate. California natives, and good drought-tolerants like crape myrtles, roses, cactus, yucca, lambs ear, figs, succulents, and herbs like purple sage, lavender, rosemary, and thyme.