While Earth Day is celebrated on April 22, festivities ensue all week long in both Portland and Eugene. These events aim to honor our planet the way it was intended, when the celebration first began in 1970.
On April 25, Earth Day in the Park wishes to spread the message of sustainability and love for nature. Music, workshops and speakers address environmental issues we face today.
“Earth Day and Earth Week are important because a major step toward solving environmental problems is awareness,” said Micaela Hyams, an environmental science major.
Hyams explained that Earth Day’s origination first began as a teach-in, so knowledge about the earth is still a major theme of the celebration today.
“Events like (Earth Day in the Park) are a great reminder to think about why we value this planet and how we impact it,” Hyams said.
Attend at: Alton Baker Park, 2 p.m.
Other events to check out this weekend include:
Eugene:
April 24-26 Hairspray the Musical
Come see the famous musical turned Hollywood film. The year is 1962, and Baltimore’s lovable plus-size teen Tracy Turnblad dreams of dancing on a popular television show.
New Hope Center Auditorium, 1790 Charnelton St., Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. Sunday at 3 p.m., $15 for students
April 24-26 University of Oregon Opera Ensemble presents Hänsel und Gretel
The university’s award-winning opera ensemble will perform the eerie Brothers Grimm classic fairytale of witches and candy. The audience is said to find themselves transported by the performance’s melodies, lush romantic orchestration and magical forests.
Soreng Theater, Hult Center for the Performing Arts, 7th Avenue and Willamette Street, Friday-Saturday at 7:30 p.m., Sunday at 3 p.m., $7 for students
April 24 Ducks After Dark presents Interstellar
In honor of Earth Week, Interstellar will play to show a whole new perspective on an alternate planet earth. Bring your student ID for free admission, reusable mugs, decorating supplies, pizza, popcorn, Pepsi and a raffle.
Prince Lucien Campbell, Room 180, 8:30 p.m.
April 25 Plucky Maidens Spring Junk Fest 
One man’s trash is another man’s treasure! Find some vintage items, listen to some live music and munch on sweet treats from Mad Batters.
Irving Grange 1011 Irvington Dr., 12p.m.–6 p.m., $5
April 25 Jason Aldean
If you haven’t scored tickets yet it may not be too late. The popular country artist will be in Eugene this weekend – and who doesn’t love country music when the weather is this nice?
Matthew Knight Arena, 7:30 p.m., $60 General Admission
April 25 Try-It Triathlon
This triathlon is designed for everyone – hence the “try-it.” The event consists of a 400-yard indoor swim, 8-mile indoor bike and 2-mile run. Registration closes on April 24 at noon.
Rec Center, 8:30 a.m., $25
Portland:
April 24 Portland Art Museum
On the fourth Friday of every month, the glorious Portland Art Museum offers free admission. Current exhibits include: “Italian Style: Fashion Since 1945” and “Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads: Gold.”
934 SW Salmon St., 5 p.m.–8 p.m.
April 25 Earth Day PDX 
Celebrate Earth Week with live music produced by Abstract Earth Project, speakers, placemaking through the City Repair Project and an entire area reserved for bicycle parking.
Normandale Park 
NE 57 Ave/Halsey Street, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
April 25 82nd Avenue Roses Parade
The parade celebrates many local businesses and groups within Portland including: classic vehicle enthusiasts, community leaders, local marching bands, military groups and carnival.
East Port Plaza at S.E. Boise Street, starts at 9:30 a.m.
April 25 Astronomy Day Celebration 
OMSI, Rose City Astronomers and Oregon Parks and Recreation offer free star parties, offering a great way to meet fellow astronomy lovers. You can view planets, the moon, stars and other celestial objects through telescopes.
Rooster Rock State Park & Stub Stewart State Park, 8 p.m.