Events
Family fun days, festivals, nature walks and so much more!
September 5
Wednesday Bird Walk: Boot Lake
Witness the spectacle of fall migration at one of the best birding hotspots in the county! With over 300 acres of mixed prairie, wetland, and woodland habitat, the Preserve provides a crucial stopping point for south-bound birds to rest and refuel. Migrating hawks, shorebirds, waterbirds, and songbirds can all be seen in high numbers. At peak migration we are likely encounter a number of unique and rare birds not normally found in our region, so this is a walk birders won’t want to miss!
September 7
Astronomy Night
– SOLD OUT – Join us for an evening studying the stars. Learn about the world of astronomy, Greek and Roman mythology expressed in the naming of constellations, and how stars change through the seasons in an informational presentation. Participants will also make a star chart that will show the constellations at any time of year. Enjoy a hot dog or roast a marshmallow and gaze up at the beautiful heavens and learn about our stellar companions.
September 8
Birds, Blooms & Bison Trip
– SOLD OUT – Join the Friends of the Elkhart County Parks on a van trip to Kankakee Sands Preserve, a 7000+ acre prairie restoration project in northwest Indiana. The preserve is known as a paradise for birdwatchers and flower enthusiasts and provides viewing opportunities for the small bison herd also living there. Vans will leave from Ox Bow County Park and stop for an early lunch on the way. Trip participants are welcome to hike and view at their own pace while at the preserve, then snacks will be provided on return trip. Be sure to bring good hiking shoes, sunscreen, and binoculars.
September 10
Epic Explorers
This month, the Explorers will investigate the biology of the Elkhart River. The program will begin by constructing some water viewers out of recycled containers. Once the viewers have been perfected, Explorers will head down to the water to look beneath the surface and discover the life in the river. The group will share their discoveries and identify the creatures that call the Elkhart River home. Explorers will also learn about water conservation and why it is so important to try and keep our rivers and streams free of pollution.
September 11
September 13
Places of Elkhart: Schools
One of our most meaningful shared experiences is going to school. This program will explore the history of school buildings throughout all of Elkhart County. From one room schoolhouses to our modern high schools, you will see how schools have changed over time while you relive some of your own memories of going to school.
September 14
Astronomy Night
– SOLD OUT – Join us for an evening studying the stars. Learn about the world of astronomy, Greek and Roman mythology expressed in the naming of constellations, and how stars change through the seasons in an informational presentation. Participants will also make a star chart that will show the constellations at any time of year. Enjoy a hot dog or roast a marshmallow and gaze up at the beautiful heavens and learn about our stellar companions.
September 18
September 18
Nature Readers: Bean Blossom Dreams
Nature Readers will discuss Bean Blossom Dreams by renowned Indiana author Sallyann Murphey. This story chronicles a family’s first two years trying to revive the broken-down Bean Blossom Farm in Brown County, Indiana. Come prepared to discuss the book with others. Next month’s book: Salt by Helen Frost.
September 20
September 21
Tails to Trails
Join a naturalist as we explore the wonderful Boot Lake Nature Preserve through your dog’s eyes. Dogs walk at their own paces so signs will be placed along the path to find your way or stroll with the group. Water and doggy bags will be available for all dogs. All dogs must be on a leash and controlled at all times. The walk will take approximately an hour around the Preserve.
September 22
Birding By Ear Workshop
Ever wanted the superpower to find and name every bird in your yard using only your ears? Now you can! This workshop will explore the ways birds use sound to communicate, and provide “ears-on” training for picking out and identifying their calls. The first part of the class will be an indoor presentation, followed by a 1½ hour bird hike where we will practice listening techniques and discover what birds we can find by using only our ears. All birding equipment will be provided, but participants are encouraged to bring binoculars, hiking shoes, and dress for activities outdoors.
September 23
Board Games in the Park
Calling all table top gamers! Come enjoy an afternoon of games in the park. Demo games will be provided by Secret Door Games and Better World Books or bring your own to play. There will also be giant versions of popular games like Forbidden Island™, Jenga® and Hungry Hungry Hippos. Take gaming to a new level by taking it outside!
September 25
Project WET Teacher Workshop
Attention 1st and 2nd grade teachers! Learn fun, new ways to enhance your lessons through the Project WET program. Training will include both formal and informal instruction aligned with current science standards. Participants will receive the Project WET curriculum and activity guide with over 64 engaging water-themed activities. Professional growth points available.
September 27
Farm to Fork
– SOLD OUT – Granger farm-to-fork restaurant Rocky River Tap and Table is partnering with Elkhart County Parks to showcase the local food landscape of our region. Spend an evening with the restaurant manager to learn the restaurant’s philosophy, how and where they source ingredients in Michiana, and sample some of their delicious creations. Get a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to operate a sustainable locally sourced restaurant in our area.
September 29
Cornbread Bake Day
Enjoy one of Bonneyville Mill’s most popular products – cornmeal! Learn the basics of cornmeal production with a milling demonstration and sample three different recipes of cornbread all prepared with products ground on site. Several types of stoneground cornmeal will be available for purchase to make your own tasty treats.