Bergen Co. Invites Public To 'Party For The Planet'

BERGEN COUNTY, NJ — Bergen County invites the public to "party for the planet" on Earth Day at the local zoo.

On April 22 and 23, from 10 a.m. to 4 pm., the Bergen County Zoo will feature conservation-themed activities to educate visitors on the behind-the-scenes work at the facility, all to celebrate the 53rd Earth Day.

"Party for the Planet" is one of the zoo's most popular events welcoming more than 1,000 visitors annually, and this year, the historically one-day event will — for the second year — turn into a weekend outing, officials said.

Building on a "Change for the Climate" initiative, the zoo will feature local conservation organizations to educate and involve the public on April 22, and showcase conservation efforts within the facility on April 23.

"Don't miss out on this special Earth Day celebration," Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco said. "Party for the Planet is your one-stop shop for conservation programming, providing residents with the opportunity and resources to support local efforts.

The zoo, located in the Van Saun County Park, is dedicated to supporting conservation efforts around the world, director Marianne Vella said.

"Party for the Planet — our favorite event of the year — gives us a special opportunity to increase awareness as well as showcase efforts being made by local groups," Vella said.

"Our visitors can observe and experience real ways to help the environment," she added. "Building connections within our community is key to our mission of understanding and preserving our planet."