With Earth Day right around the corner, it is time to start thinking about earth friendly ways to celebrate. Many stores and local businesses hold events to commemorate. Earth Day is officially April 22, but many businesses hold events throughout the month of April.

Kroger Stores: I’ll take any reminder I can get to help me bring my reusable bags in when I grocery shop. I am hoping that participation in this contest may be just the thing for me. Kroger is giving away a $1,000 gift card to the winner of its "Design A Reusable Shopping Bag" contest. The entries are done online, and so is the voting. There are already lots of good entries posted for your inspiration.

Starbucks: Starbucks is trying to get us to give up those disposable coffee cups, and go with something a little more earth smart. If you bring in a reusable mug today, they’ll fill it with coffee for free. All locations are participating. Starbucks is so dedicated to eradicating waste from coffee cups, that they have pledged $20,000 in prize money for a contest to design a more eco-friendly cup. Here's the contest information.

Whole Foods: Whole Foods on Washtenaw Avenue has teamed with the Scrap Box and Ann Arbor Re-Use Center to hold its Dreaming of a Greener World Recycled Art Sculpture Contest. Entries have already been submitted, and the winners will be announced at an Art Opening reception at Whole Foods on April 16. On April 24 all three local businesses will participate in an Art Walk where the public will have a chance to view the entries and enjoy Earth friendly refreshments.

Blue House: An Earth Day Remake Event will be held from 3-6 p.m. April 24 at Blue House. This family friendly celebration will give participants a chance to design eco-friendly art with recycled materials and the help of local makers and crafters. Joe Rielly provides musical entertainment. 1026 South Main, Ann Arbor.

What do you plan to do to commemorate Earth Day this year?

Lead Shopping Blogger Angie Smith will hunt for deals and dish on the latest in retail and business news in Ann Arbor. Readers will attain notices of great deals and store happenings in and around the city. To report a news item or tip contact her at angieannarbor@gmail.com.