graphic for free fares on earth day

Celebrate Earth Day with METRO

Santa Cruz METRO is celebrating Earth Day 2026 by offering free fares countywide on all fixed-route, ParaCruz, and Highway 17 Express services on Wednesday, April 22, 2026

Earth Day is a reminder that small choices can make a big difference. Choosing public transit is one simple way to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, support cleaner air, and protect the natural beauty of Santa Cruz County. 

Ride Free on Earth Day 

On Wednesday, April 22, 2026, all riders can ride free on: 

  • Fixed-route service 
  • ParaCruz 
  • Highway 17 Express 

Leave the car at home and take METRO to work, school, errands, appointments, or local Earth Day events. 

Visit METRO at Local Earth Day Events 

METRO will also be participating in two local Earth Day celebrations: 

Downtown Santa Cruz Earth Day event 
Saturday, April 18, 2026
11:30 AM – 4 PM 

Watsonville Transit Center 
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 
11 AM – 2 PM

METRO is hosting its own Earth Day event at the Watsonville Transit Center in partnership with the City of Watsonville. Stop by to connect with METRO staff, learn more about sustainable transportation options, and celebrate Earth Day with us. 

One Ride at a Time 

METRO also gives riders a way to support local environmental nonprofits through the One Ride at a Time program. Through the GO Santa Cruz ridesharing incentive program, every 25 rides logged generates a $10 donation to one of METRO’s participating environmental nonprofit partners. 

Make Earth Day Count 

Whether you are a regular rider or trying transit for the first time, Earth Day is a great time to choose a more sustainable way to travel. Ride METRO for free on April 22 and join us in celebrating a cleaner, healthier future for Santa Cruz County. 

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