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EcoEvents: Outdoor Education Programs & Events Calendar

All of our public events are open to individuals and their family members. For large groups, we ask that each family register individually. If you have a school, camp, club, or other group that would like to participate in a program, please contact [email protected] to set up a private program.

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October 2024 CALENDAR OF EVENTS 

Download a printable version of the October Calendar of Events

Sunday, Oct 27th, – Thursday, Oct 31st, 7:30 PM – 10:00 PMHaunted Fish Camp – Prepare for a spine-chilling adventure at the 3rd Annual Haunted Fish Camp at Jiggs Landing! This year, the historic fish camp transforms into a haunted haven for five frightful nights. Embark on a self-guided tour through the eerie grounds, where the ghost of Captain Fish Hook, a pirate lost for centuries, roams. Legend has it that his crew abandoned him in near Tampa Bay, and later he met his end at the hands of an evil fisherman at Jiggs Landing. Event suitable for all ages. Children (12 and under) are free. All others are $5. No reservations are required. For more information please visit www.jiggslanding.com or call (941) 727-4181. Jiggs Landing

Wednesday, Oct 30th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AMTortoise Talk – Join us for this informal program on the lawn of the NEST as we take our education tortoise out to graze! In the wild, foraging is an integral part of a gopher tortoise’s lifestyle, so we encourage it as much as possible. Stop by and say hello, get a chance to meet him up close, and ask any questions you may have. Learn all about what tortoises need to survive, how we care for our tortoise, and what efforts we can take to protect these important members of our Florida ecosystems. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations are required. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

November 2024 Calendar of Events 

Download a printable version of the November Calendar of Events   

Friday, Nov 1st, 6:00 PM – 8:30 PMGame Night at the NEST – Are you ready to learn a new game, or are you interested in sharing a much-beloved board game with others? Drop into the building for an evening of tabletop gaming fun! Borrow a nature-themed game from our game library or bring your favorite game from home. Meet new people and try something new. Role-playing games such as Dungeons and Dragons are welcome too. We only ask that all content and conversations remain family-friendly. Program suitable for all ages. Reservation suggested not required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/game-nights-at-the-nest-394v9adk. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Saturday, Nov 2nd, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PMFlying WILD Educator Workshop – This FREE educational workshop will teach you how to use Florida’s wildlife and habitats in exciting new lessons. The workshop will include activities to use with students along with your own copy of the Flying WILD activity guide. Workshop suitable for anyone 16 or older working with kids or interested in environmental education. Program sponsored by Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast and Project WILD Florida in partnership with Manatee County. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/project-flying-wild. For more information please contact [email protected]. Emerson Point Preserve – Emerson Classroom

Saturday, Nov 2nd, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PMSaturday Mornings at the NEST – Join us at the Mosaic Center for Nature, Exploration, Science, and Technology for a morning of discovery. Explore the canopy boardwalk among the banyans, climb to the top of the crow’s nest, take in breathtaking panoramic views, and make an exciting exit from the building via slide. Program suitable for all ages. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Sunday, Nov 3rd, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AMRobinson Preserve Morning Paddle – Join us for an easy morning paddle along the salt marshes of Robinson Preserve to the mouth of the Manatee River and Tampa Bay. We will take advantage of the low tide and be on the lookout for local wildlife. Program suitable for 16 and older who can meet the county eligibility requirements. This is an easy paddle which can be enjoyed by beginning kayakers.  All participants must wear a life jacket and bring a flashlight or headlamp and whistle. Reservations are required. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Kayak Launch

Tuesday, Nov 5th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AMExplore Nature: Scrub Restoration – Stop by and learn about the amazing restoration efforts that are taking place to bring back coastal scrub species and improve gopher tortoise habitat. We will have a table at the trail head happy to talk about the great thing that are happening for the habitat. Event suitable for all ages. Program Suitable for all ages. No reservations are required. For more information please contact [email protected]. Riverview Pointe Preserve – Trail Head

Wednesday, Nov 6th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AMTortoise Talk – Join us for this informal program on the lawn of the NEST as we take our education tortoise out to graze! In the wild, foraging is an integral part of a gopher tortoise’s lifestyle, so we encourage it as much as possible. Stop by and say hello, get a chance to meet him up close, and ask any questions you may have. Learn all about what tortoises need to survive, how we care for our tortoise, and what efforts we can take to protect these important members of our Florida ecosystems. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations are required. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Wednesday, Nov 6th, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PMSoar in 4 Family Night – Soar in 4 occurs the first Wednesday of each month in downtown Bradenton. Families visit demonstration tables facilitated by Manatee County teachers, non-profit organizations, and volunteers to learn how to use various materials to support the ‘spotlight book,’ as well as incorporate take-home items to continue to play, create, learn, and explore at home together. These monthly events provide families with the resources and information to become their child’s best ‘first teacher’ at home. All activities are aligned to classroom learning. Program suitable for children and their families. Program sponsored by Soar in 4 in partnership with Manatee County. No reservations required. For more information please visit www.soarin4.org. The Bishop Museum

Thursday, Nov 7th, 9:30 AM – 10:30 AMIndigenous Heritage Tour – Join us for a guided walk-through Neal Preserve as we explore the history of the indigenous people in the area. We'll take a closer look at the reconstructed burial mounds and climb the observation tower for a scenic view of this coastal preserve. Program suitable for ages 12 and up. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/indigenous-heritage-tour. For more information please contact [email protected]. Neal Preserve – Pavilion

Thursday, Nov 7th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMGreen Explorers: Natures Symphony – From the chirp of a chickadee to the wind rustling tree leaves, music is found at your doorstep. Come detect different ways nature makes music and see if you can make your very own, using only natural items. Green Explorers is a low-structured, highly social, and experienced-based activity. Program suitable for all ages recommended for ages 6-12-year-olds, but all ages welcome. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/green-explorers-nature-s-symphony-kacepeyq. For more information please contact [email protected]. Perico Preserve

Friday, Nov 8th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMExplore Nature! Tower Talk – Visit the top of the tower at Robinson Preserve to take in the beautiful views of Tampa Bay! Stop by to chat with a naturalist and learn about the plants, animals, and history of the preserve. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations are required. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Tower

Saturday, Nov 9th, 8:30 AM – 12:00 PMDuette Wagon Tour: Blooming Grasslands – Discover over 20,000 acres of Duette Preserve from a covered wagon. With a Master Naturalist guide and a Park Ranger, discover the story of restoration and wildlife. Witness Pine Flatwoods, River Floodplain, and Scrub ecosystems, and maybe even spot a Florida Scrub-jay! Program suitable for all ages. Program sponsored by Manatee Fish and Game Association in partnership with Manatee County. Please arrive early as the wagon will depart on time.  Bring a water bottle and a seat cushion or pad to sit on. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/manatee-fish-game/duette-wagon-tour-blooming-grasslands. Duette Preserve – Ranger Station

Saturday, Nov 9th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PMSaturday Mornings at the NEST – Join us at the Mosaic Center for Nature, Exploration, Science, and Technology for a morning of discovery. Explore the canopy boardwalk among the banyans, climb to the top of the crow’s nest, take in breathtaking panoramic views, and make an exciting exit from the building via slide. Program suitable for all ages. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Saturday, Nov 9th, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PMStarry Night Astronomy – Join us for an astronomical extravaganza! Dozens of local astronomers will be set up in the Robinson Preserve Expansion with telescopes at the ready. Be sure to bring a sense of wonder and exploration as we view the skies through high-powered telescopes. Learn how to identify heavenly bodies, and how you can stargaze at home too. Program suitable for all ages. Program sponsored by Suncoast Stargazers in partnership with Manatee County. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/robinson-astronomy. Robinson Preserve – Expansion Parking Lot

Monday, Nov 11th, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PMSunset Tai Chi at the NEST – Join us for this monthly class at the NEST! At sunset on the second Monday of the month, Dr. Brian Nell, a certified Tai Chi instructor, will lead the group through the gentle movements of Tai Chi. This is a great way to shake off the stressful work week. Improve your balance, loosen your joints, and improve flexibility as you relax and breathe. This class is perfect for beginners and will include an exploration of several different styles of Tai Chi and Qigong. This class is held rain or shine. Program suitable for adults. Program sponsored by Cypress Pillar Healing Arts in partnership with Manatee County. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/robinson-tai-chi. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Wednesday, Nov 13th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AMTortoise Talk – Join us for this informal program on the lawn of the NEST as we take our education tortoise out to graze! In the wild, foraging is an integral part of a gopher tortoise’s lifestyle, so we encourage it as much as possible. Stop by and say hello, get a chance to meet him up close, and ask any questions you may have. Learn all about what tortoises need to survive, how we care for our tortoise, and what efforts we can take to protect these important members of our Florida ecosystems. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations are required. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Thursday, Nov 14th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PMHomeschool Science Club: Walking in the Past (Rye) – Come walk in history’s footsteps as we explore the Indigenous cultures that inhabited the preserves. Learn all about the skills practiced by Florida’s early inhabitants. Measure the distance you can throw a spear with an atlatl, explore ancient fishing gear, and practice your weaving skills. Program recommended for students ages 7-13. Homeschool Science Club explores scientific and natural concepts through games, crafts, and activities encouraging students to be active outdoors. Guardians are responsible for identifying the learning maturity of their child. Please note the location of this session. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/novemberhsscrye. For more information please contact [email protected]. Rye Preserve – Pavilion

Thursday, Nov 14th, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM & 7:30 PM – 8:30 PMEscape Room: Swamp Mystery – Venture into the swamp to discover its mysteries and the whereabouts of missing fisherman Curtis Wallace. Become an investigator, find hidden clues, and collect items you will need to solve this enigma. Program suitable for ages 8 and up. There is a small jump scare in the escape room. Your party may opt out from the jump scare. Sessions are limited to 6 participants. All participating members of the party must purchase an individual ticket. Parents or guardians are allowed to accompany their children throughout the experience. Please contact organizer if your party needs larger group number accommodations. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://parks.mymanatee.org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/search.html?primarycode=110008. For more information please contact [email protected]. $10 Program fee payable online. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Friday, Nov 15th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AMTall Tail Tribe: ABC Hike – A is for ant and B is for bark. What do you think C will stand for? Come and join other preschoolers on a nature hike searching for all the letters of the alphabet. We will trek through Conservatory Park exploring different habitats and discovering new nature words. Feel free to bring a stroller for the youngest members. Program suitable for preschool age children. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/tall-tail-tribe-abc-hike. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – North Trail Head

Friday, Nov 15th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PMHomeschool Science Club: Walking in the Past (Emerson) – Come walk in history’s footsteps as we explore the Indigenous cultures that inhabited the preserves. Learn all about the skills practiced by Florida’s early inhabitants. Measure the distance you can throw a spear with an atlatl, explore ancient fishing gear, and practice your weaving skills. Program recommended for students ages 7-13. Homeschool Science Club explores scientific and natural concepts through games, crafts, and activities encouraging students to be active outdoors. Guardians are responsible for identifying the learning maturity of their child. Please note the location of this session. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/novemberhsscemerson. For more information please contact [email protected]. Emerson Point Preserve – Large Pavilion #1

Friday, Nov 15th, 7:30 PM – 8:30 PMEscape Room: Swamp Mystery – Venture into the swamp to discover its mysteries and the whereabouts of missing fisherman Curtis Wallace. Become an investigator, find hidden clues, and collect items you will need to solve this enigma. Program suitable for ages 8 and up. There is a small jump scare in the escape room. Your party may opt out from the jump scare. Sessions are limited to 6 participants. All participating members of the party must purchase an individual ticket. Parents or guardians are allowed to accompany their children throughout the experience. Please contact organizer if your party needs larger group number accommodations. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://parks.mymanatee.org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/search.html?primarycode=110008. For more information please contact [email protected]. $10 Program fee payable online. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Saturday, Nov 16th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PMSaturday Mornings at the NEST – Join us at the Mosaic Center for Nature, Exploration, Science, and Technology for a morning of discovery. Explore the canopy boardwalk among the banyans, climb to the top of the crow’s nest, take in breathtaking panoramic views, and make an exciting exit from the building via slide. Program suitable for all ages. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Saturday, Nov 16th, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AMHike with a Librarian Session 1 – Join us at Robinson Preserve to discuss a nature-themed non-fiction book with a Manatee County Librarian while enjoying Florida's scenery. After our book discussion, a Natural Resources guide will talk about the local flora and fauna as we walk around the preserve at a leisurely pace. This month we will be reading Nature's Best Hope: A New Approach to Conservation that Starts in Your Yard by Douglas W. Tallamy. Program suitable for adults. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://manateelibrary.libcal.com/event/12709903. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Trail Head Kiosk

Saturday, Nov 16th, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PMFall Frolic – Join Rocky Bluff and community partners for fun and food this Fall! Play games, create crafts, and enjoy all that Fall has to offer. Program for all ages. Program sponsored by Rocky Bluff Library in partnership with Manatee County. No reservations are required. For more information please visit https://manateelibrary.libcal.com/event/12840392?hs=a. Rocky Bluff Library

Saturday, Nov 16th, 1:00 PM – 2:30 PMHike with a Librarian Session 2 – Join us at Robinson Preserve to discuss a nature-themed non-fiction book with a Manatee County Librarian while enjoying Florida's scenery. After our book discussion, a Natural Resources guide will talk about the local flora and fauna as we walk around the preserve at a leisurely pace. This month we will be reading Nature's Best Hope: A New Approach to Conservation that Starts in Your Yard by Douglas W. Tallamy. Program suitable for adults. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://manateelibrary.libcal.com/event/12709929. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Trail Head Kiosk

Wednesday, Nov 20th, 9:00 AM – 10:00 AMWildlife Spotlight: Mangroves – Join us on a relaxing walk through the mangroves at Neal Preserve! Florida is home to three species of mangrove trees that are specially adapted to live in a salty environment. They provide nursery and feeding habitat for many local fish, crabs, and mollusks, and help to protect our coastlines. Learn how to identify mangroves and discover the important role they play in our ecosystem. Program suitable for adults. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/wildlife-spotlight-mangroves. For more information please contact [email protected]. Neal Preserve – Pavilion

Wednesday, Nov 20th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AMTortoise Talk – Join us for this informal program on the lawn of the NEST as we take our education tortoise out to graze! In the wild, foraging is an integral part of a gopher tortoise’s lifestyle, so we encourage it as much as possible. Stop by and say hello, get a chance to meet him up close, and ask any questions you may have. Learn all about what tortoises need to survive, how we care for our tortoise, and what efforts we can take to protect these important members of our Florida ecosystems. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations are required. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Thursday, Nov 21st, 9:30 AM – 10:30 AMIndigenous Heritage Tour – Join us for a guided walk-through Neal Preserve as we explore the history of the indigenous people in the area. We'll take a closer look at the reconstructed burial mounds and climb the observation tower for a scenic view of this coastal preserve. Program suitable for ages 12 and up. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/indigenous-heritage-tour. For more information please contact [email protected]. Neal Preserve – Pavilion

Friday, Nov 22nd, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AMNature Tales: Diggin Dirt – Does your kiddo enjoy stories and nature? Join us at Conservatory Park in Nature Tales. Meet monthly at Conservatory Park for an interactive story and activities. This month, we will dig into our soils and discover what wildlife needs dirt. Program suitable for 8-year-old and younger. Program suitable for ages 9 and under. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/nature-tales-digging-dirt. For more information please contact [email protected]. Conservatory Park – Playground Pavilion

Friday, Nov 22nd, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMHomeschool BioLab: Chromato-Leaf Adventure! – Unleash your inner scientist as you explore the vibrant pigments hidden within leaves! In this hands-on lab, you'll learn the magic of chromatography and uncover the different colors that make up plant life. Get ready to separate, identify, and appreciate the beauty of nature in a whole new way! Join us for a colorful adventure! Program suitable for ages 10 - 15 Homeschool Bio Lab is an advanced course where we explore higher scientific concepts and the scientific method through dissections, chemistry, and biology experiments. No refunds available. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://parks.mymanatee.org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/search.html?
primarycode=110007
. For more information please contact [email protected]. Emerson Point Preserve – Emerson Classroom

Friday, Nov 22nd, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PMMovie Under the Stars: Migration – Join Us for Movie Night! Grab your blankets or chairs and snacks for a cozy evening of films under the stars. Bring your friends and family for a night of great entertainment and fun! Don’t miss it! We will provide free popcorn. Program for all ages. Reservation suggested not required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/movie-night-p8p25t2q. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Saturday, Nov 23rd, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PMSaturday Mornings at the NEST – Join us at the Mosaic Center for Nature, Exploration, Science, and Technology for a morning of discovery. Explore the canopy boardwalk among the banyans, climb to the top of the crow’s nest, take in breathtaking panoramic views, and make an exciting exit from the building via slide. Program suitable for all ages. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Saturday, Nov 23rd, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PMReptiFest 2024 – Join us at the NEST at Robinson Preserve to explore why reptiles are important for the ecosystem and what to do if you come across them. Learn what to do if you come across a gopher tortoise, meet some reptiles, explore a gopher burrow, and more! Step inside the NEST building to enjoy a variety of reptile-themed activities, including puzzles, puppets, and a reptile themed craft! Don't miss this fun-filled, family-friendly event! Program suitable for all ages. Reservation suggested not required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/reptifest2024. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Tuesday, Nov 26th, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AMNature Art: Palm Weaving – Take a stroll through the NEST grounds and enjoy nature as we learn about the palms in the area and use the fronds to weave a basket inspired by skills used by the indigenous peoples that lived in the preserve. Program suitable for all ages. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/palmweaving. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Wednesday, Nov 27th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AMTortoise Talk – Join us for this informal program on the lawn of the NEST as we take our education tortoise out to graze! In the wild, foraging is an integral part of a gopher tortoise’s lifestyle, so we encourage it as much as possible. Stop by and say hello, get a chance to meet him up close, and ask any questions you may have. Learn all about what tortoises need to survive, how we care for our tortoise, and what efforts we can take to protect these important members of our Florida ecosystems. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations are required. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Kayaking with Manatee County

PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS FOR MANATEE COUNTY KAYAKS

In order to utilize one of Manatee County’s sit on top kayaks for a volunteer, Kayaking for Beginners, Kayaking for First Timers, or Beginner Level Kayak Trip, or to participate in any paddling program, participants:

  • Must be 16 years of age or older
  • Must not exceed the manufacturer’s weight limit for the vessel
  • Must have the ability to follow verbal and/or visual instructions independently while in the kayak
  • Must have the ability to respond to instructions and/or call out in the event of an emergency
  • Must have the ability to wear a properly fitted personal flotation device
  • Must have the ability to enter and exit the kayak independently or with the assistance of a companion
  • Must be able to move the kayak through the water independently in a stable manner and return it to the launching area
  • Must have the ability to breathe independently
  • Must have the ability to tolerate 60-80 degree Fahrenheit water and bright sunlight for 2 hours
  • Must have the ability to remain seated, maneuver, and balance independently while on the water

In order to utilize one of Manatee County’s sit on top kayaks for a summer camp program, participants:

  • Must be 9 years of age or older (note: age limit is lower as this program is specifically designed as a direct instructional for this age group; guide to paddler ratio is much lower)
  • Must not exceed the manufacturer’s weight limit for the vessel
  • Must have the ability to follow verbal and/or visual instructions independently while in the kayak
  • Must have the ability to respond to instructions and/or call out in the event of an emergency
  • Must have the ability to wear a properly fitted personal flotation device
  • Must have the ability to enter and exit the kayak independently or with the assistance of a companion
  • Must have the ability to breathe independently
  • Must be able to move the kayak through the water independently in a stable manner and return it to the launching area
  • Must have the ability to tolerate 60-80 degree Fahrenheit water and bright sunlight for 2 hours
  • Must have the ability to remain seated, maneuver, and balance independently while on the water

In the event of capsize for any program, one:

  • Must have the ability to get out from under the watercraft independently
  • Must have the ability to right oneself and remain face up in the water with the aid of a personal flotation device