Explore Black history in Montgomery County this weekend as part of Black History Month. Per Montgomery Parks: “Get ready for spring — plan your gardens and landscape with the advice of experts and register for the season’s exciting classes, camps, outings, and events.” Holiday Operating Hours/President’s Day weekend offers unique programs, additional Open Parkways hours, or family fun.
• Curate thoughtful and environmentally friendly gardens and landscapes with the advice from experts at GreenScapes Symposium, a live Zoom event on Friday, Feb. 17 at 9:30 am. This is your final chance to learn the latest advancements in landscape design strategies and how to employ them in private or public gardens.
• Connect with the past and learn local Black history at Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park at Black History Month Family Day on Saturday, Feb. 18. Explore the Underground Railroad Experience Trail and stop by the Visitor Center for take-home activities great for children ages 5-12.
• Elevate your mental health and feel the benefits of nature firsthand through Strolls for Well-Being at Brookside Gardens. Register today for this eight-week program that draws on psychological principles and can boost mental fortitude.
• Ever ponder what a raptor eats for lunch? Hear directly from our experts at Raptor Caretaker Chats on Saturday, Feb. 18, to learn the daily diet of our raptors and how they care for these birds of prey. Thank goodness for FeederWatch Friday on Friday, Feb. 24. During this community science project, count the number of bird species that flock to a bird feeder at Locust Grove Nature Center. All levels of birders welcome.
• Strengthen friendships, make new acquaintances, and play games at the Never Grow Up: Playdates for 55+ at North Four Corners Local Park. Starting on Wednesday, Mar. 1, this is the first in a monthly series and will kick off with live Irish folk music.
• Scouting locations for your upcoming gathering or business meeting? Check out Seneca Lodge Mini Open House on March 1 to see the natural space up close and meet the staff. Save the date! Kick off your St. Patrick’s Day Festivities with Parks Ale Trail on Saturday, Mar. 11— a hybrid festival and hiking experience! Spread between two locations and joined by a hiking trail, you can enjoy local breweries, live music, food vendors, and play lawn games.
Registration is now open for most spring classes and camps! Anglers, kayakers, skaters, horticulturalists, and nature lovers of all ages can find a class, camp, or outing that fits their interests throughout Montgomery County Parks facilities.