Here are the best Earth Day events happening across DC, Maryland and Virginia this April.

Earth Day is celebrated every year on April 22 to promote global health initiatives and environmental activism. Millions of people around the globe participate in a series of tree-plantings, clean ups and practice environmentally-conscious habits in observance of the day.

The DMV area hosts numerous activities in anticipation of Earth Day, and if you're in the area, you won't want to miss out. Check out these local events to show your environmentalism!

The National Postal Museum's "Stamp Out Waste!" event

Educators from both the Smithsonian Gardens and the National Museum of Natural History are working in collaboration to host a series of arts-and-crafts events in support of environmentalism. These family-friendly activities are open to individuals of all ages, and include stations to create "Stamped for Sustainability" murals, write "Postcards for the Planets" to promote eco-friendly behaviors, and an "Upcycle Studio" to recycle old material into new pieces of artwork. The event is focused on reinforcing practices to reduce waste and to develop more environmentally-conscious perspectives.

  • Date: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. April 11
  • Location: 2 Massachusetts Ave. NE, Washington, DC

GWRCCC 2nd Annual Earth Day Alternative Vehicle Display

The Greater Washington Region Clean Cities Coalition is hosting its second annual Earth Day Alternative Vehicle Display on April 18, 2026. The public event is free of charge and includes several workshops that introduce cleaner lifestyle habits and promote environmentally sustainable options for transportation. In addition to this, there will be a Green Expo exhibition that will showcase several energy and environmental organizations as well as a 5K walk and award ceremony. This is a great opportunity to learn more about environmentally-conscious practices and to connect with community and industry members. Register in advance to get a free T-shirt.

  • Date: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. April 18
  • Location: The National Mall, 3rd Street Southwest and Madison Drive Northwest, Washington, DC

Anacostia River Earth Day Clean Up (Anacostia Watershed Society)

Every year, the Anacostia Watershed Society hosts a Anacostia River Earth Day clean up, one of the largest clean up volunteer opportunities in the DMV. Volunteers have the opportunity to come together to pick up trash along the watershed while also enjoying the views and nature. In addition to this, the Anacostia Watershed Society also coordinates other environmentally-friendly events including their Bottle Bill initiative in both Maryland and DC, individuals receive a monetary return on every item that they recycle, as well as their City Nature Challenge, which is a city-wide event that challenges participants to upload pictures of wildlife in their communities.

  • Date: April 25
  • Location: Anacostia River (select your site on the registration form)

Succulent Garden - Flower arranging workshop

Petal's Edge Florist and Flower Delivery is hosting a succulent garden flower arranging class in celebration of Earth Day. Create your own beautiful succulent garden through this guided class with provided materials and tools, and learn gardening techniques and tips. This event is a great way to destress and tap into your creativity while celebrating the beauties of nature this Earth Day.

  • Date: 6:30-8:30 p.m. April 21
  • Location: 1105 Oronoco St, Alexandria, VA

Earth Day Fairfax

Participate in the largest Earth Day celebration in Fairfax County, VA, this year at Fairfax Park on April 25. The event is comprised of a series of outdoor activities and festivities to celebrate Earth Day. The family-friendly events include nature exhibits, food trucks and vendors, local bands, live entertainment, giveaways, and farm animals. Learn more about environmentally healthy best practices and celebrate nature through this interactive and engaging event.

  • Date: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. April 25
  • Location: 1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston, VA