(VA) (NOVA Parks) Test your Pokémon knowledge in PokéJeopardy and learn how to use a real life Pokédex! Explore the park with our Roving Naturalist, identify a variety of species, complete challenges, and help collect citizen science data for iNaturalist. Ages 5+
(DC) (National Park Service) During this ½ mile excursion, young explorers learn the hiking essentials, such as trail safety, what to wear or bring to a hike, and how to Rrecreate Rresponsibly all while looking at nature and respecting nature found in our woodlands. This ranger-led hike is intended to create treasured trail experiences for families interested in planning more ...
(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.
(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) (Montgomery Parks) Come out to the Discovery Center and spend some time outdoors! We will explore the trails, play games in the fields and forests, and make the most of what Black Hill has to offer.
(MD) (Montgomery Parks) Celebrate New Year’s Eve with Smokey Bear! Enjoy various activities, a campfire with s’mores, and of course, a noon countdown to ring in the New Year!
(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, ...
(DC) (Friends of the National Arboretum) Join our nature and forest therapy guide in this two-hour program that encourages you to slow down and take in the National Arboretum through all your senses. Forest bathing, or shinrin yoku, is the simple practice of taking in the woods through the senses for health benefits. The benefits are immense: boosted immunity, lowered ...
(VA) (Virginia State Parks) While Americans traditionally ring in the New Year at midnight on New Year's Eve, other cultures welcome it with the first sunrise of New Year's Day. Join rangers for this unique experience, witnessing the sky transition from dark to light as a new day and a new year dawns. While on top of the Piedmont Overlook, we will ...
(VA) (Fairfax County Parks) Take a hike with a naturalist in the early morning to view the stunning first sunrise of the year as it crests over the lake. Rejuvenate as you walk along the park trails and signal in the new year. Ages 4 to Adult.
(VA) (Virginia State Parks) State Parks throughout Virginia will be hosting guided and self-guided First Day Hikes. Sky Meadows Park will host four First Hike and related events on January 1st, and Mason Neck State Park will host three hike events. See guided and self-guided hikes throughout the Virginia park system here.
(VA) (Virginia State Parks) Immerse yourself in the serene wooded landscape just after sunrise on New Year's Day, where the soft light filters through the trees and the sounds of nature come alive. This invigorating hike spans approximately 3.8 miles along a well-maintained packed dirt trail, which features a variety of terrain, including stairs and exposed tree roots that add ...
