Earth Day was created in 1970 to bring awareness to environmental issues. Now a global celebration of all things planet Earth, people of all ages are encouraged to take part in Earth Day festivities on April 22. Whether you are planting a community garden or learning about endangered wildlife, these events happening around the Houston area will be sure to inspire and educate the whole family.  

You say it's your Earth Day; well it's my Earth Day, too, yeah! And yes, we're gonna have a good time. Earth Day is one of those holidays that just screams kids. And when we say scream, we mean outdoor voices. Oh sure, Halloween has its ghosts and goblins; Christmas has its presents, and Easter has its chocolate bunnies (melting in the SoCal sun if not found quickly). But Earth Day is a holiday when families of all backgrounds can come together to appreciate our planet and keep our outdoors great for generations to come. And since loving the environment is something Californians take particular pride in, it's not surprising that we're spoiled for choice for celebrating Earth Day around LA.

NYC families turned out in droves for the city's annual Easter Parade and Easter Bonnet Festival, from babies in strollers to groups of moms in long gloves and neon-hued hats. Bedecked in all manner of costume and creative bonnets, the Easter Sunday revelers mingled along Fifth Avenue in Midtown, gathering near St. Patrick's Cathedral across from Rockefeller Center. 

The energy was pure positivity with spring colors and flowers, as well as NYC's theatrical streak on full display, reports our videographer and photographer who attended this year's fun on April 16. She described it as a "bit like a fashion show." It's FREE silly fun and uber family friendly with balloon artists, dancing, and puppetry; no wonder it's one of our top recommended things to do with NYC kids in April and this spring.

Check out the video and photos below of some of the coolest kids and families at the beloved annual fest.

On your mark, get set, GO! It’s marathon time, which means Bostonians have running on the brain. Aspiring runners don’t need to be adults to learn to run like Desi Linden or Meb Keflezighi. Seven local running clubs for children will help kids learn to run or train to be the track stars of the future. Whether or not your kid is Olympics-bound, these clubs also promote sportsmanship, friendship, fitness, and self-confidence—which are worth just as much as a medal.

They say big things come in small packages. Gulliver's Gate, the newest attraction to arrive in Times Square, proves just that. Now open for previews—with its official opening slated for early May—this inspiring destination shrinks our global community into 49,000 square feet of captivating detail, giving visitors a glimpse at all corners of the world.

My daughters and I attended a preview and, even though some parts are still in the works, we agree Gulliver's Gate definitely deserves its spot on our 2017 GoList. We've got tips for exploring this exhibit with kids, including some fun facts about the displays, engaging interactive elements, and other perks.

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Big, splashy, and downright fantastic playgrounds and parks abound in Boston, and they're the cornerstone of spring and summer fun around town. But sometimes you need a rec space where mayhem is at a minimum, and keeping track of your kid doesn't feel like a "Where's Waldo" challenge. If you’re looking for a playground that won’t be packed with children (and their parents), you’re in luck! Here’s a list of seven local playgrounds where you and your kids might be able to frolic in (relative) peace and quiet.

Houston is home to tons of places to throw the best birthday party, from indoor spots to science-themed laboratories for your little Einstein. But if you really want to kick the festivities up a notch and plan a party that will go down in your family's history as the best. party. ever., then look no further. Here are seven ideas for planning a spectacular bash. And for more inspiration, check out our birthday party guide.