In addition to its fascinating Gold Rush past, the Sacramento area is rich with an amazing array of state-of-the-art museums and historic sites that offer visitors the chance to explore California’s fine art, history, science, and wildlife treasures all year long.  In April, many of the 28 members of Sacramento Association of Museums (SAM) are proud to showcase a variety of upcoming earth-friendly events and activities, including:

“Earth Fest” & “Recycle Rummage Sale” at The Sacramento Zoo - April 7
It’s a party for the planet at the Sacramento Zoo during “Earth Fest”! Zoo visitors will learn how to protect and preserve the earth with environmental, wildlife and conservation organizations.   Plus, the popular “Recycle Rummage Sale” is happening the same day. Proceeds from the “Recycle Rummage Sale” benefit the Sacramento Zoo’s conservation programs - locally and around the world! For more, visit www.saczoo.org.

“Pick Me! Fruit Crate Art & the California Dream" at the Railroad Museum - Debuts April 10
Back by popular demand, a second phase of the visually-powerful exhibit titled “Pick Me! Fruit Crate Art & the California Dream” is opening in April at the California State Railroad Museum.  Visitors will delight in a whole new crop of whimsically designed fruit crate labels from the 1880s through the early 1950s that inspired many to “Go West” in search of the California Dream.    For more, visit www.californiastaterailroadmuseum.org.

Basket Weaving Demonstration at the State Indian Museum - April 14  
Mesmerizing to watch and fun to learn, the State Indian Museum is proud to offer basket weaving demonstrations by Dixie Rogers, a traditional basket weaver from the Karuk tribe who uses a technique called Closed Half Twist-Twined With Overlay.   Dixie masterfully incorporates a number of native California plants into her intricate and original basket creations.  In addition, visitors can enjoy some traditional California Indian activities that include making walnut dice and creating beads with natural materials. All activities will be taking place that day from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more, visit www.parks.ca.gov/indianmuseum.

“Recycle + Reuse = New Fun!” at the Discovery Museum - April 21 & 22
It’s a re-use-a-palooza! Celebrate Earth Day at the Discovery Museum Science & Space Center where visitors will enjoy crafting fun using some unexpected recycled materials including making a “stained glass” sun catcher out of a CD jewel case!  There will be projects for families to work on together at the Museum, and some ideas to take home -- the Museum supplies the materials and basic ideas and visitors add creativity! Special exhibits are on display, too, including a mini-house with working solar panels.  For more, visit www.thediscovery.org.

For more information about SAM, its partners and/or these and other events and activities, visit www.sacmuseums.org.