Earth Day or Earth Day?

March 14, 2012

Did you know there are actually two Earth Day celebrations? 

One Earth Day falls on the Vernal Equinox in March and the other on April 22nd. So what’s the difference you ask?

The Vernal Equinox Earth Day is "a universal holiday – to celebrate the wonders of our planet."  A highlight of the annual Earth Day ceremony at the United Nations is the ringing of the Peace Bell. The Peace Bell was a gift from Japan. It was made from coins given by school children to further peace on our planet.  On Earth Day, the Peace Bell is rung at the moment of spring. In 2012, the exact moment of spring is March 20th at 1:14 AM (EDT).

The April 22nd Earth Day "is widely credited with launching the modern environmental movement. People of all nationalities and backgrounds voice their appreciation for the planet and demand its protection." The April Earth Day’s slogan for 2012 is "Mobilize the Earth."

So, celebrate Earth Day March 20th and April 22nd.  Better yet, celebrate the Earth every day!

Chris P.
Claycomo Branch