Hello, Granite Staters!
Did you know the very first Earth Day happened back on April 22, 1970? It all started when Sen. Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin saw a chance to channel the passion of the student anti-war movement into something new: protecting the planet. His idea caught fire — more than 20 million Americans showed up for rallies, teach-ins, and clean-ups. It became one of the biggest public demonstrations in US history.
That wave of action helped create the EPA and led to major environmental wins like the Clean Air and Clean Water Acts.
Fast forward to today, and Earth Day has gone global. Over a billion people in more than 190 countries take part each year.
This special edition newsletter is all about Earth Day. Here’s what I’m covering today:
🌎 What to know about Discover WILD NH Day on April 19 — it’s free!
🏞️ Visit a national park for free to celebrate National Park Week
🌱 Hidden gem state parks in NH to see
🗓️ Earth Day events for you calendar
Let’s dive in!
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NH Wildlife Heritage Foundation
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What to know about Discover WILD NH Day on April 19
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Discover WILD NH Day started over 30 years ago as a way to celebrate Earth Day and get people outside. It’s grown into a mega event since then.
It’s packed with stuff (so much that it might be too much to see all in one day).
“Our job is to connect people to the outdoors and this does it,” said Mark Beauchesne of New Hampshire Fish and Game.
There are hands-on activities, wildlife encounters, and live demonstrations.
One of the most popular exhibits is the golden retriever dogs from Rise and Shine Retrievers. The dogs demonstrate skills akin to what you’d see duck hunting.
🎯 Here’s what to expect:
Live animals (including big fish and trained falcons!)
Archery, casting, and fly-tying demos
Air rifle range & retriever dog shows
Conservation exhibits & wild crafts
Meet-and-greets with biologists and conservation officers
And don’t miss food truck alley — open all day.
⏰ It starts at 10 a.m. April 19 on the grounds of the Fish and Game Department at 11 Hazen Drive in Concord.
🎟️ Admission is free and open to the public.
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🏞️ What to know about National Park Week
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To kick off National Park Week (April 19–27), the National Park Service is waiving entrance fees at all US. national parks and monuments on Saturday, April 19.
Here’s what you need to know about local places to explore:
1. Appalachian National Scenic Trail
The trail isn’t a park, per say, but it’s maintained by the National Park Service. Try trekking a section of the iconic A.T. as it winds through the stunning White Mountains.
2. Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park (Cornish, NH)
Step into the world of master sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens. This park offers art, history, gardens, and a peaceful slice of inspiration in the Upper Valley. The park grounds and trails are open year round and can be explored for free up until Memorial Day weekend. The buildings open starting Memorial Day weekend.
👉 Want to explore more parks? Find one near you.
🗓️ Other Free Park Days in 2025:
Jan. 20 – Martin Luther King Jr. Day
April 19 – First Day of National Park Week
June 19 – Juneteenth
Aug. 4 – Great American Outdoors Act Anniversary
Sept. 27 – National Public Lands Day
Nov. 11 – Veterans Day
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NH’s hidden gem state parks worth a visit
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Looking to go off the beaten path in NH? These spots don’t get the same crowds as a place like Franconia Notch State Park, but they’ve got some serious charm. Memorial Day weekend is when most of these parks are in full swing.
🏞️ 1. Mollidgewock State Park
Where: Errol
Why it’s a gem: Tucked way up north along the Androscoggin River, this is a paddler’s paradise with peaceful campsites and amazing stargazing. Moose sightings? Very likely.
🦉 2. Milan Hill State Park
Where: Milan
Why it’s a gem: Quiet, remote, and full of Northern NH vibes. The fire tower gives sweeping views of the mountains and you can stay in one of the park’s rustic yurts.
🌼 3. Wadleigh State Park
Where: Sutton
Why it’s a gem: A low-key spot on Kezar Lake that’s great for families. There’s a beach, picnic area, and walking trails with gorgeous lake views—without the buzz of bigger parks.
🌳 4. Clough State Park
Where: Weare
Why it’s a gem: Perfect for a quiet swim or paddle on Everett Lake. It’s scenic, calm, and easy to miss—ideal for a laid-back summer day.
👉 For more, check out Alltrail’s list of NH’s most popular state parks.
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Earth Day events for your calendar
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🌎 Earth Day Open House
Sunapee – April 22, 4–6 p.m.
Celebrate Earth Day at the Center for Lake Studies with hands-on activities, soil testing, watershed-friendly gardening tips, and free pollinator-friendly seeds.
More info →
🌱 Monadnock Region Earth Festival
Keene – April 26, all day
A community celebration of sustainability, local food, live music, and eco-friendly vendors at the Monadnock Food Co-op, Railroad Square, and nearby spaces. Includes an EV showcase and BBQ from 12–4 p.m.
More info →
🗣️ Earth Day Community Conversation
Concord – April 21, evening
Join Concord’s Energy and Environment Advisory Committee for updates on local sustainability efforts, remarks from Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander and Mayor Champlin, and community Q&A.
More info →
🌎 Earth Day Festival
Rindge — April 26, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
A day filled with music, food, discussions, guided nature walks, and activities for all ages!
More info →
Earth Day Celebration
Manchester — April 26
Families are invited to join education students from UNH-Manchester. There will be fun crafts to make from recycled materials and games.
More info →
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