Celebrate Earth Day with Operation Green Team

The City of Huntsville’s Operation Green Team will be celebrating Earth Day at Hays Nature Preserve on Saturday, April 23 with fun for the whole family. All the festivities will take place from 10am-2pm and everything is FREE for all to enjoy. The festival will include activities and information that celebrate mother Earth and get the Huntsville community outside to take in the beauty of nature. Whether it’s your first time attending or you’re glad to see the festival back, it’ll be a great event to check out with many favorite vendors and some new ones too.

Interact with animals! 

The Southeastern Raptor Center from Auburn will have raptor demonstrations throughout the festival, giving a unique opportunity to view these interesting birds up close and learn more from the experts. Farm animals like a mule, horse and pig will be there as well. Plus, you may just meet a new adoptable friend from Huntsville Animal Services.

There will also be animal pelts to observe and feel, booths to learn about pollinators too. Fishing at Bar Lake as well! The poles and bait will be provided.

Come hungry! 

Hot dogs and popcorn will be provided, plus you’re welcome to bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at a picnic table near Bar Lake. Bring your favorite water bottle or water will be handed out for those who need it. Cotton candy will also be available. Plus, new this year, the Southerland Sno Depot will be handing out free shaved ice for those under age 18. 

Enjoy the music! 

Huntsville’s own Alan Little will be playing live acoustic music from 10am-1pm. 

Prep for your garden! 

Free vegetable plants to start a garden at home will be handed out by Operation Green Team. Learn some gardening tips and grab your own cucumber and tomato plants. While you’re there, learn about upcoming opportunities to join the Great American Cleanup this Spring and Summer. Find out all the events going on around Huntsville that you can be a part of to make a difference.

And so much more! 

Get your face painted at the Alabama Cooperative Extension System tables and make a birdfeeder craft. Stop by Southeastern Cave Conservancy’s exhibit for a hands-on “make a cave” activity and craft. Take in all the Earth-friendly interactive exhibits to plentiful to list here and, of course…playing on the natural playground and exploring the nearby trails.

See you at Hays Nature Preserve for all the fun on Saturday, April 23 from 10am-2pm.  All giveaways will be available while supplies last. Please note that Hays Nature Preserve will be closed on Friday, April 22 to prepare for the Earth Day events. If you have any questions, please reach out to Operation Green Team at 256-532-5326 or via Facebook.