Every April 22, people around the world gather to celebrate Earth Day with events that demonstrate support for environmental protection.
The first Earth day was observed in 1970 and came in response to concerns about the health of the planet. Nearly half a century later, the movement has grown only stronger. In honor of Earth Day 2019, on Saturday, April 27, the South Fork Natural History Museum (SOFO) in Bridgehampton (which is marking its own 30th anniversary) will offer free admission from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with a variety of environmental activities throughout the day.
“Earth Day should be a part of our everyday experience, but it is good to have a special reminder that all life on Earth is interdependent and all our actions in relation to the Earth have consequences,” said Carol Crasson, SOFO’S director of education and communications. “This is a day to ponder our place on the Earth as well as to have fun outdoors, surrounded by the wonders of nature.”
SOFO’s Free Earth Day programs:
10 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.
“Train Your Eyes to be Tick Wise,” a lesson about tick safety by April Boitano.
Long Island Power Solutions enlightens visitors about solar power with their solar house and car behind the museum.
10 to 11:45 a.m.
Local elementary school student Sabrina McManus presents her endangered species awareness project.
“Making Things: The Art of Recycled Materials”with artist Virva Hinnemo.
SOFO’s outreach and education coordinator Melanie Meade makes interactive giant soap bubbles.
10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.
Nature walk behind the museum with Frank Quevedo, SOFO’s executive director.
Noon to 1 p.m.
Explore the museum with SOFO educators.
1 to 2:45 p.m.
Writer and naturalist Dell Cullum talks about his children’s book “The Wild Adventures of Scurry the Squirrel,” illustrated by Michele Mott.
Nature-themed face painting.
SOFO environmental educator Miles Todaro reveals “Secrets of the Pond.”
From 3 to 4 p.m. SOFO offers “Jungle Bob’s Live Animal Bonanza” at the museum. The presentation will be an up-close introduction to reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrate animals. There is a fee for this program and advance reservations are required at 631-537-9735 or sofo@hamptons.com. The cost is $15 for adults ($10 SOFO members), $10 for children ($5 SOFO members).