Summit for the Planet 2023

Earth Day at mount madonna school

From barn owls and bearded dragons to California kingsnakes and turkey vultures, the opportunity to get up close and hands on with wildlife at Mount Madonna School’s 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), two participants in this community eco- festival.

Everyone is welcome to check out the wildlife and family friendly activities at the 17th annual Summit for the Planet on Saturday, April 29, 2023, from 9:00am to 1:00pm 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, exhibits, model solar car races, activities, music, and tasty food.

Hike registration begins at 9:00am and the hike starts at 9:30am. Music will get going at 10:30am and the eco-carnival opens at 11:00am. The event concludes at 1:00pm.

With its unique spotlight on environmental education, the Summit for the Planet festival has grown to more than 500 people of all ages, from south Santa Clara, San Benito, Santa Cruz, and Monterey counties.

“Mount Madonna School’s Summit for the Planet honors our school’s rich tradition of teaching environmental stewardship and raising environmentally aware children,” said Head of School Ann Goewert. “The 5K hike through the redwoods with ocean views is a wonderful opportunity for families to slow down, reconnect with nature and enjoy quality outdoor time together.”

Things to know when you go:

17th annual Summit for the Planet family hike and Earth Day festival, April 29 from 9:00am-1:00pm. Hosted by Mount Madonna School, 491 Summit Road, Mount Madonna, located 2.5 miles off of Hwy. 152, between Gilroy and Watsonville. FREE admission. For more event information visit: SummitforthePlanet.org.