Arbor Day at Tasty Tuesday

RICHMOND, Ky. (April 20, 2026) -- The city of Richmond will observe Arbor Day at its popular Tasty Tuesday event at Irvine-McDowell Park on Tuesday, April 21st.  Mayor Robert Blythe will issue an official proclamation at the Park. The city earned a 2025 designation as a “Tree City USA” within the  Arbor Day Foundation program. Tree City USA has recognized communities of all sizes to promote and cultivate the natural beauty of trees within their environment. Tree Cities USA are honored for their commitment to plant, grow, and maintain trees to benefit their community. “Trees provide natural beauty to our surroundings, and they are symbols of lasting legacy. Indeed, planting a tree is viewed as an act of optimism and an investment to benefit future generations. The City of Richmond is honored to be designated as a Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation,” said Richmond Mayor Robert Blythe. The first Arbor Day was celebrated on April 10, 1872, in Nebraska City, Nebraska.  Founded by journalist Julius Morton, the day has become a recognized holiday in all 50 of the United States of America and internationally. The Arbor Day Foundation is a global nonprofit with a mission to inspire people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees. Its network of more than a million supporters and partners has helped the organization plant more than 500 million trees in forests and communities across more than 60 countries. The Foundation’s Tree City USA program is now celebrating its 50th recognition season. The anniversary underscores the program’s rich history of growing healthier, greener, and more resilient communities through urban forestry. “For five decades, Tree City USA has rallied passionate local leaders to enhance the livability and sustainability of their communities. Tree champions like Richmond, Kentucky are leading the way in a growing movement to shape a better future with trees and action,” said Michelle Saulnier, Vice President of Programs at the Arbor Day Foundation. “Trees are critical infrastructure, building resiliency and fostering good health in our nation’s cities. We’re proud Richmond is among the Arbor Day Foundation’s growing network of communities dedicated to creating positive impact through trees.”    In cities and neighborhoods, trees are proven to help mitigate the urban heat island effect, reduce stormwater runoff, improve air quality, and boost mental and physical health. When the right trees are planted in the right places, they can also reduce traffic noise, increase property values, and lower energy costs for homeowners.   The Arbor Day Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit pursuing a future where all life flourishes through the power of trees. Learn more at arborday.org. ###