This Earth Day, celebrate your passion for the Earth in Estes Park with nature, film, dark skies and environmental awareness.
From April 20-28, 2024, Estes Park will be buzzing with a series of events aimed at educating and inspiring visitors and the community on topics related to the environment.
Astronaut Loren Shriver's Space Shuttle Mission is a can't-miss event for those interested in space exploration and dark skies. Learn about Shriver's experiences as a NASA astronaut and hear his firsthand account of the deployment of the Hubble Space Telescope. The discussion will also cover various operations performed in space, including a detailed explanation of how re-entry is performed.
Join award-winning nature photographer and local guide, Dawn Wilson, for an evening of star-gazing and storytelling. Hear the stories behind her stunning night sky photos and learn about the impacts of light pollution on wildlife and our planet.
Another of the week's highlights is the Estes Park Environmental Film Festival. Presented by the Rocky Mountain Channel, this two-day event will showcase thought-provoking documentaries that explore diversity and sustainability. You won't want to miss the premiere of "Wild Ride, the Peak to Peak Highway," a film that delves into Estes Park's unique connection to unconventional travelers. Plus, there will be special appearances by Estes Park local Nico Strange Owl and meteorologist Mike Nelson, adding an extra layer of excitement to the festival.
In addition to film screenings and astronaut talks, the Student Environmental Film Festival will screen five-minute films submitted by local students and include a filmmaker Q&A. This festival allows young filmmakers to showcase their work and shed light on the environmental issues important to them.
The Water is Finite Symposium is a must-do for those looking to delve deeper into water conservation and sustainability. A renowned meteorologist, the state climatologist and others will share their knowledge and insights on the story of water in Colorado. Gain a deeper understanding of the challenges we face and discover ways experts are working to address the issue of water supply and demand in Northern Colorado.
And if you enjoy storytelling, the Story Slam will be a lot of fun. Similar to The Moth’s process, join fellow storytellers as they share stories that speak to the theme of Call of the Wild. It's a chance to connect with others and be inspired by the power of storytelling.
Earth Week Event Details
- Loren Shriver’s Space Shuttle Mission, April 24 at the YMCA of the Rockies Estes Park Center. RSVPs requested.
- Student-led Environmental Film Festival, April 25 at the Estes Park High School Auditorium. Free.
- Estes Park Environmental Film Festival, April 26 & 27 at the Historic Park Theatre. Ticketed.
- Water is Finite, A Symposium, April 27 at the Estes Valley Community Center. RSVPs requested.
- Story Slam, April 28 at the Historic Park Theatre. Ticketed.
Earth Week Special Offers
Treat yourself to these Earth Week-themed special offers from Estes Park businesses:
- Plant a Tree with Qi Lounge Wellness Spa
- Spring Rejuvenation at Elements Spa
Give Back
Take part in Estes Park's annual Community Clean-up hosted by the Estes Park Rotary. Meet at the Visitor Center (500 Big Thompson Ave) at 9 am on Saturday, April 27, to sign up.
With all this fun, you'll want to stay the night!
Find out which Estes Park hotels have sustainable initiatives.
Learn more about and find ticket and RSVP links for Earth Week in Estes Park.
