Return to Paradise
2021-11-06 18:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Tampa Bay Watch Marine & Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
Cool breezes, relaxed vibe, groovy drinks, fabulous food, and nifty entertainment.

A vintage visit to an old-school Florida vacation – classic car show, vendor market, photos in the orange grove – all as you enjoy delicious cocktails, food, music, auction, and more!
Proceeds benefit the mission of Tampa Bay Watch and support the important work we are doing. The funds raised will support funding for Estuary EDventure field trips and ensure that our oyster domes, shell bars, and salt marsh programs can continue on Tampa Bay’s shorelines and stabilize the natural environment.

We’re ready to get together again. Safely.

In recognition of the ongoing pandemic, we are limiting attendance* to Evening for the Bay to 250 guests this year. Additionally, we will take full advantage of our beautiful location and enjoy the majority of the evening outdoors. We will adhere to current CDC guidelines for this event.

*Please note: for the safety of all, we are not selling individual tickets this year. The 4-pack of tickets is available for smaller group attendance.

PURCHASE TICKETS

Wild Wings Bird Hike
2020-01-11 08:00 - 09:30 | Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, United States
Wild Wings –
Birds of Brooker Hike
Have you wondered what bird is singing in your backyard? Do you see and hear birds but don’t know who they are? If so, join us for a Beginning Bird Hike to learn how to identify the county’s common birds as we meander along a one-mile trail.
All ages are welcome. Children under the ages of 16 must be accompanied by an adult and those younger than 6 may find this hike challenging.
Guided Hike Information
Volunteer Hike Guides will meet participants outside the Exhibit Hall 10 minutes before the scheduled start time. We strongly suggest all hikers visit the restroom (located in the Classroom Building) before we begin as there are no facilities along the trail.

Guided hikes are under a mile in length, much of which is on unimproved, uneven sandy trails.
Hikes take about two (2) hours to complete.
Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes, sneakers or boots.
Insect repellent (bug spray) is strongly recommended in summer months.
Bring plenty of drinking water and a snack.
A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also recommended.
Pets are not permitted.
No smoking is allowed.
Trained volunteers will guide the hike.

Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/wild-wings-birds-of-brooker-hike-tickets-53439990450?mc_cid=a4dbfdde6b&mc_eid=1cbba2e07b

Climate Science Lab
2021-10-15 16:00 - 17:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
AGES: 10 – 15 yrs
Understanding climate change starts with understanding climate science. Come and conduct real science experiments that illustrate why Earth’s climate is changing and how it affects us. Pizza will be provided at 5 pm.

Saltwater Invertebrates II: Our Spineless Superheroes, the Sequel!
2021-11-20 10:00 - 11:00 | Online Event
By popular demand, we are diving back into the world of saltwater (marine) invertebrates! With over 50,000 plus species from which to choose there are easily over 49,000 plus species still waiting for their time to shine in our spotlight. Join us for talk with Sensing Nature Ecologist Brian Lane as he reveals some amazing marine invertebrates and discover the important role they play, even in our everyday lives.
Register today

Figuring Out Fins
2021-12-02 14:00 - 15:00 | Online Event
Join us for a talk with Sensing Nature’s ecologist Brian Lane as we dive into Florida’s saltwater environment and explore what fishes are found in Florida. We’ll learn about fish taxonomy and why this is important; we’ll learn about fish adaptations and how their adaptations help them survive, and finally, we’ll take a closer look at some of our wonderful saltwater fishes that call Florida home!
Register today

Learning Florida Coastal Birds
2021-12-18 10:00 - 23:00 | Online Event
Learn what birds are typically found in Florida’s coastal habitats, how are they adapted to live here and if that may give them a unique survival advantage. Join us for a talk with wildlife biologist Jeanne Murphy as she guides you through the wonderful birds found in these salty Florida aquatic ecosystems.
Register today

SUNCOAST HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY MEETING
2022-01-22 18:00 - 20:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
The Suncoast Herpetological Society is a non-profit, educational, and recreational club for people interested in reptiles and amphibians with an emphasis on responsible husbandry & captive breeding. The Suncoast Herpetological Society provides educational talks to Pinellas County residents as well as the surrounding counties and communities. Each month a speaker discusses a herpetological topic at the meeting, and he or she goes into the community giving talks at libraries, schools and environmental education centers.
www.kingsnake.com/suncoastherpsociety

Penelope’s Birthday Party
2022-01-23 12:00 - 15:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
A celebration of Penelope turning 8 years old! We will have educational materials and learning opportunities for attendees ages 3+, Pin the beak on the eagle, and tiered donation options to sponsor the eagle at the park, as well as our educational programming and opportunities. Snacks will be provided.

How to find us: Picnic Shelter behind the Yellow Building

Tortoise Talk
2022-02-02 15:30 - 16:00 | ROBINSON PRESERVE, 1704 99th Street Northwest, Bradenton, FL, 34209, United States
Join us for this informal program on the Valentine House lawn 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 required. For more information please contact ecoevents@mymanatee.org.
Robinson Preserve – Valentine House Lawn

Soar in 4 Family Night
2022-02-02 17:30 - 19:00 | FL
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.
Birth – 3rd grade students. Free admission, books and learning resources for the entire family.
No reservations required. For more information please visit https://soarin4.org/.

Tot Time
2022-02-04 10:30 - 11:30 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Families with little ones can enjoy nature-oriented stories and crafts at the Weedon Island Preserve.

Every first and third Friday of each month, families of pre-school aged children are invited to explore the wonders of the natural world at the Weedon Island Preserve. Led by volunteer docents, families will be treated to rhymes, songs, stories, and other activities that connect them to our environment.
This program will take place outdoors so please prepare accordingly. Youth must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program.
Proceeds will support the Friends of Weedon Island, a non-profit organization that work to promotes education and conservation of the Weedon Island Preserve.
REGISTER HERE

Weedon Walkabout
2022-02-05 09:00 - 11:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Join us for a guided tour of the trails and boardwalks of the Weedon Island Preserve.

This docent-led walk will visit the mangrove and upland ecosystems of the Weedon Island Preserve, including a visit to the Preserve’s 45 ft. tall Observation Tower for a 360 degree view of the area. Learn about the coastal environment, native wildlife, and early history of the Preserve. This program is recommended for adults and youth ages 6 and up.
REGISTER HERE

Youth Program: The Swamp Ecosystem
2022-02-05 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Learn about one of Florida’s amazing and unique ecosystems: the swamp, in a hands on and creative way!

Learn about one of Florida’s amazing and unique ecosystems: the swamp, in a hands on and creative way! By pairing science with music and songwriting, this fun, family friendly program is designed to teach students all about Florida swamps, give them the opportunity to meet a LIVE resident of the swamp, and work together to create a song about what they learned! Family Friendly!
Presented by Paige Konger of Paige’s Planet
Additional Notes: Registration is required. This program will be held in our auditorium. It takes about 10 minutes to drive from the preserve entrance (Keystone Rd.) to the parking lot, and there is a 2-5 minute walk from the parking lot to the auditorium. We will start promptly at 2pm. Follow signs to the auditorium.
REGISTER HERE

Jurassic Park at Moccasin Lake!
2022-02-05 15:00 - 20:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
The Friends of Moccasin Lake, the Clearwater Library and the City of Clearwater are delighted to host a free community event, Jurassic Park at Moccasin Lake! Day of Raptors! This one-day event will host a variety of fun Jurassic Park themed education & craft stations, snacks, and a movie on the lawn at 6 p.m.
Please bring your own lawn chairs.
To learn more, call 727-562- 4315, ext. 1 for details.

How to Use Your Telescope
2022-02-05 18:00 - 19:00 | ROBINSON PRESERVE, 1704 99th Street Northwest, Bradenton, FL, 34209, United States
How to Use Your Telescope — Limited Capacity
In conjunction with our Seeing Stars with The Bishop at Robinson Preserve, we’re also hosting a free program for individuals or small groups. How to Use Your Telescope will take place from 6-7pm before the night-sky viewing begins.
You bring your telescope with you and our experts will show you how to get the most out of it — just be sure to bring it with you! The program is free group size is limited and registration is required.
Register now

Seeing Stars at Robinson Preserve
2022-02-05 19:00 - 21:00 | ROBINSON PRESERVE, 1704 99th Street Northwest, Bradenton, FL, 34209, United States
Seeing Stars with The Bishop at Robinson Preserve
Join us for Seeing Stars with The Bishop at Robinson Preserve, where you’ll enjoy a beautiful view at the Preserve, thanks to our partners at Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources.
We provide the telescopes and the expertise; you enjoy the wonders of our universe. This month, we’ll be featuring the Moon, Uranus, Pleiades and the Orion Nebula (weather permitting, of course)!
The program is free, but advance registration is required. We are limiting audience size to allow for social distancing. Masks are requested.

When: 7-9pm Saturday, February 5
Where: Robinson Preserve, in the Expansion, 10299 9th Ave NW, Bradenton, FL 34209. Parking available.
Cost: Free, but registration is required

Register now

Walk in Nature with Jazz- Guided Hike
2022-02-06 09:30 - 11:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Come and take a walk with two retired music teachers who love Brooker Creek and jazz.

We will hear 12 RECORDED excerpts (from 2-4 minutes each) from various jazz styles that refer to the wonderful natural things we see at Brooker. We will walk about a mile and stop and listen as we enjoy the beauty around us. Registration is required for each attendee.
Guided Hike Information
Volunteer Hike Guides will meet participants inside the Exhibit Hall. We strongly suggest all hikers visit the restroom before we begin as there are no facilities along the trail.

Guided hikes are under a mile in length, much of which is on unimproved, uneven sandy trails.

Hikes take about two (2) hours to complete.

Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes, sneakers or boots.

Insect repellent (bug spray) is strongly recommended in summer months.

Bring plenty of drinking water and a snack.

A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also recommended.

Pets are not permitted.

No smoking is allowed.

Trained volunteers will guide the hike.

REGISTER HERE

Invasive Exotic Plants on Nature Lands
2022-02-08 19:00 - 20:30 | Land O’ Lakes Community Center, 5401 Land O' Lakes Blvd., Land O' Lakes, FL, United States
The Nature Coast Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society meets the second Tuesday of every month at 7:00 PM at The Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park Community Center, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd/US 41, Land O’ Lakes, 34639, between SR 52 and SR 54. The subject of the February 8, 2022 meeting is “Invasive Exotic Plants on Nature Lands” presented by Michael Terry. This presentation will focus on the invasive plant species on the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s (SWFWMD) Upper Hillsborough Tract – 6,978 acres that protects the upper reaches of the Hillsborough River. This river’s floodplain provides natural storage of floodwaters, acts as a filtration system for runoff and serves as an important link in protecting wildlife habitat in the Hillsborough River greenway corridor. Mike will identify some of the invasive plant species on the property, describe the damage they cause, and explain what is being done to remove these invasives from this property.
Michael is the Senior Vegetation Management Specialist in the Operations and Land Management Bureau with SWFWMD. He has been with the District for 37 years, working with terrestrial and aquatic exotic vegetation. His duties include working with private contractors on SWFWMD lands to oversee their exotic treatment and helicopter surveys for Old World Climbing Fern. He also works control burns and wildfires as needed.
Meetings of the Chapter are free, and all interested parties are invited to attend and bring questions about their yard. There will not be any refreshments or drinks available, so everyone needs to bring their own. Please wear a mask! Telephone inquiries are taken by Molly at (813) 469-9597.
Chapter website: http://www.pasconativeplants.org.

Florida State Fair
2022-02-10 - 2022-02-20 | Florida State Fairgrounds, 4800 US Hwy. 301 North, Tampa, FL, 33610, United States
12 Days of Thrills, Exhibits & Entertainment
Admission Gate Hours:
Weekdays Open at 11:00 AM
Weekends Open at 10:00 AM
Closing times are subject to change each night and are subject to change pending weather and other conditions.
Midway Hours:
Weekdays Open at 1:00 PM
Weekends Open at 10:30 AM
Midway and Games close an hour and a half after the close of the admission gates.
PRICES & TICKETS

Gardening 101: The Scoop on Dirt
2022-02-11 10:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
This course will cover basics of Florida soils and how to build a healthy foundation for your plants.

Join UF/IFAS Extension Manatee County for the inside scoop on dirt! New to gardening in Florida? We have the info you need to be successful. This course will cover basics of Florida soils and how to build a healthy foundation for your plants.
In person at the Demonstration Garden at the Extension office (1303 17th St W, Palmetto, FL 34221)
REGISTER HERE

Birding Tour: Tom Bennett Park
2022-02-12 07:30 - 10:30 | Tom Bennett Park, 280 Kay Road, Bradenton, FL, 34208, United States
Manatee Audubon Society Birding Tour: Tom Bennett Park
Search the skies for Florida’s fabulous fliers! Our Audubon guide will lead participants on a tour through Tom Bennett Park’s upland and wetland habitats. Check out the “locals” as well as the migratory birds that are wintering here. Program suitable for adults.
Program sponsored by Manatee County Audubon Society in partnership with Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources.
Reservations are required. To register please contact ford.tony23@yahoo.com.
Tom Bennett Park – Playground Parking Lot

Photography Hike
2022-02-12 08:30 - 10:30 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Walk the boardwalks and natural paths of Weedon Island, capturing photographs of native flora and fauna along the way.

Grab your camera of choice and enjoy a guided tour of the trails at the Weedon Island Preserve! This program will begin with a brief classroom session to highlight the seasonal features of the Preserve, as well as specific wildlife behaviors, that will help participants capture the natural beauty of the area. Photographers of all skill levels are welcome.
This hike is roughly 2 miles in total length on a combination of boardwalks and unimproved, natural paths. This program is is best suited for adults.
Proceeds will support the Friends of Weedon Island, a non-profit organization that works to promote education and conservation of the Weedon Island Preserve. Learn about our Friends!
REGISTER HERE

Plant Food 101 (Zoom workshop)
2022-02-16 09:00 - 11:00 | Online Event
Join us for Plant Food 101! Come find out what plants need to grow.

Join us for Plant Food 101! In this two-hour workshop, we will covering basic plant nutrition. Learn about the role that nitrogen, potassium, and other elements play within a plant. For more information, please contact, Mack Lessig, at (941) 722-4524 ext.1821 or mlessig@ufl.edu
REGISTER HERE

Gardening 101: Which End is Up?
2022-02-18 10:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
This class will cover planting methods for a variety of different plants, from herbs to trees and everything in between.

Join UF/IFAS Extension Manatee County to learn about planting your garden. New to gardening in Florida? We have the info you need to be successful. This class will cover planting methods for a variety of different plants, from herbs to trees and everything in between.
In person at the Demonstration Garden at the Extension office (1303 17th St W, Palmetto, FL 34221)
REGISTER HERE
