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Washington, D.C., will turn Earth Day into a week of environmental activities this April, with a major National Mall celebration planned for Saturday, April 18.
Earth Day has promoted environmental protection worldwide since 1970. In 2026, organizers are extending the observance beyond a single day so more people can participate in programs focused on sustainability and community action.
McLean sophomore Misha Smoyer said the expanded schedule can keep environmental issues in the public eye longer while making participation active and enjoyable.
The National Mall celebration will highlight clean energy, alternative vehicle fuels and environmentally friendly technology. Families, activists and organizations are expected to take part.
Sophomore Alden Strubhar, who previously attended with his family, said the event offered a fun opportunity to learn about the environment.
A centerpiece of the celebration will be the Earth Day Walk, which is expected to draw hundreds of participants in support of clean energy and sustainable transportation. The route begins near the Capitol Reflecting Pool, continues to the Washington Monument and then returns.
The walk starts at 10 a.m. Saturday. Participants will have access to Green Expos and free T-shirts.
Sophomore Frankie Wheeler said Earth Day walks could also benefit the McLean community by encouraging local involvement.
Other activities across the District will emphasize hands-on participation. They include “plogging,” which combines jogging with picking up litter, as well as guided ecosystem tours and tree-care walks in locations such as Anacostia Park.
The events pair entertainment with a serious message. Climate change, deforestation and habitat loss remain pressing global concerns, and organizers hope education and community activities will encourage people to adopt environmentally responsible habits.
As thousands gather for Earth Day events across Washington, the celebration will emphasize that environmental action can begin in local communities. Smoyer said the observance helps unite people seeking meaningful change while spreading awareness of environmental issues worldwide.