Raccoon River Park (2500 Grand Avenue) hosts Earth Day Family Fun this year, offering free outdoor activities focused on environmental education and entertainment. Stop by community vendor tables, take home giveaways, create art and games from recyclable materials, go fishing, and meet live animals. You can also register for bonus educational sessions (below) with limited space available.

Saturday, April 20
10 am - 12 pm
All Ages
FREE

Discovery Bike

Join us for a guided bike ride around Blue Heron Lake to explore nature and make exciting discoveries. The ride starts at Biddle Shelter, so bring your own bike and helmet (required for all riders). Children must be accompanied by an adult, and pre-registration is required due to limited space. This special Earth Day event offers a fun outdoor adventure for the whole family!

Saturday, April 20
12-1 pm
Ages 8+
$5/person
REGISTER

Up, Up, and Away: Kites Around the World

To extend the Earth Day celebrations, join CultureALL for a fun and educational kite-making workshop where participants will learn about the history of kites across cultures, examine their popularity as a pastime, and make their own kite to take home. This interactive workshop is offered in conjunction with the Earth Day Family Fun event. Space is limited, so be sure to pre-register.

Saturday, April 20
1-2 pm
Ages 5-14
$5/person
REGISTER

Earth Day & Beyond

Earth Day is celebrated annually on April 22 to raise awareness and support for environmental protection, but the City of West Des Moines is extending this beyond a single day by offering many eco-friendly activities this spring.

Landscaping for Wildlife

Bringing nature closer to home can be a rewarding experience for both you and local wildlife. Learn the reasons and methods for inviting wildlife into your yard.

Tuesday, April 2
5:30-6:30 pm
Ages 17+
$5/person
REGISTER

Earth Month Park Clean Ups

Join us in caring for our parks as we clean up trash and remove invasive plants. These free events bring together volunteers to give back to our community parks. We will supply gloves, bags, and guidance. Please register so we can contact you with details or updates. Wear clothes and shoes that can get dirty.

Stormwater Assistance Program

The City of West Des Moines has developed a reimbursement program to assist City residents with installing water quality improvement projects on their properties. The goal of this program is to encourage residents to reduce stormwater runoff, collect stormwater for yard/garden use, and improve the soil quality of their properties. Learn more and apply for your reimbursement at www.wdm.iowa.gov/swap.