LOUISVILLE, Ky. — April 22 is Earth Day, and the Louisville Zoo is once again holding a month-long celebration in honor of the planet. 

As part of "Party for the Planet: A Month-Long Celebration of the Earth," presented by LG&E and KU Foundation, the zoo will host several weekend activities and discounted admission opportunities to celebrate and promote the need to protect the Earth.

New this year is the "Kids in Action" program, where families and individuals can participate in environmentally beneficial projects from their backyards. Participants are encouraged to choose an activity promoting conservation efforts while submitting photos and an explanation.

Submissions will be accepted through April 16 with four winners selected April 18 in a random drawing. The zoo said winners will receive a zoo prize package and be invited to a news conference April 21 celebrating Earth Month.  

“We are proud to once again host this month-long celebration of earth’s remarkable ecosystems,” said Dan Maloney, director of the Louisville Zoo. “Wildlife needs everyone to thrive, and 'Party for the Planet' provides the perfect opportunity for people to learn how they can help promote and protect wildlife and wild places."

Festivities kick off with Recycling Weekends April 6, 13 and 20. The zoo will host various conservation organizations who will offer tips and suggestions on how to protect the environment, along with animal presentations and keeper talks.

Taking place each Saturday in April from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m., "ZooPoopyDoo" will offer visitors unique compost sales for $45 per scoop. Guests can also enjoy "FunDayMondays" April 8, 15, 22 and 29, where admission will be $7.25, with a portion of proceeds going toward conservation efforts worldwide. 

"Earth Day at the Zoo" is set for Sunday, April 21, with $5 off general admission, free all-day parking and community eco partners in attendance from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The celebration culminates with the zoo's plant sale Saturday, April 27 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“Our earth and its resources are precious, and this event is the perfect opportunity to celebrate them,” said Mary Kate Gray, manager of corporate responsibility and community affairs at LG&E and KU. “We’re proud to continue this long-standing partnership with the Zoo to help foster this tradition and a love of the environment within our community.”

More information about "Party for the Planet" can be found on the Louisville Zoo's website.