Annual Summit for the Planet

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). 

For the 16th annual Summit for the Planet, everyone is welcome to check out the wildlife and family-friendly activities on Saturday, April 23 from 9:00am to 1:30pm at Mount Madonna School. This FREE public event begins with a 5K family hike through the redwoods, and features an eco-carnival, pony rides, face painting, live wildlife and reptile area, a “trash fashion” show, model solar car races, activities, music and tasty food.

Hike registration begins at 9:00am; the hike starts at 10:00am, with music and the eco-carnival starting at 11:00am. The event concludes at 1:30pm. 

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.”

Things to know when you go:
16th annual Summit for the Planet family hike and Earth Day festival, April 23 from 9:00am-1:30pm. 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.