It’s strange times indeed, and that means this year the celebration of the 50th anniversary of Earth Day has had to go virtual.

Earth Day launched in 1970 at the initiative of Gaylord Nelson, then a U.S Senator from Wisconsin. He was inspired by the anti-war movement of students to create a day of consciousnesses raising about the environment. Earth Day, taking place every April 22, has since grown into a global initiative. Plans for the 50th anniversary include a focus on climate action and building on the legacy of the movement.

Not wanting to miss the opportunity to mark the occasion in the midst of the coronavirus crisis, Brooklyn’s parks and environmental organizations are bringing the party online. Here are few ways you can participate.

fort greene park
Fort Greene Park in 2018. Photo by Susan De Vries

Fort Greene Park
Wednesday, April 22
3-3:30 p.m.

The Friends of Fort Greene Park Conservancy is hosting a live, family-friendly concert with singer and songwriter Esther Crow. You’ll be able to watch the half hour songfest via livestream.

Prospect Park
Wedensday, April 22
All Day
The Prospect Park Alliance has a number of programs planned for the day. You can join a virtual walking tour of the park’s trees with Prospect Park Alliance forest ecologist Howard Goldstein and Turnstile Tours and download nature games and activities. If your social distancing includes walks in the park you can also sign up to pitch in and keep it clean. Register online for a pick-up time and you can get a Green-and-Go-Volunteer Kit. The kit, available for $10 (refundable, minus fees), includes a trash grabber, garbage bags, disposable gloves and volunteer guidelines.

Brooklyn Bridge Park
Ongoing
To help those looking for activities for the young ones at home, the Brooklyn Bridge Park has created an Earth Day At-Home Activities and Resources page online. There are lesson plans focused on the science and history of the park and a recycled art challenge. And on social media you can check out #wildlifewednesdays, which highlights the flora and fauna of the park.

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