Nature-inspired activities and fun at Earth Day celebrations

With Earth Day this Monday the 22nd, you can get more in touch with Mother Nature at the events I’ve found, while also have a chance to learn about and enjoy our planet; and, perhaps, even join a cleanup and planting activity.

Earth Day Hands-On Science Zone, Cradle of Aviation Museum, Charles Lindbergh Blvd., Garden City. April 22.
You can participate in three experiments that show how important water is to life on Earth to learn what happens when the ice caps melt, see how water changes our landscape and discover why all water isn’t the same. Activities are free with museum admission. Hours: Noon-4 p.m. 516-572-4066 · cradleofaviation.org.

Seatuck Eco-Carnival, Suffolk County Environmental Center, 550 S. Bay Ave., Islip. April 27.
Explore a salt marsh, get an up-close look at birds of the forest, learn botanical basics and search for insects at this 10th annual event, which also includes kids yoga, face painting, an art show and house tours. Live performances with the Suburban Brothers Band, Jack’s Waterfall, and Darlene Graham and the Shades of Green Band are offered throughout the day. Don’t miss out on the food court, which offers options from Dang-BBQ, Evergreen Island Caterers and Roxy’s Ice Cream Truck. Hours: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Rain date: April 28. 631-581-6908 · seatuck.org.

Earth Day Celebration, Quogue Wildlife Refuge, 3 Old Country Road, Quogue. April 27.
Guided bird walks, crafts, environmental exhibitors, plant sales, and self-guided kayaking and canoeing on Old Ice Pond are just some of the fun events you can enjoy. Munch on treats from MattiTaco and Hampton Coffee Company food trucks; and listen to live tunes by the Jan Hanna Band. The celebration takes place rain or shine, and no reservations are necessary. Hours: Noon-3 p.m. 631-653-4771. quoguewildliferefuge.org.

Earth Day Cleanup, held throughout Levittown. April 27.
Get your hands dirty by joining in this 13th annual cleanup and planting event, hosted by the Levittown Community Council. Areas to be cleaned will be assigned day-of, so head down to the Veterans Memorial Park, on Hempstead Turnpike and Shelter Lane, to receive your assignment and get equipment and supplies, at 1 p.m. The cleanup is held until 4 p.m. Rain date: April 28. 516-796-3392 · levittowncouncil@yahoo.com.