Did you know an internationally celebrated day like Earth Day got its start right here in Wisconsin.

Madison has so much to do and so many ways to celebrate Earth Day, that you'll find yourself making plans to book an overnight stay

Take your pick. Rentable e-bikes. Park clean-ups. Hiking Gov. Nelson State Park. (Fun fact: Gaylord Nelson is the founder of Earth Day.) One thing's for sure, in the environmentally conscious city of Madison, Earth Day and sustainability mean a lot. 

Explore these outdoor urban adventures and events to jump start your celebrations.

Ditch the vehicle for the weekend

Take advantage of Madison being one of the most bikeable cities in the world. Rent your E-Bike from a BCycle station near you to sustainably explore the city and celebrate Earth Day! Choose one of Madison's multiple bike paths or trails to venture through.

Pro Tip: Sign up for Madison By Bike to win prizes and earn discounts while biking your way around the city. 

Take the Earth Day Challenge from Madison Parks

All ages are welcome to celebrate Earth Day by volunteering to clean up a neighborhood park at the Earth Day Challenge across the city. 

Brought to you by City of Madison Parks, the event requires advanced registration and is for anyone 10+ years old. It will be held on Earth Day, Saturday, April 20 at various parks in Madison from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Check it out!

Pro Tip: You don't have to be a Madison resident to volunteer. Voluntourism is on the rise.

Shop Locally & Sustainably 

In Madison, it's easy to shop with sustainability in mind. Whether it's clothing, daily essentials or coffee and a sweet treat, our over 100 thrift shops, antique stores and locally sourced markets make it easy to embrace our community's sustainable mindset on your next shopping trip. 

Pro Tip: Next time you need a refill on home and cosmetic products, stop by Green Life Trading Co. Just bring a reusable container (or buy one onsite) and fill up on everything you need, waste free!

Learn Something New This Earth Day

Celebrate the week leading up to Earth Day during Earth Week, an annual celebration by UW Madison's Office of Sustainability. Earth Week provides an opportunity to celebrate, as well as examine and educate, our relationships with the natural environment and each other. Stay tuned for updates on Earth Week 2024

Choose your favorite Earth Day events around Madison

Want more ways to celebrate? Check out our events calendar for an up-to-date list of eco-friendly events happening all year long!