Holiday Lights in the Gardens 2024
2024-12-03 17:30 - 21:30, 2024-12-04 17:30 - 21:30, 2024-12-05 17:30 - 21:30, 2024-12-06 17:30 - 21:30, 2024-12-07 17:30 - 21:30, 2024-12-08 17:30 - 21:30, 2024-12-09 17:30 - 21:30, 2024-12-10 17:30 - 21:30 (America/New_York) and 2 more dates | Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo, FL, 33778, United States
This winter fundraiser runs from Friday, November 29th, 2024-Saturday, January 4, 2025 from 5:30-9:30 PM nightly.
There is a suggested donation of $10 per person, with kids 12 and under free.
The Florida Botanical Gardens will sparkle with 1 million, twinkling, LED lights in a multitude of colors. Vibrant laser lights and lighted figures round out our display to wow guests of all ages. The opening of our new Majeed Discovery Garden will take this already awesome event to the next level. You won’t want to miss it! Interested in being a sponsor? See the information below.
Kids Activities
There will be free kids activities in the Majeed Discovery Garden every Sunday and Thursday evening throughout the month of December.
Participate in this community event while enjoying the twinkling lights. Learn more about volunteering here: www.flbgfoundation.org/volunteer.

Reptile Wednesdays with Dennis!
2024-12-04 10:00 - 11:00, 2024-12-11 10:00 - 11:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Dennis is the president of the Suncoast Herpetological Society, Inc. and spends his Wednesdays at Moccasin Lake Nature Park educating guests about reptiles. Come with your questions!
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Winter Wonders with Florida-Friendly Landscaping™
2024-12-04 11:00 - 12:00 | East Lake Library, 4125 E Lake Road, Palm Harbor
Winter Wonders with Florida-Friendly Landscaping™
Discover the joys of winter gardening in Florida, with an FFL Educator! We will explore the importance of choosing native and drought-resistant plants that not only beautify your garden but also support and attract local wildlife throughout the winter months. Also, learn about migrating birds that call Florida home during this magnificent season and how to provide for them.
Register Here

Weedon Island BioBlitz 2024!
2024-12-05 09:30 - 14:30 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Join us for a fun filled day of exploration, science, and nature!
Families with youth will become Weedon Island Explorers and Scientists as we learn about our environment and take to the trails to see what we can find! No experience necessary. All you need is a smartphone, your family, and the spirit of adventure (sunscreen and bug spray is also recommended)!
We will be tracking our observations under the project “Weedon Island BioBlitz 2024!” in the free iNaturalist app. Haven’t used iNat before? No problem! We will guide everyone through the process of using the app in the morning.
This biological survey allows us to see what plants, animals, and fungi exist within our environment at this moment of time. We can use this data to see how things change day to day, season to season, or throughout the years.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Agenda

9:30 AM – 10:00 AM – Introduction and INaturalist Demonstration

10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Morning BioBlitz Session

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Lunch Break

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM – Hurricane Impact Discussion

1:00 PM – 2:00 PM – Afternoon BioBlitz Session

2:00 PM – 2:30 PM – Reflection & Wrap Up

Ground Covers - Plants That Work
2024-12-05 10:00 - 12:00 | Manatee County Agriculture and Extension Office, 1303 17th St W, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Learn about ground covers you can use in place of turfgrass.
Join Valrie Massey, Horticulture Program Assistant, as she presents how landscaping with low-growing ground cover plants has become a popular trend in landscape practices because once they are established, these plants will need little or no water. Learn noteworthy plants, site considerations, and management of these plants.
This class satisfies the landscape educational requirement for the Manatee County Outdoor Water Conservation Rebate Program.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
The University of Florida is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. For disability accommodations such as sign language interpreters and listening devices, please contact our office at (941) 722-4524 at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Book Time at Brooker
2024-12-05 10:30 - 11:30, 2024-12-12 10:30 - 11:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Bring your pre-schooler to Book Time at Brooker.

Bring your Preschooler to this program designed to connect them to the wonders of the natural world. In addition to hearing a great story, your child will participate in a craft related to the story that is read. This activity is recommended for ages 3 to 5.
Registration is not required for Book Time, just show up with your kiddo! This program is led by Brooker Creek Volunteers.
Additional Notes: 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 Education Center building. We will start promptly at 10:30am. Follow signs to the Exhibit Hall.
REGISTER HERE

Farming at Boyd Hill Garden
2024-12-05 15:30 - 17:00, 2024-12-12 15:30 - 17:00 | Pinellas Pioneer Settlement, 3130 31st Street South, St. Petersburg, FL, 33712, United States
Fun, hands-on education on organic gardening, raising chickens, and fun activities from 4-H curricula.
Ages 7 yrs – 11 yrs
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Tot Time
2024-12-06 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-themed stories and crafts at the Weedon Island Preserve.

Families of pre-school aged children are invited to explore the wonders of the natural world at the Weedon Island Preserve. Families will be treated to rhymes, stories, songs, crafts, and other activities that connect them to our environment. Activities are intended for youth aged 3-5.
Parents or guardians only need to register the youth(s) attending, but must accompany them for the duration of the program. This program will take place inside the Cultural and Natural History Center unless otherwise specified.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
Proceeds will support the Friends of Weedon Island, a non-profit organization that work to promotes education and conservation of the Weedon Island Preserve.

Health Benefits of Therapy Gardens and Indoor Plants
2024-12-06 12:00 - 13:30 | ZOOM, United States
Florida-Friendly Friday:
Health Benefits of Therapy Gardens and Indoor Plants
Learn about the health benefits plants can have in your everyday life.
The fast pace of everyday life can be stressful. Why don’t you take a moment for yourself and learn how you can find tranquility through indoor plants and therapy gardens? Join an FFL Educator, where she will teach you about the benefits of houseplants, indoor gardens, and therapy gardens to help you find serenity and peace of mind.
Register Here

Bird Walk at Boyd Hill
2024-12-07 08:00 - 09:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Join the St. Petersburg Audubon Society for a birdwatching hike at Boyd Hill, where you’ll spot a variety of native species while learning about their habits and habitats.
Perfect for bird enthusiasts of all levels! Binoculars are available for loan.
All ages welcome with a registered adult.

>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Native Plant Walks LLP
2024-12-07 09:00 - 10:00 | Lettuce Lake Conservation Park, 6920 East Fletcher Avenue, Tampa, FL, 33637, United States
This program is led by the Suncoast Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society’s Joel Jackson and Tina Patterson and supported by Tampa Audubon.
Come and learn about the real natural Florida and why it is so important to protect it during a plant walk at Lettuce Lake. The walks take place the first Saturday of the month, with no walks in July, August or December.
Meet in the visitor center for a short orientation slide show, then the walk is on the park’s boardwalk and nature trails.
Things to know

Program is free, but the $2 per vehicle (up to eight people) park entry fee applies
Walk will last approximately 1-1/2 to 2 hours
Expect to walk 1 mile
Maximum of 25 participants
For larger parties, please email Suncoast Native Plant Society’s Joel Jackson
Meet at the Visitor’s Center

Things to bring

Water
Comfortable shoes
Sunscreen
Hat, if needed

Emerson Point Preserve Tour
2024-12-07 09:00 - 11:00 | Emerson Point Preserve, 5801 17th St W, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
First Saturday of the month (December – April), at 9:00am
Casually stroll through the beautiful Emerson Point Preserve and learn about Florida’s native plants and inhabitants of a coastal environment. Suitable for all ages.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
Meet at the first parking area on the RIGHT at the Observation Tower (not at the classroom).
The University of Florida is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. For disability accommodations such as sign language interpreters and listening devices, please contact our office at (941) 722-4524 at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Audubon’s Birds of America Exhibit
2024-12-07 10:30 - 12:30 | Museum of Fine Arts, 255 Beach Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, 33701, United States
The Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg is thrilled to bring Audubon’s Birds of America to St. Petersburg. Produced by National Museums Scotland, this exhibition celebrates the extraordinary legacy of John James Audubon (1785 –1851). It tells the story of this iconic artist, naturalist, and ornithologist, as well as the evolution of one of the world’s rarest, largest, and possibly most coveted books, The Birds of America.
The exhibition features over 40 of these splendid hand-colored prints, as well as additional illustrations, books, letters, photographs, and ephemera. The majority of these delicate pieces have never been shown in public and have undergone years of conservation treatment in preparation for their inaugural display and tour.
Come and join us on a docent-led tour on Saturday, December 7 at 10:30 a.m. for 20 people. The cost is $25/person.
For more information, go to https://mfastpete.org/exh/audubons-birds-of-america/
Important! Pre-registration is required, and participation is limited. Please do not attend this or any Tampa Audubon Society events if you have flu, cold, or covid symptoms. Tampa Audubon is committed to reducing the spread of illnesses. The health and safety of our members is of the highest priority.
RSVP to trip leader Ann Paul at president@tampaaudubon.org

Children's Book Reading with the Author: Can He Keep It?
2024-12-07 10:30 - 23:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Join us for a special Children’s book reading with local author Connie Nye!
This engaging story helps children understand the importance of stewardship and putting creatures back where they were found. Children will have the opportunity to engage and ask questions after the reading. Connie’s program will also include an opportunity to observe pond critters caught on site and a chance to dip net (weather permitting)!
Books will be available for purchase and signing by the author in the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve’s Nature Store after the program!
This youth program is geared toward ages 4 to 8. Registration is required. Please register just your child (children).
Additional Notes: It takes about 10 minutes to drive from the preserve entrance (Keystone Rd.) to the parking lot, and there is a 3-5 minute walk from the parking lot to the Education Center buildings. This program meets in the Auditorium.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Bay Babies
2024-12-07 11:00 - 12:00 | Tampa Bay Watch Marine & Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
Come join us with your young scientists!
Ages 3 yrs – 6 yrs
This program is for the youngest ocean explorers. Bay Babies is offered for 3 to 6 year olds monthly. Each session includes story time, crafts, activities, and animal interactions to keep your little one(s) engaged and excited. Program is held in our indoor classroom and space is limited.
Children must be accompanied by an adult while in the classroom
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Birding on the Bay
2024-12-07 16:30 - 18:00 | Tampa Bay Watch Marine & Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
The Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center Presents:
Birding on the Bay with the MFA

Join us for an unforgettable birdwatching experience on the waters of Tampa Bay! This 75-minute guided boat tour offers a front-row seat to the fascinating bird species that call this vibrant ecosystem home. During the tour, we’ll visit a nearby bird sanctuary island, strategically timed to provide the best viewing opportunities for observing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
As we navigate the waters, your expert guide will share insightful details about the diverse bird species you’ll encounter, from elegant waders to soaring seabirds. With our prime location and optimal timing, you’re sure to enjoy exceptional views of these feathered residents as they go about their daily routines.
This tour is perfect for bird enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone looking to explore the rich wildlife of Tampa Bay in a relaxed and educational setting.

>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
More Information

75 Minutes
$45 ($5 member discount offered)
Tour includes admission to the MFA and TBWDC.
Children under 3 free
November 2024 to February 2025

What to Bring
-You are welcome to bring your own snacks and/ or beverages.
-We do not allow alcohol on the eco-vessel.
-Please dress with consideration to the Florida climate and weather.
-Sun protection is highly recommended.

Family Night Hike
2024-12-07 18:00 - 19:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Bring the whole family for our monthly family night hike at Boyd Hill.
Explore the trials under the stars, discover nocturnal wildlife, and enjoy the wonders of nature together on this fun and educational adventure.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

S'mores with Santa
2024-12-13 17:00 - 19:00 | Boyd Hill – Pioneer Settlement, 2900 31ST ST S Gate 2, St. Petersburg, FL, 33712, United States
You’ve had cookies with Santa, but have you had s’mores? Join the rangers, Santa, and his elves as we hang around the campfire making some yummy s’mores.
Take photos with Santa in the decorated Brantley Building at the Pioneer Settlement. There will be additional photo ops as well.
Register here
