Family redwood hike and eco-carnival Saturday April 29 is fun for everyone

A student learns to safely handle a snake at a previous Summit for the Planet. Photo courtesy Mount Madonna School

By Staff Report

A student learns to safely handle a snake at a previous Summit for the Planet.
Photo courtesy Mount Madonna School

From barn owls and bearded dragons to California kingsnakes and turkey vultures, the opportunity to get up close and hands-on with wildlife at the annual Summit for the Planet Earth Day festival is always a huge draw. Children and adults alike enjoy the many birds, reptiles and amphibians shared by the Bay Area Herpetological Society and Wildlife Education Rehabilitation Center, two participants in this community eco-festival.

Everyone is welcome to check out the wildlife and family-friendly activities at the 17th annual Summit for the Planet on Saturday, April 29 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Mount Madonna School. This free admission public event begins with a 5K family hike through the redwoods, and features an eco-carnival, face painting, live wildlife and reptile area, a “trash fashion” show, model solar car races, activities, live music and tasty food.

Hike registration begins at 9 a.m. and the hike starts at 10 a.m., with the eco-carnival opening at 11:00am, followed by music, the Trash Fashion show and learning expo. The event concludes at 1 p.m.

With its unique spotlight on environmental education, the Summit for the Planet festival has grown to some 500 people of all ages, from south Santa Clara, San Benito, Santa Cruz and Monterey counties.

“Summit for the Planet is a celebration of Earth Day and honors our school’s rich tradition of teaching environmental stewardship and raising environmentally aware children,” said Head of School Ann Goewert.

 

Things to know when you go:

17th annual Summit for the Planet family hike and Earth Day festival, April 29 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Hosted by Mount Madonna School, 491 Summit Road, Watsonville, located 2.5 miles off of Hwy. 152, between Gilroy and Watsonville. The celebration has free admission.

For more event information visit: SummitforthePlanet.org.