Capital Nature

(VA) (Friends of Dyke Marsh) Join FODM for a bird walk every Sunday at 8 a.m. The Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve is a freshwater, tidal marsh on the Virginia side of the Potomac River in Fairfax County. It is a unit of the George Washington Memorial Parkway, U.S. National Park Service.

(DC) (Rock Creek Park) Join Rock Creek Conservancy, the National Park Service and Rock Creek Weed Warrior Leader Kathy Sykes for this invasive plant removal restoration event in Rock Creek Park. Invasive plants are a major threat to our fragile forests, and stopping their spread helps allow native plants to thrive in the understory. Event location, directions, and information will be ...

(DC) (Rock Creek Conservancy) Join Rock Creek Conservancy, the National Park Service and Weed Warrior Leader Ella Engstrom for this invasive plant removal restoration event in Rock Creek Park. Invasive plants are a major threat to our fragile forests, and stopping their spread helps allow native plants to thrive in the understory. Event location, directions, and information will be sent from ...

(VA) (Fairfax County) Take a hike through the woods with a naturalist to listen and look for the park’s winter avian residents and migrants. Find out what birds do to survive the winter weather. Ages 4 to Adult.

(VA) (Friends of Huntley Meadows) The Monday Morning Bird Walk is sponsored by the Friends of Huntley Meadows Park and takes place every Monday at 8 a.m. Following the walk, members of the group gather at the nearby Denny’s for breakfast and to compile the morning’s bird list. All are welcome.  

(MD) (Nature Forward) Late fall and early winter offers a wealth of interesting plant material perfect for pencil drawing. Learn the basics of drawing botanical subjects in pencil with Nature Forward member Jen Brown this fall. First we will cover basic pencil handling techniques and how to depict light and shadow in graphite. Then we will work on ways to ...

(DC) (Tregaron Conservancy) Join David Harold for Tai Chi practice on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. We will gather west of the Lily Pond near the entrance at Klingle Road NW. David is passionate about making Taiji and Qigong practice and principles accessible. For 15 years, he led a free, weekly public outdoor practice in Winston-Salem, NC. That practice continues to be led ...

(DC) (National Zoo) MOO! OINK! CLUCK! Join us for creative, drop-in play at the Zoo as we learn about different animals that live on the farm. This week, we explore some of our beloved animals from the Kids Farm' exhibit- our cows, chickens, and kunekune pigs. We'll create our own muddy kunekune pigs, practice animal caretaking tasks like collecting eggs ...

(DC) (Smithsonian Natural History Museum) What do brighter nights mean for people and wildlife? Through over 100 photographs, nearly 250 objects, interactive experiences, tactile models, and a theater program, discover why dark nights matter, rekindle your connection with the night sky, and consider how much light at night is enough—for whom, for what purpose, and who gets to decide? Open ...

(MD) (Rock Creek Conservancy) Artist Sophia McCrocklin’s larger-than-life botanical fiber sculptures explore art’s crucial role in enhancing human relationships with the environment. By spotlighting the grandeur of leaves, seed pods, and ferns from Rock Creek Park’s understory, McCrocklin documents the beauty and reverence of the species at the frontline of climate change. The exhibit is available to view during Writer's ...

(VA) (NOVA Parks) Enjoy the autumn colors on a guided walk around Meadowlark's 95 acres.  Each one-hour walk will be over hilly terrain, have a positive focus, and include a silent, meditative portion and a few interesting facts from our docent along the way. This is a drop-in activity.  No reservations are required. Ages 18+.

(DC) (Smithsonian Asian Art Museum) Meditation helps us build a relationship to a place of inner quietude. Whether you’re a beginner or a skilled practitioner, join us for free online meditation sessions each week led by DC-based meditation teachers on Tuesdays and Fridays. Friday sessions include inspiration from art in the museum collections, much of which is inspired by nature, ...

(VA) (Audubon Society of Northern Virginia) Many know Northern Virginia for its economic dynamism, cultural development and ever-changing landscape.  Less well known are the places sheltering remnants of an earlier, vital, natural history.  If you would like to discover native birds, other fauna and flora — in the company of dedicated citizen scientists — then consider joining one or more ...

(VA) (Arlington Parks) Join members of the Northern Virginia Bird Club for informal walks through Glencarlyn Park in search of resident and migratory birds. Experienced and beginning birders welcome. Bring binoculars and field guides if you have them. Adults.

(MD) (Montgomery Parks) Tai Chi is an ancient, Chinese form of exercise perfect for adults seeking stress reduction while strengthening muscles, improving balance, and increasing flexibility. The Forms are repetitive patterns that emphasize slow, flowing motions and controlled movements. Classes will help beginners to learn the Forms while providing regular practitioners the guidance of an experienced instructor. Class size limited ...

(MD) (Montgomery Parks) Make a long-lasting beautiful wreath using fresh greens! Learn to make an evergreen wreath for your front door, complete with a pinecone and bow accents. Fee includes all materials for one wreath. Instructor: Jason Gedeik, Brookside Gardens staff  

(DC) (Nature Forward) Conservation Cafe on Wednesday, December 4th: From Outreach to Real Change: Community Resilience in the Climate Crisis will include a panel discussion with Nature Forward partners from Ward 7 Resilience Hub Community Coalition and Washington Interfaith Network about climate justice issues that intersect with the livelihoods of residents in DC. The panel discussion will identify issues, connect policy priorities ...

(DC) (Hillwood) Create a traditional, one-of-a-kind holiday decoration of hearty evergreens to enliven your home at this in-person workshop. Your finished wreath will be approximately sixteen to eighteen inches wide and can be hung indoors or out. All materials are included. Payment is required in advance and is non-refundable. This program will take place indoors and is limited to twelve ...

(MD) (Rock Creek Conservancy) Artist Sophia McCrocklin’s larger-than-life botanical fiber sculptures explore art’s crucial role in enhancing human relationships with the environment. By spotlighting the grandeur of leaves, seed pods, and ferns from Rock Creek Park’s understory, McCrocklin documents the beauty and reverence of the species at the frontline of climate change. The exhibit is available to view during Writer's ...

(MD) (Montgomery Parks) Make a long-lasting beautiful centerpiece or wreath using fresh greens! The centerpieces will include a candle and seasonal decorations. Fee includes all materials for two centerpieces. Instructor: Jason Gedeik, Brookside Gardens staff  

(VA) (Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy) Join Nancy Morgan, Director Emeritus, Georgetown Lombardi Arts and Humanities Program, for this monthly  opportunity, presented by Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy, to enjoy the combined health benefits of time spent in nature and writing thoughts and feelings.  Writing is often considered a solo, reflective practice, but writing in the company of others can be a supportive, community ...

(MD) (Montgomery Parks) Are you interested in birding? Do you want to be part of a national community science project? Then, join us at Locust Grove Nature Center for Project FeederWatch. Project FeederWatch is a seasonal community science project, where participants count the different species of birds that flock to a bird feeder. All levels of birders are welcome.

(VA) (NOVA Parks) "Whooooo cooks for youuuu? Whoooo cooks for youuuu allllll?" No, this is not a chef looking for a job! This is the call of a Barred Owl, perhaps Northern Virginia's most frequently observed owl. Join the roving naturalist on a quest to find these feathered friends. Learn more about owl adaptations, behavior, and role in the ecosystem ...

(DC) (National Park Service) Come check out this seasonal pop-up exhibit in the Rock Creek Nature Center to learn about the plants of the winter solstice. Craft your own winter solstice-plant inspired decoration to help us decorate the exhibit hall for the holiday season. Ongoing through Dec. 29th.

(MD) (Montgomery Parks) Are you interested in birding? Do you want to be part of a national community science project? Then, join us at Locust Grove Nature Center for Project FeederWatch. Project FeederWatch is a seasonal community science project, where participants count the different species of birds that flock to a bird feeder. All levels of birders are welcome. Ages ...

(VA) (Arlington Parks) Flying squirrels are found throughout the wooded neighborhoods of Arlington, but are seldom seen. Join us to learn about these nocturnal rodents in our classroom, then see wild flying squirrels outdoors. Dress for the weather, it can become very cold.

(VA) (Fairfax County Parks) Tour beautiful Colvin Run by candlelight. Discover how different a 200-year old mill looks at night and visit the miller’s house decorated for the holidays. Learn how families of the mill spent the winter months and enjoy some holiday treats. Space is limited.

(MD) (DC Bird Alliance) We're teaming up with our friends at PG Parks and with expert birder and award-winning photographer, Matt Felperin, to capture the Bald Eagles of Conowingo Dam. Here's your chance to see dozens -- even more -- Bald Eagles! Conowingo Dam at Fisherman's Park is one of the largest congregations of migrating Bald Eagles in the Mid-Atlantic. Time-permitting, we'll ...

(MD) (Casey Trees) Welcome to our fall season of Community Tree Plantings! Join us in planting trees at Langley Terrace Apartments. You provide the volunteers, we provide all the necessary tools and supplies to plant the trees. Participants will receive a hands-on training on site. After learning the tools and techniques, participants will be split up into groups supervised by ...

(MD) (Nature Forward) Join expert naturalists on a leisurely walk through the habitats at Woodend. Explore the wonders of trees, meadows, streams, insects, birds, and everything Woodend has to offer!

(VA) (NOVA Parks) Join us as we work to keep our park healthy and beautiful!  Assist with invasive plant removal, habitat restoration, and other projects as needed.  Come dressed for and prepared to work outdoors. Gloves and snippers are recommended, but extras may be provided if needed.  Meet at the picnic shelter (located in main parking lot). Ages 9 +

(VA) (Arlington Parks) Holiday crafters are invited to create their own evergreen wreath to spruce up your home or give as special gifts. We’ll provide music, refreshments, basic instruction and enough materials for each participant to make a wreath and we'll have extra for arrangements or swags. Participants should bring hand pruners or wire cutters (if you have them) and ...

(VA) (Arlington Parks) Each Tiny Tot program will engage your child with hands-on learning and may include a variety of activities like songs, games, crafts, and mini-hikes. Tiny Tot programs are offered throughout the year at Gulf and Long Branch Nature Centers. Each program has a theme which incorporates aspects of the park and its wildlife into the programs. Ages ...

(DC) (Rock Creek Park) Join Rock Creek Conservancy, the National Park Service, and Weed Warrior Leader Kathy Sykes for this invasive plant removal restoration event in Rock Creek Park. Invasive plants are a major threat to our fragile forests, and stopping their spread helps allow native plants to thrive in the understory. Event location, directions, and information will be sent ...

(DC) (Rock Creek Conservancy) Join Rock Creek Conservancy, the National Park Service, and Stream Team Leader Zoë Abrahm for a litter removal restoration event in Rock Creek Park. Trash is the visible form of stormwater pollution, a major threat to water quality and park health and its removal makes the parklands cleaner, safer, and more beautiful for all. Event location, ...

(MD) (Montgomery Parks) Join Maria, Weed Warrior Supervisor, for a non-native, invasive plant removal workday in Rock Creek Stream Valley Unit 6 at the Parklawn Community Garden. We will focus on non-native, invasive vines, especially wisteria (Wisteria sinensis and Wisteria floribunda). Native Virginia creeper and poison ivy are also present and beneficial, so we will avoid those. Instructions will be sent ...

(MD) (Montgomery Parks) Come to the Discovery Center and learn about our winged visitors at our bird feeding stations. Then we’ll take a short hike to our bird blind to see which waterfowl are on the lake and make a treat for you to take home for your backyard birds. Binoculars and guidebooks are supplied, but you can also bring ...

(DC) (Friends of the National Arboretum) Shop for Christmas trees, wreaths, and garlands during the annual sale. You can also pre-order your greenery! Have them delivered to your house, or pick them up at the Arboretum on December 7th. Pre-ordering is not required but guarantees you a great tree at the best price. When pre-ordering, please select “Friends of the ...

(DC) (Friends of Oxon Run) Join Meredith from CCAN and Friends of Oxon Run to remove Invasive Vines at Oxon Run Park in Washington, DC. We will meet at the James. E. Bunn Amphitheater at 9am. We will spend the first hour doing an in-depth training on invasive vines and best practices for removal, then we will head further into ...

(VA) (Friends of Dyke Marsh) Help protect native plants by pulling and clipping invasive plants. We will train volunteers to identify the five or so target plants. Register to join us in any of these sessions. Invasive plants can threaten and outcompete native plants. We kindly ask that you not bring pets. December 7 and 21 January 4 and 18 ...

(DC) (Ward 8 Woods) Give back to the earth, exercise your body, spend time in nature and meet cool people with the Ward 8 Woods Conservancy. Known as a busy commuter route between central Washington to its eastern suburbs, the Suitland Parkway is also a nature preserve, flanked on each side by over 300 acres of forested hillside. Sadly, the ...

(DC) (US National Arboretum) Join the US National Arboretum, the Friends of the National Arboretum, and community and civic leaders for a brief speaking program and community conversation with the curator. From 1934 through 1941, the members of Civilian Conservation Corps Company 1360 transformed a patchwork of abandoned farms into a landscape worthy of hosting the National Arboretum. A new, ...

(DC) (National Museum of Asian Art) In this workshop, you'll learn to write poetry based on visual art by using paintings in the exhibition Shifting Boundaries: Perspectives on American Landscapes. Learn ekphrastic poetry techniques from poet Ariana Benson, including the use of vivid sensory language, fabulation of narrative within and beyond the frame, and lyric persona as a means of ...

(DC) (US Botanic Garden) During this illuminating lecture, botanist, Distinguished Scientist and Curator Emeritus W. John Kress, Ph.D., will discuss his new book, Smithsonian Trees of North America. Ten years in the making, this comprehensive compendium takes a careful look at the diversity, morphology, and beauty of over 325 tree species. Dr. Kress will discuss the extensive research behind the ...

(DC) (Anacostia Watershed Society) Join the Anacostia Watershed Society (AWS) and National Links Trust (NLT) for a Habitat Restoration Workday! During this workday you will help AWS with our invasive plant control and revegetation efforts along the riverside area of Kingman Island. We will be meeting at the driving range. This is part of a natural resources management plan for ...

(VA) (NOVA Parks) Join us for a festive wreath-making workshop guided by our talented horticulturists, Sarah Causey and Thomas Bardroff. Participants will create their own beautiful holiday wreath using natural materials gathered throughout the year by the Meadowlark horticulture team. Your wreath may feature a variety of fresh-cut greens (holly, pine, spruce, cedar), dried flowers (such as amaranth, sea holly, ...

(VA) (Kindred Nature and NOVA Parks) Release stress and step into serenity with a guided forest bathing experience, discovering calm in the shift to early winter at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens! Inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku, forest bathing is a way to immerse your senses in the natural world. Slow down, relax, and join certified forest bathing guide Ilana ...

(VA) (Friends of Huntley Meadows) Sip hot cocoa and join a naturalist for a special winter wonder wetland tour after dark. We will look for signs and listen for sounds of beavers, owls, deer and other nocturnal winter animals. Participants are encouraged to bring their own mug to help us reduce waste. Ages 4 to Adult.  

(VA) (Fairfax County Parks) Tour beautiful Colvin Run by candlelight. Discover how different a 200-year old mill looks at night and visit the miller’s house decorated for the holidays. Learn how families of the mill spent the winter months and enjoy some holiday treats. Space is limited.