Join the Movement: Celebrate Earth Day in Central Florida

By Monika Knotts

On April 22nd, we collectively reflect on the state of our home planet by celebrating Earth Day. This observation is vital in Florida, which ranked third-highest in the country for total carbon dioxide emissions in 2019, producing 233.6 million tons, according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA).

While plans have been made to reduce Florida’s dependence on fossil fuels, with the City of Orlando aiming to transition to 100% renewable energy by 2050, critics say these proposals lack urgency. With this in mind, many people in Central Florida are passionate about preserving the environment and go to great lengths on Earth Day to raise awareness and educate the community on how individuals can take action against the climate crisis.

Several events are scheduled on the fourth Saturday in April to learn, connect, and celebrate our planet with like-minded CFL residents throughout the region.

In Downtown Orlando, the 18th annual Central Florida Earth Day will happen at Lake Eola Park from 10am to 6 pm. The event, hosted by the nonprofit organization Vegetarians of

Central Florida, is free to attend and will feature dozens of food and retail vendors that align with the event’s mission, live music, educational activities, and even opportunities to interact with animals. If that’s not enough, you can walk 5 minutes outside the park to The Veranda at Thornton Park for a celebration with more food, music, and vendors from 11am to 3pm.

Take advantage of Free Family Day at Art & History Museums of Maitland (A&H) from 10am to 1pm. Enjoy exploring the four museums under the A&H umbrella at no cost and participate in activities like printmaking to creating eco-inspired tote bags.

Lake Nona will host an evening event at the Lake Nona Town Center from 3-10 pm. Lake Nona Live, a micro music festival for all ages, will have several performers gracing the stage throughout the event, as well as food trucks and bars to keep the party going. Tickets range from $35$70 and can be purchased in advance through Eventbrite.

Interested in a more hands-on experience? Consider attending a community cleanup, like the Wekiva

River Cleanup hosted by Keep Seminole Beautiful. Arrive at Wekiva Island before 9 am to check in and gain entrance to the park and access to canoes free of charge. From 9 to noon, paddle the river to collect debris and trash, and take in the breathtaking nature.

With so much information circulating about the imminence of climate change, it can be a muchneeded breath of fresh air to interact with those working tirelessly to create a livable future for Floridians. While celebrations are certainly in order, these Earth Day events aim to raise general awareness and inspire action.

The hope is that, outside of this one day a year, you will continue to make more eco-conscious choices and possibly even get involved locally. So, whether you’re a self-proclaimed eco-warrior or just dipping a toe into sustainable living, this Earth Day can be a time to reevaluate your lifestyle and contemplate how you fit into the eight-billion-piece puzzle that is humanity.