Events
Family fun days, festivals, nature walks and so much more!
August 6
Bug Night
They’re creepy, they’re crawly and they’re back at this insect-enthusiasts event! Look at a grasshopper through a lens, tromp through the grass in search of a firefly or taste a chocolate-covered cricket! There will be crafts and activities for all ages. Bring the entire family for an evening of buggy fun! Snacks will also be for sale.
NOTE: Please follow current CDC guidelines.
August 12
Yoga in the Parks
–THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT–
Join Registered Yoga Teacher Amanda from Innate Yoga for an hour of empowering yoga in the parks. Enjoy guided practice welcoming of all skill levels in a relaxing park environment. Participants are encouraged to dress for the weather, bring water and their own mats.
Note: Please follow current CDC guidelines.
August 13
Virtual Deerfly Dash
This year’s Deerfly Dash is going virtual again! Beginning Aug.7, participants have one week to complete a 5K run (or walk) at the Elkhart County Park of their choice! All eligible Deerfly Dashers that complete the 5K challenge and share photos of their experience will receive a commemorative prize.
- HOW TO PARTICIPATE: Register online and complete the 5K challenge (3.1-miles) in any Elkhart County Parks property during the week of Aug.7-14.
- SHARE YOUR STORY: Post a photo/video of your clocked time, or a shot of a cool feature you noticed in the park during your dash. Share using the hashtag #DeerflyDash2021 on Instagram or Facebook. Make sure your account’s posts are public or we won’t be able to see your efforts!
- SNAG A PRIZE: All eligible Deerfly Dashers that share their experience will earn an awesome event glass to commemorate the virtual challenge.
- REGISTER ONLINE: Sign up by Aug. 13 to take part in the virtual challenge.
August 13
Perseids Party
Looking for a good place to watch the meteor shower? We can help! Bring the family, pick a spot to spread a blanket, and enjoy some space-themed snacks on us. Information and guidance on telescope use and how to spot constellations will also be offered during this stellar event.
NOTE: Please follow current CDC guidelines.
August 16
Trail Trekkers: Wetlands
–THIS PROGRAM IS SOLD OUT–
Trail Trekkers (ages 6-9) are invited to explore the wetlands of Baintertown this month. We’ll discover the many benefits of a wetland, the amazing creatures that call it home, and how some of our wetlands were formed.
Meet at the parking lot at Baintertown Park in River Preserve County Park.
NOTE: Please follow current CDC guidelines.
August 17
Hiking Club
Join our Hiking Club to explore a different park trail every month, make new friends, and glimpse the bounty of nature around every curve and corner. Hiking Club meets on the third Tuesday of each month (March – October).
This month, hikers will see the beauty of Boot Lake’s prairie on a 2-mile hike over flat terrain. Meet at Boot Lake parking lot.
Note: Please follow current CDC guidelines.
August 18
Open House at the Schoolhouse
Grab your schoolbooks and step back a century as you explore the One-room Schoolhouse at Bonneyville Mill County Park. Imagine yourself a student sitting in one the small wooden desks, practicing your handwriting on the heavy slate boards, while keeping warm next to the wood-burning stove. As you catch a glimpse of what life was like for the average run-of-the-mill student, staff will be on-site to answer any questions you may have during these open hours.
NOTE: Visitors are required to wear a face covering and practice social distancing (6 ft apart) while touring the Schoolhouse.
August 19
Thirst for Nature Hike
Join a naturalist for a hike and a refreshing botanical beverage. The program will start with an easy-to-follow recipe highlighting a wild edible or two. Participants will each get their own sample to enjoy and sip on along a short guided hike around Benton Dam in River Preserve County Park.
NOTE: Please follow current CDC guidelines.
August 21
Recycling & Sustainable Alternatives
Looking to “green-up” your lifestyle? Join the Parks for a Saturday workshop full of information on recycling options available throughout the County. Also discover some of the popular sustainable and eco-friendly products intended to replace single-use plastics, like straws and packaging.
Note: Please follow current CDC guidelines.
August 24
Emma Molloy: In Her Own Words
Find out about the life of Emma Molloy, the subject of Elkhart County’s newest state historic marker. This installation will chronicle her life as a trailblazer in newspaper editing during the 19th Century, and her rise to advocate for temperance and women’s rights. This exhibit will be at the museum through October 2021.
Note: Please follow current CDC guidelines.
August 28
Summer Astronomy
Each season brings changes to the plants and animals around us, but don’t forget about the changes above our heads. Join a Park Naturalist in hearing about the interesting Greek & Roman mythology behind many of our amazing summer constellations. Participants will also enjoy snacks, a make-n-take star chart, and helpful tips on how to find the constellations. Sky viewing through a telescope will also take place depending on cloud cover.
Note: Please follow current CDC guidelines.
August 29
Cast Iron Cookout
This program will teach the basics of using cast iron cookware and how to best care for it. Participants will be invited to taste a variety of recipes that were prepared in cast iron. There will be information on where to buy cast iron cookware, as well as restoration techniques for used equipment.
Note: Please follow current CDC guidelines.
