The Virginia Museum of Natural History, through the Martinsville-Henry County Community Nature Initiative and partners, is coordinating an “Earth Week Celebration”, Friday, April 15 through Saturday, April 23. Organizations from across the area have helped plan over a dozen entertaining and educational outdoor activities and community events throughout the week to promote a greener community.
In total, 16 events will be held at local parks, nature preserves, and other community locations. Each event is designed to engage the audience and increase participants’ awareness of nature and the many benefits of spending time outdoors.
“The Earth Week Celebration is an exciting opportunity for children and families to spend quality time together outdoors to gain a better appreciation for our natural world, as well as realize that our community offers an enormous amount of exciting outdoor opportunities all year long,” said Tamara Poles, nature and outdoor education manager at VMNH. “One of the goals of the Martinsville-Henry County Community Nature Initiative is to provide more nature and outdoor programs and opportunities for the community and we felt that Earth Week is an ideal time to showcase some of these programs.”
The celebration includes events ranging from an Earth Day 5k on April 16 to hands-on crafts and interactive presentations throughout the week. Friday, April 22 marks the return of ‘Screen on the Green’ where Earth Week celebrators can enjoy the movie, “Yogi Bear” outdoors at Hooker Field in Martinsville.
The week culminates with the free Earth Day Festival on April 23 from 10 to 3 p.m. at the Smith River Sports Complex in Henry County. A variety of games, crafts and prizes will be available, as well as live music, a moon bounce, a rock wall, obstacle course, an inflatable slide, kayaking and other exciting opportunities.
Additionally, the museum is hosting Earth Day activities specifically designed for school groups on April 15. Participating students will take part in a variety of SOL-based education programs throughout the day, with programs focusing on conservation, environmental education, and natural resources.
Participants who attend 3 or more of the public activities can enter for a chance to win a grand prize. Some activities require pre-registration by calling 276-634-4185. The majority of the Earth Week activities are free and available to all ages.
For events requiring pre-registration, call 276-634-4185.
www.vmnh.net