Earth Day Idea: Plan a Party

One fun way to spread the word about conservation and celebrate the planet is to host your own Earth Day party! Here are some tips on how to make your green fête enjoyable for you, your guests, and the planet.

1. Use Eco-invites. Instead of using paper, send your invitations online. http://www.evite.com/ has some great "green-themed" invitations as well as helpful ideas and tools on how to set the mood.

   
   

2. Help Arrange Green Transportation. Encourage attendees to walk, bike, carpool, or take public transportation. For those that are coming from out of town, suggest that attendees check to see if their car rental company offers hybrid options.

   
   

3. Choose a Natural Color Scheme. Throw your party in a natural setting such as a local park, nature center, or in your own backyard. Since this Earth Day is in Spring, use bright colors as decorations, or use blue and green to call upon the colors of the planet. For a twist on party favors, use small potted plants or tree saplings as decorations that guests can then take home with them and plant.

   
   

4. Serve Earth Friendly Entrees. Eating local, organic produce has much less of an impact on the environment, and can provide an opportunity for your guests to try something they may have never had before. Serving a largely vegetarian menu such as soy cheese wedges and crackers, fresh veggie trays with fresh fruit or soy ice cream sandwiches for dessert will also encourage guests to consider adding more produce and vegetarian selections into their daily diet.

   
   

5. Make Being Green Easy. Instead of using paper and plastic utensils, use cloth napkins and regular silverware, plates and glasses. Fun, reusable products can be purchased at most local furniture or home goods stores.

Most of all, use this Earth Day to educate, celebrate, and have fun.