Autumnal Artmaking
Sand Ridge Nature Center • South Holland, IL 60473Get inspired by the colors of the season as we paint tree cookies and make art with fallen leaves. All […]
Get inspired by the colors of the season as we paint tree cookies and make art with fallen leaves. All […]
Make a simple musical instrument or bring your own and join the jam by playing or listening.
Let nature inspire your creativity. Join in on various nature-themed arts and crafts projects. Hosted at Swallow Cliff Woods Pavilion.
Learn about the basics of knitting and simple techniques through a tutorial led by staff. Supplies provided. Ages 13 & […]
Repurpose the common European buckthorn into something new. Equipment provided. Ages 10 & up. Participants under 16 must be accompanied […]
Celebrate the rich heritage of the Calumet region. On this day, we will collaborate with various partner organizations that host […]
Repurpose the common European buckthorn into something new. Equipment provided. Ages 10 & up.
Celebrate the start of the winter season with a giant bonfire under the night sky. Enjoy winter craft and star […]
Drop in to learn the basics about winter bird feeding and pick up a do-it-yourself pinecone bird feeder craft.
Visit our pioneer cabins as we celebrate winter holiday traditions. Play with handmade toys, make a craft, and see what’s […]
Make a festive birdseed wreath to help our feathered friends this winter! Materials provided. Ages 13 & up.
Walk a short trail and read the posted story, then pick up a craft and activity bag.
Join us as we celebrate the beginning of winter with a large bonfire, artmaking, nature walks and more.
In this instructor-led course, create a painting inspired by nature. All materials provided. Ages 15 and up.
Get creative and learn some new skills. Projects will include woodburning, painting and fiber arts. Ages 9-13 & families.
This winter season, we will be hosting 'Gathering Nature: Glass Mosaics and Assemblages,' a mother/daughter art show by artists Judy […]
Children will enjoy three fun filled days with outdoor activities, art making and s’mores at the fire. Ages 9-12.
Bring the whole family and enjoy winter in the Preserves with snowshoeing, nature hikes, art, campfires and more!
Calling all creatives! Join us for our themed sessions as we explore printmaking.
View the glass mosaic art and chat with local mosaic artist Judy Steed at the official opening of her show […]
Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with a day of service. Join us for an afternoon of litter clean-up, crafts […]
Give items a second life by turning them into an ornament, decoration or birdfeeder. Learn how to extend the life […]
Give items a second life by turning them into an ornament, decoration or birdfeeder. Learn to extend the life of […]
Explore the beauty of nature through watercolor painting. Drop-in is available for additional watercolor activities.
Sketch and paint a 9x12 canvas of a dark-eyed junco using acrylic paints. Ages 13 & up
Repurpose the common European buckthorn into something new. Equipment provided. Ages 10 & up.
Be inspired by the winter landscape and create pieces of art using woodburning or pyrography techniques and watercolor paints. BYOB. […]
Drop in to learn safe practices for fire building and containment, make fire-inspired art, build your own fire and roast […]
Celebrate the Year of the Dragon with art and activities.
Prepare a house for the upcoming nesting season. Limited space. One birdhouse per family. $5 suggested donation. Ages 10 & […]
Nearly all Forest Preserves events are free; some require registration and/or a low fee. Residents may qualify for free admission opportunities at our partners: Brookfield Zoo Chicago and the Chicago Botanic Garden.
Printed copies of our quarterly Events Guide are available at our Nature Centers and General Headquarters. They may also be available at your local city hall or library. Know a location that should have our Events Guide? Contact us.
Events Guide (PDF)Get free transportation to the Forest Preserves for your group.
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Sign UpThe Forest Preserves is committed to providing equal, integrated participation for individuals with disabilities. Please contact the Nature Center hosting your event or program 72 hours in advance to request reasonable accommodations or inquire about site accessibility.
Please contact Experience.Nature@cookcountyil.gov or 708-771-1573 about accommodations for specific camping and outdoor recreation activities.