EarthFest Returns: Family Fun Awaits at AMNH This Earth Day

NEW YORK CITY, NY — This Earth Day, the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) invites families to celebrate the planet with EarthFest, a full day of engaging activities designed to ignite curiosity about the natural world. Taking place on Saturday, April 5, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the event aims to educate children and parents alike about the unique ecosystems our planet has to offer.

Visitors can kick off their EarthFest experience in the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life, where they will find various identification activities. Children are encouraged to bring in specimens from their outdoor explorations—whether from a beach, park, garden, or backyard. Museum scientists will be available to help identify these discoveries, adding a hands-on learning element to the day.

“In past years, visitors have brought everything from a 3,000-year-old hand axe found in Staten Island to a 72-million-year-old shark tooth discovered in New Jersey,” said AMNH spokesperson Dr. Ellen Johnson. “This event is a unique way for families to connect with the scientific community and learn more about the world around them.”

After identifying their specimens, families can enjoy the Identification Games, which include match games, trivia, and various interactive activities to test their newfound knowledge.

Creative minds will find joy in the Craft Stations, where youngsters can explore their artistic side. At Craft Station 1, kids will learn about local flowers and create pressed-flower art. Meanwhile, Craft Station 2 will offer a chance to make friendship bracelets or animals inspired by different ecosystems using colorful beads and string.

One of the most popular activities is the “Be a Shark” Station, which allows kids to step in front of a screen and watch their movements reflected in real-time as they transform into a virtual shark. Another highlight is the InHerBeauty station, where marine-inspired hair, makeup, and nail art will be available for kids to create stunning ocean-themed looks.

In addition to ongoing activities, several timed events will occur throughout the day at the museum’s Gilder Center. Radiolab’s Terrestrials: The Monsters Among Us will run interactive sessions at 11:15 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 12:45 p.m., and 1:30 p.m. These sessions encourage children to rethink the concept of “monsters” in nature.

Microscopic Marvels: Exploring NYC’s Urban Ecosystem invites attendees to discover tiny creatures living in the city from noon to 3 p.m. Using microscopes, they can explore the hidden urban ecosystems of New York.

At 2 p.m., families can join award-winning author and illustrator Christopher Silas Neal for a special storytime featuring his book, We Leap Together, which celebrates connection in nature through beautifully illustrated storytelling.

EarthFest is free with museum admission and promises an engaging experience for families eager to learn about the environment while having fun. The American Museum of Natural History is located at 200 Central Park West, and further details about the event can be found by calling 212-769-5100.