Earth Day

Earth Day Clear Lake: Celebrate, Explore, Take Action!

“The Shape of Nature” All Media Art Contest & Exhibit

On display April 7-22, 2026 at the Clear Lake Arts Center
Artists are invited to explore the forms, patterns, and presence of the natural world. Works should reflect Iowa’s landscapes, ecosystems, wildlife, or environmental themes. Artists are encouraged to consider sustainable practices and environmentally conscious materials when possible. Submissions will be accepted March 21-April 7. The public is invited to stop by the Clear Lake Arts Center to enjoy the work of our talented local artists and vote for their favorite during regular business hours from April 7-22. There will be a special awards reception on April 22nd from 5-6:30pm, with awards announced at 6pm. The Clear Lake Arts Center is open 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday. You can review art submission rules here.

Endangered Eating: America’s Vanishing Foods by Sarah Lohman Book Chat & Books on Tap

Books on Tap: Wednesday, April 15, 2026 at 6 p.m. at Laketime Brewery
Book Chat: Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at 12 p.m. at the Clear Lake Public Library
Endangered Eating: America’s Vanishing Foods by Sarah Lohman is a culinary travelogue exploring foods at risk of disappearing from the American diet, inspired by Slow Food’s Ark of Taste. Lohman travels the country to learn about and document these rare ingredients, from heirloom sugarcane in Hawaii to Navajo Churro lamb and Carolina African runner peanuts, highlighting the cultural importance of these foods and the people preserving them, while also addressing the impacts of colonialism and capitalism on foodways. The book serves as both an entertaining story and a guide for readers to support local food producers and traditions

Earth Day 5K & 10K Races & Youth Mile

Saturday, April 18, 2026 at 8:30 a.m. & 9 a.m. at Clear Lake City Park
The Earth Day 5K and 10K races are an exciting part of the Clear Lake Earth Day festivities, taking place at 9:00 a.m. The race begins lakeside at the Main Avenue boat ramp and takes runners on a loop around City Park before heading out along South Shore Drive. The 5K turnaround is located at the Y intersection at 20th Ave South and the 10K turnaround is near Lakeside Cyclery. The race finishes in front of the Lady of the Lake, where prizes will be awarded for each race. The Earth Day 5K and 10K races are a great way to enjoy some exercise and celebrate sustainability and environmental awareness in Clear Lake. Click here to register. Join us as a volunteer for the Earth Day Race!  Click here to volunteer. 
The Earth Day Youth Mile is aimed at promoting outdoor activity and environmental awareness for young people. This race takes place at 8:30 a.m., right before the Earth Day 5K & 10K races, and is open to kids of all ages. Every finisher will receive a cool wooden medal & coloring tote, making it a fun and rewarding way for kids to get involved and make a difference. The Earth Day Youth Mile is a great opportunity for kids to enjoy some fresh air, exercise, and environmental education in a fun and supportive atmosphere. Click here to register.

OutdoorFest

Saturday, April 18, 2026 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Clear Lake City Park
OutdoorFest offers a variety of family-fun activities and educational opportunities aimed at promoting outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship. It’s the perfect opportunity to spend a day outdoors with family and friends while learning about sustainability and enjoying the beauty of Clear Lake.

Enjoy these activities during OutdoorFest:

• Outdoor Play Toys Community Share (Lakeview Room until 12 p.m.)
• Bounce House
• Human Foosball
• Gaga Ball
• Strider Bike Course
• Family Games (Connect 4, giant JENGA, croquet, potato sack race, tug of war, corn hole, obstacle course, fun run, Go Wild Parade)
• Disc Golf
• Shredding Truck

Trash Bash Community Cleanup

The week of April 18-24, 2026 throughout Clear Lake
The Trash Bash Community Cleanup is an annual Earth Day event happening all week long from April 18-24. This event offers an opportunity for Clear Lakers to make a difference in their community and show their commitment to sustainability by picking up trash in their neighborhoods, parks, and public spaces. Individuals, families, and groups can register for their favorite cleanup site(s) and compete for the coveted “Green Jacket” by collecting the most trash and recruiting the most volunteers. The Trash Bash is an important way to promote environmental stewardship and community involvement in Clear Lake, and is a great way to make a tangible impact on the health and beauty of our town. Click here to sign up to participate in the Trash Bash!

North Iowa Green Expo & Indoor Farmers Market

Thursday, April 23, 2026 from 4-7 p.m. at the Surf Ballroom & Museum
The North Iowa Green Expo & Indoor Farmers Market is one of the main events of Clear Lake Earth Day, providing a platform for local businesses, non-profits, and organizations to showcase their green products and services alongside our Indoor Farmers Market featuring fresh produce, baked goods, honey, and more. Held on April 23 at the historic Surf Ballroom, the North Iowa Green Expo & Indoor Farmers Market, in partnership with Healthy Harvest of North Iowa & the Clear Lake Farmers Market, offers an opportunity to learn about sustainable practices, energy efficiency ideas, gardening tips, and more. Visitors can sample fresh local food, browse eco-friendly products, and talk to experts about environmental issues, and purchase from their favorite Clear Lake Farmers Market Vendors. The North Iowa Green Expo & Market is free and open to the public, and is a great way to kick off a week of celebrating sustainability and community involvement in Clear Lake. Sign up as a Green Expo exhibitor or vendor!