Erie MetroParks to host Earth Day Extravaganza

What is it: Erie MetroParks will host an Earth Day Extravaganza from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. April 20 at Osborn Metropark. The event will build on previous years’ successes and help to educate the public while providing fun entertainment and activities, according to a press release from Erie MetroParks.

The event is in partnership with Shores & Islands Ohio, Erie Conservation District, Erie County Health Department, Friends of Erie MetroParks, Friends of Old Woman Creek, VacationLand Federal Credit Union, the Firelands Audubon Society, and First Energy. 

The festivities kick off with a parkrun (a free walk/run) at 9 a.m., with Earth Day activities starting at 11 a.m. 

What to expect: Highlights of the day include the 3rd Annual Ohio Wildlife Youth Art Show, which will showcase hundreds of local artists from area schools. A panel of local art enthusiasts will judge the show, with an awards ceremony starting at 2 p.m.

Dr. Insecta will perform his “Spider Stroll” from noon-2 p.m., while Back to the Wild will host its “Birds of Prey” exhibit from noon-3 p.m., where attendees can see eagles, owls, and more.

DJ Percolator will provide music throughout the day, and free face painting and free caricatures created by a caricature artist will be available.

Craft stations, live animals, a disc golf station, a bird feeder workshop, seed plantings, and other activities will be provided. Additionally, Erie MetroParks will give away native tree saplings and reusable bags and cups (while supplies last).

Several other organizations, including Friends of Old Woman Creek, Erie Conservation District, Erie County Health Department, Erie County Master Gardeners, Erie County Chapter of the Ohio Horseman’s Council, Erie MetroParks, Girl Scout Troop 50359, Girls Scouts of North East Ohio, Firelands Audubon Society, Sandusky River Valley Beekeepers Association, Stein Honey, Vacationland Federal Credit Union, the Ohio Division of Wildlife, Abbey Rose Foundation, Habitat for Humanity, 8 Acre Woods School, Huron Public Library, and Ohio Division of Natural Areas and Preserves will showcase what they do in the community and offer unique activities for attendees.

Food options will include Guesswho Tacos, Cameo Pizza, The Gaucho & the Gringa, Gram’s Goodies, Kona Ice, Great Plains Bison Burgers, Strawberry Cow. Shopping options will include Peace by Piece Pastries, Schick Apiary, Stein Honey, Themis Jewelry, Buzzy’s Sweet Treats, Foster’s Old-Fashioned Fudge, EarthSpice, and Design by Kathy.

Why is it important: “The Earth Day Extravaganza is an amazing free community celebration that brings in organizations from around the state to share their nature knowledge with residents,” says Kippie Loughlin, digital media and IT coordinator for Erie MetroParks. “Erie MetroParks and its partners will be giving away recycled cups that double as measuring glasses, reusable straws, tree saplings, reusable grocery bags, and other items to encourage people to reuse, reduce, and rethink. 

“This is a fun, free event with music, giveaways, and lots of food. We encourage people to come grab lunch and be part of something special. We want residents to celebrate our natural spaces here in Erie County and learn about the local wildlife. There will be dozens of live animals and nature demonstrations on what we can do to make a positive impact in our area.”