Earth Day is more important than ever in 2026: Here’s a list of notable events happening around the world

We all call planet Earth home and benefit from having a healthy dwelling place. Earth Day, which is today (Wednesday, April 22), is a great time to reflect on our responsibility to maintain and preserve this sanctuary for future generations.

Let’s take a look at the history of the holiday and some of the festivities and demonstrations taking place around the world this year.

Who created Earth Day?

While it is now a global event, Earth Day was first conceived by Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin and Representative Pete McCloskey of California, and held on college campuses in the United States in 1970.

The men were inspired by the student anti-war protest movement. The book Silent Spring, published in 1962 and written by Rachel Carson, also helped change public consciousness and set the stage for environmental awareness. 

Was the first Earth Day successful?

The first Earth Day was considered a protest or teach-in. Twenty million Americans took to the streets to raise awareness about the dangers of unchecked industrial development.

To put that number in context, that was about 10% of the population of the United States at the time.

This event’s impact helped pass important legislation, such as the National Environmental Education Act, the Occupational Safety and Health Act, and the Clean Air Act.

It also aided in the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

What Earth Day events are happening in 2026?

Flash forward to the present, and Earth Day is less protest and more celebration, although protests are happening today too.

The theme for Earth Day 2026 is “our power, our planet.” This urges participants to focus on small actions that add up to the greater good, such as reducing plastic use and planting trees. This year also emphasizes innovation, especially in renewable energy.

There are many events all over the world to help you learn about how to protect and celebrate the planet.

• In Kyoto, Japan, events last all month long and include markets, yoga, and sustainability workshops.
• In Kenya, people are teaming up to clean the Nairobi River.
• In Padova, Italy, scientists Filippo Giorgi and Carlo Buontempo will take part in a free panel discussion on climate change and how cities can adapt.
• Closer to home in Santa Barbara, California, the festivities at Alameda Park will take place over the weekend on April 25 and 26. The weekend event includes a green car show and music.

Which protests are happening?

Going back to its activist roots in Washington, D.C., two rallies are being held.

The first by XRDC and Third Act took place on April 21 at 10:30 a.m. ET outside Apple Carnegie Library. The event called on leaders to stop building AI data centers because of the negative impact these have on the environment.

The following day, the CCAN Action Fund will lead a group at the Wilson Building to help remind the mayor and the D.C. Council to properly fund climate and environment programs. The event starts at 8:15 a.m. ET.