Family Redwood Hike and Eco-Carnival at 17th Annual Summit for the Planet Festival
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 (BAHS) and Wildlife Education Rehabilitation Center (WERC), 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 9:00am to 1:00pm 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 9:00am; the hike starts at 10:00am, with the eco-carnival opening at 11:00am, followed by music, the Trash Fashion show and learning expo. The event concludes at 1:00pm.
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,” commented Head of School Ann Goewert, “and honors our school’s rich tradition of teaching environmental stewardship and raising environmentally aware children.”
8:30 am – Gates Open
9:00 am – Registration Opens
9:30 am – Opening Ceremony
10:00 am – Walk-a-thon
11:00 am – Eco-Carnival Opens
11:05 am – Mount Madonna School Performances
11:30 am – Trash Fashion Show
12:00 pm – Mount Madonna School Performance
12:30 pm – Guest Musical Performances
2:00 pm – Carnival Ends
Things to know when you go:
- April 29 from 9:00am-1:00pm
- 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.
Nestled among the redwoods on 375 acres, Mount Madonna School (MMS) is a diverse learning community dedicated to creative, intellectual, and ethical growth. MMS supports its students in becoming caring, self-aware, discerning and articulate individuals; and believe a fulfilling life includes personal accomplishments, meaningful relationships and service to society. The CAIS and WASC accredited program emphasizes academic excellence, creative self-expression and positive character development. Located on Summit Road between Gilroy and Watsonville. Founded in 1979.
