Every year, millions of people around the world switch off their lights for Earth Hour, a symbolic gesture to raise awareness about climate change and biodiversity loss. More than just an hour in the dark, this global event has become a call to action—an opportunity to reflect on our environmental impact and explore meaningful ways to protect the planet.
Whether at home, in a local park, or as part of a larger community initiative, celebrating Earth Hour creatively can help spark real change while still being a fun and memorable experience.
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Take the celebration outdoors
For those looking to embrace nature, an outdoor cinema experience isn’t the only way to enjoy Earth Hour under the stars. Hosting a night hike or a guided stargazing session can be an inspiring way to disconnect from artificial lights and reconnect with the natural world. Many reserves and parks remain open after dark, offering a chance to appreciate the stillness of the night while learning about local ecosystems.
Another way to take Earth Hour outside is by organising a sustainability-focused gathering, such as a zero-waste picnic. Using reusable containers, compostable cutlery, and locally sourced ingredients, a candlelit meal with friends can highlight the importance of reducing waste while celebrating the occasion in a relaxed, social setting.
Create a hands-on experience
For those who want to contribute beyond the hour, Earth Hour can be a starting point for long-term sustainable habits. A tree-planting event is a great way to get hands-on while making a tangible impact. Many organisations and community groups offer tree-planting initiatives, making it easy to get involved. Even planting a single tree at home can make a difference in improving air quality and providing habitat for wildlife.
Similarly, plogging—a combination of jogging and picking up litter—can turn an ordinary evening walk into an environmental clean-up effort. Whether done solo or with a group, it’s a practical and energising way to celebrate Earth Hour while leaving local parks and streets cleaner.
Bring sustainability into your home
For those staying in, Earth Hour is a perfect time to start new eco-friendly habits. A candlelit dinner using only sustainably sourced ingredients can serve as a fun challenge, encouraging the use of seasonal, plant-based foods and minimising food waste. Taking the extra step of composting scraps or growing fresh herbs at home can make a simple meal even more meaningful.
Another way to make Earth Hour productive is by decluttering and repurposing household items. Sorting through clothes, books, and electronics to donate or upcycle not only reduces waste but also contributes to a more mindful approach to consumption. Hosting a clothing swap or crafting session using recycled materials can add a creative element to the evening while promoting sustainability.
Make it a mindful moment
Earth Hour is not just about taking action but also about reflection. A yoga or meditation session focused on nature can be a powerful way to engage with the moment. Outdoor yoga, surrounded by fresh air and natural sounds, is a great way to appreciate the environment while practising mindfulness. Even a quiet hour spent reading about environmental topics or journaling about personal sustainability goals can help deepen one’s connection to the cause.
For families, storytelling by candlelight can be an engaging way to involve children in Earth Hour. Reading books about nature, wildlife conservation, or climate change can spark curiosity and encourage young minds to think about their role in protecting the planet.
Join the WWF South Africa for a day of sustainability
WWF South Africa is hosting two major Earth Hour events in the beautiful Kirstenbosch and Walter Sisulu national botanical gardens, in Cape Town and Johannesburg respectively on the 22 March 2025. Gates open at 6pm and the screening of the family friendly movie Happy Feet will commence at 8pm. Tickets cost R50 for children and R100 per adult and bookings can be made via Webtickets.
Make Earth Hour last beyond 60 minutes
While Earth Hour is a symbolic event, its real power lies in inspiring long-term changes. Small shifts in daily habits—whether it’s reducing energy consumption, cutting down on single-use plastics, or supporting ethical brands—can contribute to a more sustainable future. By using this time to reflect on personal habits and explore new ways to live more sustainably, the impact of Earth Hour can extend far beyond a single evening.
WWF’s initiative to expand Earth Hour into rural and township communities through free screenings ensures that the movement reaches as many people as possible. Whether attending one of these events, hosting a personal gathering, or simply spending the hour in quiet reflection, every effort counts in making Earth Hour 2025 truly the Biggest Hour for Earth.
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