MURFREESBORO, TN (WGNS) - The countdown is nearly over, and downtown Murfreesboro is just hours away from transforming into a lively hub of music, learning, and community pride for the 2026 Earth Day Celebration. The free, family‑friendly event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. this Saturday, April 18, all around the historic Murfreesboro Square.
Middle Tennessee Electric once again leads the celebration, and organizers say this year’s theme—“Go Green, Breathe Clean”—puts a spotlight on simple, everyday steps residents can take to improve local air quality. Amy Byers, MTE’s marketing and public relations coordinator and chair of the 2026 Earth Day Committee, says she’s inspired each year by the families who show up ready to learn, laugh, and take part in protecting the environment. She emphasizes that the event remains free and open to all ages.
One of the most popular traditions returns in a big way: MTE’s vegetation management team will give away 1,000 redbud saplings while supplies last. It’s first come, first served, and always a crowd‑pleaser. MTE will also host booths featuring TreeWise, ProSolar, energy efficiency programs, member services, the EV Car Club, and the EnergyHub trailer. Members of MTE’s senior leadership and board will be on hand to answer questions and connect with the community.
Families will find plenty to explore. Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation and the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center are teaming up for a Kids Zone packed with inflatables, yard games, and hands‑on activities. A scavenger hunt is open to all ages, with completed entries entered into a prize drawing.
Live entertainment will fill the Square throughout the day, starting with Steel De Boro at 10 a.m., Everybody Drum Some at 11, the MTSU Salsa Band at noon, and QuarterLife at 1 p.m. Free refreshments will be provided by MTE, Lewis Bake Shop, and Kroger.
Visitors can also browse eco‑friendly vendors, check out the Rutherford County Library System Bookmobile, and shop for plants grown by Blackman High School FFA students. A tote bag giveaway—400 bags in all—will be available at the MTE member services booth.
The annual Earth Day Poster Contest winners will be announced at 11:45 a.m., with student artwork displayed throughout the event. Organizers also note that the celebration is a zero‑waste event, supported by partners including TVA, Recycle Rutherford, the Stones River Watershed Association, Waste Management, and others.
If rain moves in, the celebration will shift to Patterson Park. More details are available at RCEarthDay.com, and information about MTE can be found at MTE.com.
With the final countdown underway, Murfreesboro is ready to “Go Green, Breathe Clean” together on the Square.
