At sunrise on a cool April morning, volunteers kneel in the dirt — hands muddy, spirits high — planting the seeds of a greener future, one sapling at a time. But for many, Earth Day is about more than just recycling and planting trees.
As climate concerns continue to grow worldwide, communities across Texas are using the day as a rallying point to advocate for environmental policies and sustainable practices that protect the planet for future generations.
So, what’s the story behind Earth Day — and why do we celebrate it?
When is Earth Day?
Earth Day falls on April 22 each year but is not a federally recognized holiday, according to USA TODAY.
Why do we celebrate Earth Day?
The roots of Earth Day trace back to a rising wave of environmental awareness in the 1960s — a time when pollution was rampant, rivers caught fire and public health was paying the price. Many credit the spark of the modern environmental movement to Rachel Carson’s groundbreaking 1962 book “Silent Spring”, which exposed the devastating effects of DDT — a synthetic insecticide — on wildlife, ecosystems and human health.
By the end of the decade, calls for action were growing louder. In 1969, students at the University of Michigan’s Environmental Action for Survival Committee began selling buttons that read “Give Earth a Chance,” borrowing language from the anti-Vietnam War protests that dominated the era, according to the Library of Congress.
That same year, U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson envisioned a national day of environmental activism that could harness the same passion and energy that fueled the antiwar movement. He urged students to channel their advocacy toward protecting the planet, and the idea of Earth Day was born.
When was the first Earth Day?
The very first Earth Day was celebrated on April 22, 1970. About 20 million Americans joined rallies, cleanups and teach-ins across the country.
Just a few months later, in July 1970, the U.S. government responded by establishing the Environmental Protection Agency.
How to celebrate Earth Day in Texas
Texas is home to several major Earth Day celebrations, including large-scale events in Austin and Dallas that aim to inspire climate action, community engagement and sustainable innovation.
This year’s theme, “OUR POWER, OUR PLANET” invites individuals around the globe to support renewable energy initiatives and the goal to triple the global generation of clean electricity by 2030.
Earth Day ATX 2025
Earth Day ATX 2025 is the annual Earth Day celebration in Austin. Themed “Rooted in Community,” this year’s event will focus on history, resilience and the strength found in collective environmental action. Attendees can expect local exhibits, educational programming, and family-friendly activities throughout the afternoon.
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When: Saturday, April 12, 2025
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Where: Huston-Tillotson University, East Austin
Earth Day Expo – Dallas
Earthx2025 is a five-day conference that brings together global leaders from business, politics and environmental sectors. Designed to foster collaboration and forward-thinking solutions, the event will include keynote sessions, panel discussions and extensive networking opportunities aimed at building coalitions for the planet’s future.
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When: April 21–25, 2025
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Where: Hilton Anatole, Dallas, TX
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Time: Times vary by day and session
Green Mountain Energy Earth Day at Discovery Green – Houston
Visitors of the Green Mountain Energy Earth Day will explore solar, wind, and water energy through interactive art, live mural painting, music, and family-friendly activities. Exhibitors, crafts, food and performances will create a lively and engaging atmosphere.
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When: Saturday, April 12, 2025
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Where: Discovery Green, Houston
Texoma Earth Day Festival
The Texoma Earth Day Festival offers a community-wide, family-friendly event where attendees can learn practical ways to reduce their environmental footprint. Open to the public and free to attend, the festival combines education, entertainment and local engagement to promote sustainable living.
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When: Saturday, April 26, 2025
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Time: 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Find the schedule and locations here.
Celebrate on your own
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Planting trees, which also aligns with the upcoming Arbor Day on April 26
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Visiting state parks and national parks (all national parks are free April 19, while special events occur through April 26 for National Park Week!)
This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: When is Earth Day? How to celebrate Earth Day in Texas
Read the full article here
