While basketball might be taking over the city (and your screens) right now, there’s another sphere-shaped object city officials want you to keep in mind — the planet. Tomorrow, March 22, Lexington is celebrating Earth Hour, an international movement encouraging people to spend 60+ minutes doing something good for planet Earth.
Live Green Lexington, aka the city’s Division of Environmental Services, is hosting 8 events to make it easier for you to give back to mother nature.
Reforest Frenzy, Hisle Farm Park
Good for your health, good for the planet. Funds raised from registration of these races support Reforest the Bluegrass, restoring trees that were removed due to urbanization. There are options for a 1-mile, 5K, or 10K races, and sign-ups start at $20.
Streambank Cleanup, Gardenside Park
Join fellow Lexingtonians from 10 to 11 a.m. to help keep our waterways + sewer system clean — and in turn protecting our wildlife — by picking up trash out of the Wolf Run Creek.
Test the Waters, Raven Run Nature Sanctuary
Part of Lexington’s Water Week, try your hand at water testing and learn what the presence of certain compounds means for water quality. Registration is required for this event which takes place 10–11:30 a.m.
McConnell Springs Park is a nature sanctuary, meaning visitors are expected to stay on the marked trails to protect the natural plant + animal life. | Photo by Ted O’Canna
Volunteer Morning, McConnell Springs
Nestled in the middle of an industrial complex, help keep the founding site of our city — a protected natural area — clean + beautiful from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Registration is recommended and tools + instructions will be provided that morning
Earth, Moon and Sun Planetarium Show, Living Arts & Science Center
Experience the expansiveness of the universe as you learn about the relationship between the earth, moon, and sun from kid-friendly host, Coyote. Showings are included with your $8 admission + will be available 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Visible Mending Workshop, Luigart Studios
Help break the trend of textile consumption by learning how to mend your own clothing. Bring garments like t-shirts or sweatshirts + join Lex Creative Reuse for a free workshop from 2 to 4 p.m. where you’ll learn techniques like patching, applique, and embroidery.
Hot Chocolate Community Ride, Coldstream Park
Give the air a break from emissions by replacing your ride with two wheels. Take a leisurely evening bike ride along the Legacy Trail, then connect with fellow cycling enthusiasts over a cup of hot chocolate from 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Earth Hour Hike, Hisle Farm Park
Learn about the diverse ecosystems including wildlife + plants at this local park while you soak in your surroundings on a moderate, two-mile hike. An $8 registration is required for the hike that begins at 6:30 p.m.
Already got plans? Pretend you’re Captain Planet any day of the week by:
- Taking it upon yourself to pick up litter at one of our local parks
- Help protect the water ways by adopting a storm drain
- Reminding yourself of how to recycle locally
- Shopping at our local farmers markets
