How to Celebrate Earth Day in Chatham County

The month of April is a special month because of a certain holiday. No, it’s not April Fools Day — it’s much later in the month. April 22, 2016 is Earth Day, and it’s a time to celebrate nature and the joy of being outdoors.

Chatham County has so many options for getting outside and having fun. From summer activities at Jordan Lake, to kayaking trips down the Cape Fear River, to running along the American Tobacco Trail, to enjoying the night skies with the Morehead Planetarium, there’s no shortage of ways to breathe in the fresh air.

Throughout the month of April, several organizations in the Triangle are helping residents celebrate Earth Day through festivities, science fairs, and more. If you love being outdoors, check out these four ways to celebrate Earth Day in Chatham County:

1. Get fit at the Briar Chapel 5K:

Briar Chapel, one of the premier neighborhood communities in Chapel Hill, is hosting the 8th-annual Earth Day celebration this weekend, which kicks off with a 5K race. Run through the neighborhood streets, and make sure you bring the kids for the short Kids Dash as well. As you run, you’ll know you’re benefitting both your own health and the health of the environment, as proceeds will benefit the Abundance Foundation, which works to increase public awareness of sustainable energy usage and local food consumption.

Once you finish running, the fun doesn’t stop. The great thing about the 5K is that it’s more than just a run — it’s going to be a community party that lasts all morning! After the race, the festivities will continue with music, food trucks and games, such as ping pong and volleyball. Bring the whole family and enjoy supporting nature.

Where: Great Meadow Park, Beacon Ridge Blvd, Chapel Hill, NC
When: Saturday, April 9, 2016, starting at 9 a.m.
Price: $30
For more information: Go to their website.

2. Learn all about recycling at the Chatham County Earth Day event:

The Chatham County Solid Waste & Recycling Division will host an Earth Day celebration event on Saturday, April 16, that will teach you and your family all about recycling.

There are several ways you can take advantage of the event:

• Document shredding: Bring all of your old papers and documents for a free document shredding session.
• Mulch sales: Get ready for yard work this spring by taking advantage of the Mulch Sale: mulch will be sold for $5 per scoop, which is approximately one cubic yard.
• Hazardous waste disposal: Learn about how Household Hazardous Waste is safely processed. If you have items such as cleaners and solvents, paint, gasoline, or electronics, be sure to bring them with you to the festival, and county staff will help you dispose of them safely.

Where: Solid Waste and Recycling Main Facility, 28 County Services Road, Pittsboro, North Carolina 27312
When: Saturday, April 16, 2016, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Price: FREE
For more information: Go to their website.

3. Get educated about science at the Marbles Kids Museum:

The day after Earth Day, on Saturday, April 23, the Marbles Kids Museum in Raleigh is hosting the 4th Annual Family Science Fair! Explore local creations and investigations by children and families in the Triangle area. Engage in hands-on science activities and demonstrations, and check out this year’s new exhibit, Conn Elementary School’s Innovation Expo, which will showcase creative solutions to global challenges.

Where: 201 East Hargett Street, Raleigh, NC 27601
When: Saturday, April 23, 2016, 1 to 4 p.m.
Price: Free with museum admission
For more information: Go to their website.

4. Shop local at the Fearrington Village Farmers’ Market Season Opener:

Get out your reusable tote bags because the Fearrington Farmers’ Market returns on Tuesday, April 5! Fresh, local food will be available next door to the Fitch Creation’s Administration building every Tuesday afternoon at 4 p.m., April through November. Expect to see many of your favorite farmers and some new faces as well. Buy vegetables, cut flowers, meats, preserves and wood-fired pizza, and know that you’re supporting the environment by shopping local!

Where: Fearrington Village, Chatham County, NC
When: Tuesday, April 5, 4 p.m.
Price: FREE
For more information: Go to their website.

Photos sourced from: Pixabay.com.