FOLEY — The city of Foley will host its third annual Earth Day Extravaganza at Graham Creek Nature Preserve on Saturday.

The event kicks off at 9 a.m. with Jog the Bog 5K Run hosted by Wolf Bay Watershed Watch and the city of Foley.

According to city of Foley Environmental Manager Leslie Lassiter Gahagan, the race course crosses small streams, wetland bogs and pitcher plant fields.

“Registration is online at www.active.com or at the City of Foley Community Development Department,” she said. “Proceeds will benefit Wolf Bay Watershed Watch and Graham Creek Nature Preserve.”

She explained that the race is a perfect fit for Saturday’s Extravaganza.

“Jog the Bog was developed as a fun event for adults and children to expose them to our beautiful environment while raising money for educational programs at Graham Creek Nature Preserve,” Gahagan said.

It will be followed by free activities 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

“Events this year include planting wildflowers, building a birdhouse, wagon rides and nature tours,” Gahagan said.

She explained that while Earth Day is actually April 22, Foley’s celebration is intentionally held early.

“The city hosts the event prior to Earth Day to avoid conflicts with other local Earth Day events,” Gahagan said.

But bad weather is one thing that may conflict. However, Gahagan said that shouldn’t interfere with Saturday’s Extravaganza.

“The event is rain or shine,” she said.

Earth Day Extravaganza got its start in 2010.

“Mayor John Koniar suggested the city host an Earth Day event at Graham Creek Nature Preserve to show our beautiful nature park to the community,” Gahagan said.

Since then the event has grown.

“We also have added some additional activities for the family,” Gahagan said.

That growth attracted approximately 250 attendees last year.

For more information, contact Gahagan at 251-971-1471 or lgahagan@cityoffoley.org.

You can learn more about the Graham Creek Nature Preserve HERE

Check out the link for coverage of last year's event!