It's the 50th anniversary of Earth Day! Although we're having to celebrate a little differently this year, there are still plenty of ways to celebrate. Here are a few ideas for celebrating safely this year.

Send a loved one a plant or bouquet

Brighten up someone’s day and send them a plant to freshen up their home. Local nurseries such as Oshkosh House of Flowers, Hrnak’s or Flowers and Leaves allow online orders. Some will even do same-day delivery.

Start a donation box

Although many organizations are currently closed, it doesn’t hurt to go through your house and do a little spring cleaning. Gather up clothes and items you no longer use or need and get a donation box ready for when donation centers open up again. Oshkosh has many thrift stores and local organizations that are always looking for donations. 

Learn how to garden

If you’re looking to take up a new hobby during quarantine, gardening is a great option. Learn how to plant, grow and harvest your own fruits and vegetables... maybe we’ll see you at the Oshkosh Farmers Market someday! 

Clean up your neighborhood

Bring a trash bag on your daily walk and pick up litter around your neighborhood, favorite park, trail, or anywhere you go! We can all help keep Oshkosh clean.

Have a picnic in your backyard

Surround yourself in nature and enjoy some time outside with a family picnic in the backyard.

Hit the trails

Get out and take a hike! Some state parks might be closed but most local trails are still open. Here are a few of our favorites.

Try bird watching

Birdwatching is a great way to explore and enjoy the outdoors. Oshkosh is home to numerous species of birds, and many of them can be spotted on our local trails. You can learn more about birdwatching in Oshkosh here.

Learn about the Earth and sustainability

Learn something new about the Earth! Stream a documentary, turn on National Geographic, listen to a podcast, or read a book. There are a variety of learning resources are available including virtual presentations and films provided by UW Oshkosh in celebration of Earth Week.

Are you celebrating Earth Day from home? Let us know!

Stay the night in Oshkosh—click here for overnight options!