It's no fun coming home to a mess. And since the Earth is home to us all, it's nice to pitch in every once in a while to keep things tidy. Technically, Earth Day (April 22) falls on a Monday this year — but if you've got a free weekend, there are plenty of ways to help clean up the metro.

🏞️ The Great Kansas City Cleanup 2024

Step one: check out KCMO's directory of cleanup events today-Sunday, April 21 for the annual Great Kansas City Cleanup. This initiative pulls together local community groups, neighborhood associations, and volunteers to pick up various locations around the city.

Friday's festivities may already be underway, so double check that they accept drop-ins. But most of the action, including cleanups around the Plaza, Swope Park, and Brush Creek Greenway, takes place starting Saturday, April 20. Check dates, times, and safety tips on the volunteer signup form.

🌳 Other cleanups + activities

Looking for more options? The official Earth Day website has an interactive map of global cleanups in your area. Otherwise, check out:

2024 Citywide Clean Up | Saturday, April 20 | 9 a.m.-12 p.m. | Beverly Park, 5935 Beverly Ave., Mission, KS | Following a kick-off breakfast, volunteers will fan out and help keep Mission sparkly clean.
Overland Park Recycling Extravaganza | Saturday, April 20 | 9 a.m.-3 p.m. | Black & Veatch, 11401 Lamar Ave., Overland Park, KS | Community vendors are on hand to accept clothing, medications, tires, pet supplies, and whatever else you found during spring cleaning.
Earth Day at Lakeside Nature Center | Saturday, April 20 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | Lakeside Nature Center, 4701 E. Gregory Blvd., KCMO | Join naturalists to learn about our local ecosystem with presentations + hands-on crafts.
Stream Clean | Saturday, April 20 | All day | Various streams across Overland Park, KS | Volunteers will wade in and bag trash in OP's waterways.

Bonus: Cultivate KC's urban farm service day is full up — but you can still sign up for its Mobile Volunteer Program + help Mother Nature all season long.