Sure, Mother’s Day doesn’t come for another month, but it’s never too early to honor your mother—Mother Earth, that is. Check out these eco-minded Earth Day events:
Editor’s Pick: Celebrate the day by checking out what the Earth doesn’t look like. The Bruce Museum has an exhibition of world maps that date from 1511 to 1800, so you can see the kooky ideas they came up with before satellites were invented. Writing the Earth: 2,000 Years of Geography and Mapping runs through May 30. The Bruce Museum of Arts and Science, Greenwich, CT (203-869-0376).
â– On April 17, Connecticut Energy Efficiency Fund and its mascot, Effy the Dinosaur, will make a visit to the Stepping Stones Museum for Children in Norwalk, for some environmental activities. There also will be a performance from the band Sirius Coyote, whose songs are meant to inspire others to go green. Stepping Stones Museum for Children, Norwalk, CT (203-899-0606).
â– There’s nothing greener than spending a weekend down on the farm. On April 17 and 18, Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture will put you to work doing farm chores; then, you can stick around for one of its famous livestock or vegetable tours. Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture, Pocantico Hills (914-366-6200).
â– To ease your eco-conscience, volunteer at a nature center. On April 18, the Greenburgh Nature Center hosts its Earth Day celebration, and visitors can help out by cleaning up the grounds, garden beds, and trails. Greenburgh Nature Center, Scarsdale (914-723-3470).
â– Kids can learn more about the natural world with a visit to a real wolf pack. On April 22, the Wolf Conservation Center offers a program that teaches kids misconceptions and mythology about wolves; then, the group will check out the Ambassador and red wolves on the premises. Wolf Conservation Center, South Salem (914-763-2373).
â– Tend your own little piece of Earth on Earth Day. We mean real little—bring a 24-inch pot with you to the Pelham Art Center on April 24. There, Greener by Design will host an affordable workshop to help you fill that container with pretty flowers. Pelham Art Center, Pelham (914-738-2525).