(COLORADO SPRINGS) — Earth Day is coming up on Tuesday, April 22, and staff at the Garden of the Gods got a head start on the celebration when the park hosted its 28th annual Earth Day event on Saturday, April 19, engaging community members and local organizations in a day of education, exploration, and eco-friendly fun.

Earth Day is dedicated to environmental awareness and protection, and park staff said there’s no better way to honor the planet than by simply spending time outdoors.

“There’s lots of ways to connect with our local environment, our planet, and celebrate Earth Day in your own way, and so we try and provide a lot of diverse ways to learn and connect for what makes you especially connected to it yourself,” said Bret Tennis, Parks Operations Administrator, Garden of the Gods.

The Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center offers free exhibits year-round,
where guests can learn about the region’s unique ecosystems, wildlife, and natural wonders.