Free Earth Day Events in Orange County (2023)

Earth Day is an annual event that takes place on April 22nd to celebrate the beauty and diversity of our planet, as well as to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainable practices. In Orange County, California, there are several exciting events planned for Earth Day 2023.

Earth Day Events in Orange County

One of the biggest events is the Earth Day Festival in Irvine. The festival is organized by the City of Irvine in partnership with local businesses, organizations, and volunteers. The event features a wide range of activities, including live music, environmental exhibits, educational booths, a petting zoo, and food vendors. Visitors can learn about sustainable living, conservation, and renewable energy, as well as participate in workshops, interactive games, and crafts. The festival also hosts a bike valet service and encourages attendees to reduce their carbon footprint by using public transportation or carpooling.

Another event to look out for is the Earth Day Cleanup at Huntington State Beach. The cleanup is organized by the California Coastal Commission in collaboration with local nonprofits and community groups. Volunteers can join in the effort to collect trash and debris from the beach and prevent it from entering the ocean. The cleanup also provides an opportunity to learn about the harmful effects of pollution on marine life and how we can make a difference by reducing our waste and using eco-friendly products.

To officially recognize the importance of Earth Day, the MainPlace Mall, a three-story super-regional shopping center in Santa Ana, California, will host an Earth Day-themed event on Saturday, April 22nd, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the shopping center’s Center Court. 

There will be a colorful selfie backdrop showcasing recyclable cans, plastic, cardboard, straws/bottle caps, and bubble wrap to remind people of the many ways recycling can help preserve the beauty of our planet. Children will enjoy  a special terrarium-building kids craft as well as receiving a free take-home plantable earth seed ball (each while supplies last). This event is free and open to the public. 

Other events happening on Saturday, April 22, 2023:

Earth Day Market Pop Up Shop | The Garden Walk
3:00PM-9:00PM
Shop with your friends and family from our locally handmade businesses. We have candles, crystals, accessories, Disney merchandise, boutique clothing/accessories, self-care necessities and so much more!

CAC Annual Picnic Day | 4442 Carbon Canyon Rd
10:30AM-7:00PM
Games, Fun, BBQ, Kids Areas, and other activities.

Green Bird Earth Day Community Clean Up @ Mother Earth Market | The CAMP
2:30PM-3:00PM
Join us at 2:30 on Earth Day 4/22 for a clean up of the neighborhoods surrounding The CAMP in Costa Mesa.

Earth Day at the Bay | Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center
10:00AM-4:00PM
We are excited to welcome you back to the Upper Newport Bay for the return of our annual Earth Day Celebration! Join us for a free family-friendly day full of hands-on arts and crafts, educational activities, and science discovery. Enjoy live music as you explore our Adventure Partners’ booths, take a break for a tasty treat at one of the food trucks, and don’t forget to complete the scavenger hunt for prizes and giveaways! FREE PARKING.

Experience Spring in the Garden | Roger’s Gardens (All weekends in April) 
9:00AM-6:00PM
Celebrate Spring at Roger’s Gardens! Our gardens will inspire you to create a beautiful landscape and connect to nature. Join us every weekend to discover artistic garden displays and experience interactive demonstrations. Embrace the season by celebrating beautiful environments, nature, habitats, and sustainable living while learning how to bring beauty into your garden and home.
April 15 – 16: Rose Gardening
April 22 – 23: Celebrating Earth Day
April 29 – 30: Peppermania

Westminster Celebrates Earth Day | 8200 Westminster Blvd
8:00AM-12:00PM
Join us at the Senior Center for a Beautification Project where we’ll create a more inviting outdoor space with drought tolerant landscaping! Those who sign-up early will receive a commemorative shirt!

Other Earth Day events happening on Sunday, April 23, 2023

Earth Day Run, Yoga & Beach Clean Up! | Lifeguard Tower 28
9:00AM-12:00PM
We are excited to offer our community a beautiful event to connect with each other and our beautiful planet! All ages and experience levels are welcome to join us for this special, free event on Sunday,

Community Day | Back Bay Science Center (every Sunday)
10:00AM-2:00PM
Join us as you tour the facility, including Shellmaker trail, teaching lab, and aquatic lab.
Learn about the Back Bay Science Center’s Educational Programs and how you can get more involved.
Fun, hands-on activities for kids.

In addition to these events, there are many other Earth Day celebrations happening throughout Orange County, including eco-fairs, film screenings, and community cleanups. Some local schools and universities are also hosting educational programs and outreach initiatives to promote environmental awareness among students and staff.

As we continue to face the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, it is more important than ever to come together and take action to protect our planet. Earth Day provides a valuable opportunity to learn, connect, and make a positive impact in our communities. So, mark your calendars and join in the festivities this April 22nd!