Earth Day in Orlando 2012 will mark the 42nd anniversary of the inaugural Earth Day celebrated in the spring of 1970. It was first organized by Senator Gaylor Nelson, founder of the event. The purpose of the event was to be a grassroots movement calling attention to environmental issues and a peaceful demonstration of concern for the environment.

Although the Earth Day festivities still have a political edge to it, most observers see it as a mainstream way to support a pro-environment agenda. In fact, most see Earth Day expanding into a full week observation (Earth Week) to raise consciousness of green and conservation issues.

Earth Week in Orlando tends to have a low key following. Most of the parks will advertise some type of green theme tie-in, but these events tend to be low key. Having said this, we have come up with our own itinerary of “green” events or venues in Orlando and Central Florida that anyone can support, monitor and patronize:

• Florida Eco Safaris and Zipline – A fun and adventurous way for families and individuals to get outdoors and enjoy the area. We featured this attraction in a previous post.
• Florida Audubon Center for Birds of Prey – This gets our vote for the top “Environmental Education” attraction in Central Florida. This is located in Maitland, Florida about 30 minutes north of most vacation home communities. The center treats about 650 injured eagles, owls and falcons.
• The Nature Conservancy’s Disney Nature Preserve – This is a 12,000 acre preserve located on much of wetlands and underdeveloped lakes. Activities include a hiking trail where one can learn about native plants and animals.
• Florida State Parks – Wekiwa Springs State Park will encourage eco-volunteerism from 9 a.m to 4 p.m. at the park.
• Universal Studios Earth Week – Universal supports greening during the year, but to our knowledge has not been an activist in its parks for Earth Day.
• SeaWorld offers a special gift for anyone visiting the park on Earth Day.
• The Central Florida Earth Day celebration will be held at Lake Eola Park. Activities will include speakers, education, music, art and food.

Vacation home guests will enjoy any of these events or venues to celebrate Earth Week in Orlando. If you are planning a vacation to Central Florida, consult our community reviews located on the main page of this website. There are over 80 resort reviews posted with details, amenities and locations.