Earth Day is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a chance to celebrate our planet and explore ways to protect it, especially right here in the Sonoran Desert. From hands-on activities and family-friendly festivals to sustainable shopping and everyday green living tips, there are plenty of ways to get involved in Phoenix. Whether you're planting seeds with the kids, riding the light rail to a local event, or learning how to compost, this guide has everything you need to make Earth Day (and every day) a little greener.

Earth Day Events

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Earth Day Festival

April 19

Celebrate Earth Day at The Farm! Shop local vendors, enjoy live music, food & drink, and family activities!

The Farm at South Mountain

 

Earth Day at the Phoenix Zoo

April 26

Everyone has the power to save the planet. Guests are invited to join in for games and activities while learning about conservation and renewable energy.

Phoenix Zoo 

 

Earth Day Expo

April 22

Families are invited to celebrate Earth Day at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix with a variety of fun, hands-on activities in the Museum’s Children’s Garden. Children can create their own DIY bird feeders, explore the fascinating world of insects at the bug table, and decorate pots before planting seeds to take home. They’ll also enjoy a garden-themed iSpy game, make origami using recycled materials, and learn about composting through a live worm terrarium. It’s a fun and educational way for families to connect with nature and celebrate the planet.

Children's Museum of Phoenix

 

The Peoples Earth Day Festival

April 19

The festival celebrates Mother Earth by bringing the community together for a day of learning, connection, and fun in a vibrant and welcoming space. The event features live music, activities for all ages, and free food while supplies last. Attendees can enjoy hands-on experiences and learn simple ways to care for the environment. Audubon educators will also be on-site with interactive activities and tips on how to help protect local birds and their habitats.

El Prado Park

 

Sustainability Fest

April 26

Visitors are invited to discover how to live more sustainably at Arizona Science Center’s Sustainability Fest on April 26. From 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., guests can explore a variety of environmental topics including rising sea levels, reducing carbon footprints, composting and recycling, seed germination, and more. The event features hands-on activities, interactive exhibits, and opportunities to connect with community partners and local vendors—all designed to inspire a more sustainable lifestyle through science.

Arizona Science Center 

Best Outdoor Places to Explore Nature in Phoenix

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Desert Botanical Garden

Home to over 50,000 plants, including rare and endangered species, the Desert Botanical Garden offers a glimpse into the diverse flora of the Sonoran Desert.

 

South Mountain Park and Preserve

As one of the largest municipal parks in the U.S., South Mountain Park provides extensive trails and panoramic views, perfect for hiking and connecting with nature.

 

Papago Park

Known for its unique geological formations and the iconic "Hole in the Rock," Papago Park is a favorite for both casual strolls and photography enthusiasts.

Sustainable Things to Do in Phoenix

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Visit a Farmers Market

Shop local and support Arizona’s agricultural community by visiting farmers markets across the city. The Downtown Phoenix Farmers Market (open Saturdays) is packed with local produce and sustainable goods—and it’s walkable from Roosevelt Row. You can also check out Uptown Farmers Market or Singh Meadows for even more fresh, locally grown options. Shopping local reduces the carbon footprint of your food while keeping dollars in the community.

 

Try a Zero-Waste Lifestyle Shop

Swap single-use plastics for refillable home essentials at Desert Refillery, a sustainable goods store offering everything from soaps to cleaning supplies in reusable containers.

 

Use Public Transit or Go Car-Free

The Valley Metro light rail is clean, affordable, and surprisingly far-reaching—it can take you to places like the Phoenix Art Museum, ASU, and Tempe Town Lake. For shorter trips, book a Waymo, a ride-share, or rent an e-scooter or bike and explore the city at your own pace. Want a glimpse into a car-free future? Visit Culdesac Tempe, a walkable neighborhood built around bikes, public spaces, and community living—no cars required.

 

Support Sustainable Dining

Choose restaurants that source local ingredients, compost, or actively work to reduce food waste. Many Phoenix eateries feature menus with Arizona-grown produce and sustainable practices.