Earth Day 2025: Why we celebrate the planet that keeps us grounded, how to get involved

 

Happy Earth Day! For the 55th year, the world is using the day to celebrate Mother Nature and the wonderful planet we live on.

"Earth Day really is a symbol of the environmental movement," Sarah Davies, the director of communications and media at EarthDay.org, told USA TODAY. "You know, it started back in 1970 under President Nixon, which is always kind of amazing to think about."

Earth Day has always been a day that acknowledges our planet, which provides for us, and ways we can protect and preserve its beauty.

That being said, here's everything you should know about Earth Day 2025, and its 55th annual celebration.

When is Earth Day?

Earth Day falls on April 22 every year. This year, it falls on a Tuesday.

The day has been celebrated for 55 years, but it isn't federally recognized, as previously reported by USA TODAY.

Earth Day 2025: For Earth Day 2025, list of America's Climate Leaders has grown significantly

Why do we celebrate Earth Day?

The first Earth Day was celebrated in 1970, when 20 million people attended inaugural events at schools, universities, and other public areas around the country, according to the Library of Congress's website. The march happened after more disasters caused by climate change and pollution impacted the country.

Have a positive outlook on Earth Day 2025

Sharing positive news about the climate crisis can encourage others to tackle the issue and keep people optimistic about the future, Leila Yassine, the Rainforest Alliance's global advocacy engagement manager, previously told USA TODAY.

No matter how one chooses to celebrate Earth Day or fight against climate change, Yassine said it is essential to remain positive about the future.

"Share ideas and this will really cultivate collective optimism," she said. "It's like you have little seeds and then you're feeding it. You're feeding it until it gives you this beautiful tree of hope."