Feathers come from birds. Use a domestic bird feather (chicken, duck, turkey) to paint a picture, draw, write, dust, and play games. Drop a feather and let it float into […]

Hike to the prairie in the cool of the evening. Check out flowers that grow there, including Prairie Dock, Mountain Mint, and Ironweed. See what insects and birds are using […]

Plein Air Gatherings are an opportunity for artists to get together and paint or draw outdoors “en plein air” in Hancock County parks.  All adult artists who use any medium conducive to working outdoors are welcome.  If you are new to plein air painting or are hesitant to go out on your own, these gatherings […]

Atlatls are a tool used to throw a long spear-like arrow called a dart. They have been the primary hunting tool of prehistoric people around the world for thousands of years and are still used in cultures today. Participants will learn about the history of the atlatl and use them to throw darts at archery […]

Explore Shank Lake aboard a kayak and enjoy the scenery and wildlife. Feel free to bring a fishing pole, binoculars, and even a book if relaxing, floating, and reading is your thing. If you are new to kayaking, do not let that stop you. Staff will provide instructions on the basics of kayaking, such as […]

Tom Frets from the Millstream Astronomy Club will present a program titled Astronomical Speed, Time & Distance. After the program, view the night sky. The Millstream Astronomy Club will have telescopes available (club members can show you how to use them) or bring your own. Riverbend Recreation Area Big Oaks Activity Area Shelter 3 9 […]

Pioneers made leather and used it in many ways. Stop by the workshop where Nelson Poe will be working with leather to craft a variety of goods, for example, see how a fly swatter was assembled. Stop by the washhouse where Robert McKinnis will be preparing animal skin as part of the leather making process. […]

Description: Information about the different types of arachnids and their unique features and behaviors will be shared. After the presentation, there will be a guided hike in search of spiders, ticks, daddy longlegs, and other arachnids that live in the park. Oakwoods Nature Preserve Discovery Center 6:30 PM All ages are welcome. Free; registration is […]

Berries come in many shapes and colors. Children can participate in activities like Fingerprint Blueberries, Berry Lacing Cards, and Berry Sorting. Find out about the animals in Hancock County that eat berries, such as the Eastern Box Turtle and Blue Jays. Litzenberg Memorial Woods Shelter 10 AM Ages 3-6 with an adult; other aged siblings […]

Plein Air Gatherings are an opportunity for artists to get together and paint or draw outdoors “en plein air” in Hancock County parks.  All adult artists who use any medium conducive to working outdoors are welcome.  If you are new to plein air painting or are hesitant to go out on your own, these gatherings […]

Create a picture using leaves, tempera paint, and a sponge. While waiting for the paint to dry, visit the animals inside the Discovery Center and play at the Nature Play Area. Oakwoods Nature Preserve Discovery Center Porch 10 AM Ages 3 and under with an adult. Other aged siblings are welcome to attend. Free; registration […]

Pioneers used pickling to preserve vegetables. The methodology used to preserve vegetables, such as cabbage, cucumbers, and green beans will be explained and demonstrated. Pickle samples will be available for tasting, including cucumbers, sauerkraut, and pickled ramps. Litzenberg Memorial Woods McKinnis House 6 PM Ages 16 and up. Free; but click here to register by […]