Earth Day in Howard County: Family-Friendly Fun to Celebrate Our Planet

As a mom of two curious, high-energy kids who love any excuse to be outside, Earth Day has become a meaningful tradition for our family. It’s the perfect opportunity to slow down, enjoy the fresh air, and show our children what it means to take care of the planet in simple, hands-on ways.

If you’re looking for ways to celebrate Earth Day in Howard County (and nearby) with your little ones, I’ve rounded up a handful of family-friendly events that make it easy to connect with nature, give back, and make sweet memories while you’re at it.

Earth Day Celebration at Color Burst Park – Columbia, MD

• Location: Color Burst Park, 6000 Merriweather Dr, Columbia, MD

• Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

• Description: This Earth Day celebration is back at Color Burst Park and packed with interactive fun for the whole family. From hands-on workshops and giveaways to music and movement, there’s something for everyone. The first 100 families will receive a complimentary native tree seedling, courtesy of the Arbor Day Foundation and Howard Hughes.

Earth Day Trail Cleanup – Savage Mill Trail, Savage, MD

• Location: 8600 Foundry St, Savage, MD

• Date: Saturday, April 19, 2025

• Time: 11:00 AM

• Description: One of my favorite ways to celebrate Earth Day is by getting out into nature. This trail clean-up is perfect for families who love hiking or even just a peaceful stroll. We bring gloves, a trash bag, and our grabber sticks, and we make a whole outing out of it. Bonus points if you pack a picnic to enjoy after your hard work.

Earth Day Community Clean-up & Celebration – Kirby Lane Park, Baltimore, MD

• Location: 4000 Kirby Ln, Baltimore, MD

• Date: Tuesday, April 22, 2025

• Time: 9:00 AM

• Description: If you're up for a short drive into the city, this community clean-up is a great way to spend a meaningful morning. My kids love the idea of “saving the planet,” and this event gives them a tangible way to do just that. We grab some gloves, bring a small trash bag, and let them take the lead—it’s simple, impactful, and sets a great tone for the day.

Wilde Lake Earth Day Festival – Columbia, MD

• Location: 10400 Cross Fox Ln, Columbia, MD

• Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025

• Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

• Description: This is one of my favorite local Earth Day events. The Wilde Lake Earth Day Festival has everything: live music, food vendors, local makers, and plenty of kid-friendly activities. Wilde Lake CARES also hosts their Annual Plant Exchange—bring a plant, swap it for something new, and maybe even talk your kids into caring for it.

• Mom tip: Bring a tote bag. There are usually freebies, and the kids always end up collecting something.

Earth Day at The Shops at Westwood Unique – Ellicott City, MD

• Location: 8775 Centre Park Dr, Ellicott City, MD

• Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025

• Time: Begins at 10:00 AM

• Description: If you're in the mood for a more relaxed Earth Day vibe, this event is a fun way to celebrate while browsing some spring shopping finds. Think giveaways, sweet treats, and a laid-back atmosphere. We love to grab brunch in Old Ellicott City first, then head over to the shops to make a whole morning of it.

Slow Down & Connect with Nature

Earth Day is such a great reminder to slow down, get outside, and reconnect with what matters. Whether you're volunteering at a clean-up, swapping plants in Columbia, or just enjoying the sunshine on a walk, these small moments add up—and our kids are watching.

Here’s to muddy shoes, full hearts, and showing our little ones how to love the planet we call home.