Calendar of Events
Coming Up Next
Whether it’s a favorite annual event, a hands-on workshop or retreat, or a guided adventure on the trails, there’s something for everyone at the Kalamazoo Nature Center!
Monthly Weekly Daily List Grid
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- 28Preschool Explorers10:00 am - 11:00 pm
Come dressed to explore the outdoors while developing early childhood readiness skills with your child. Each week you and your child will enjoy a nature inspired program based on a monthly theme with centers, a story, a movement activity and a craft. Preschool Explorers runs most Tuesdays all year with different themes , ... - 29
- 30Forest to Shore Lecture Series6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
KNC is proud to partner with the Michigan Maritime Museum for a series of exciting lectures about our Great Lakes! Please click on each date to register: Register for Thursday, July 30– Commercial Fishing on Lake Michigan – From Gill Nets to Grog explores the rich, often gritty history of one of the Great Lakes’ , ... - 31
- 1Nature Journaling10:00 am - 11:30 am
Immerse yourself in the art of slowing down, looking closely, and connecting more deeply with the natural world. These nature journaling workshops are designed for anyone—who wants to cultivate a mindful, creative practice that blends observation, writing, and sketching. These workshops invite you to step outdoors (or view nature from a window) and tune in […] , ...Tai Chi with Ed Kehoe10:00 am - 11:00 am
Start your morning with a relaxing Tai Chi program ideal for participants of all skill levels. Tai Chi is a great way to relax, recenter, and connect yourself with your body. Wear clothes for gentle movement! Saturday, August 1, 2026, 10-11 am Meet: Vista Deck on the Visitor Center Fee: KNC Members $12; Non-Me , ...Cultivating Urban Gardens and Community2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Special guest Katie Pearson from Tabitha Farm is here to talk about regenerative land stewardship here in our local communities! Learn about how urban farming can bring people together while bringing us closer to our food. Saturday, August 1, 2026, 2-3 pm Meet: Cooper’s Glen Auditorium inside the Visitor , ...
- 2Outdoor Art Group1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Looking to relax and unwind with some outdoor art? Stop by for an informal plein air painting and sketching group to sketch the beautiful landscapes of the nature center. We’ll hike from the visitor center together, and learn a little about our ecosystems as we capture them on canvas. Please bring your own art supplie , ... - 3
- 4Preschool Explorers10:00 am - 11:00 pmCome dressed to explore the outdoors while developing early childhood readiness skills with your child. Each week you and your child will enjoy a nature inspired program based on a monthly theme with centers, a story, a movement activity and a craft. Preschool Explorers runs most Tuesdays all year with different themes , ...
- 5
- 6Summer Exploration Series6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Looking for ways to keep your brain going all summer long? The Summer Exploration series is a great way for elementary and middle school scientists to get involved in ecology alongside their grown-ups. Please click on each week to register: Register for June 4– Slime and Scales: Learn about salamanders, snakes, t , ... - 7
- 8Creative Corner10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Flex those creative muscles and stop by the visitor center for some fun unstructured art time! We’ll have an assortment of mediums and crafts to play with, so it’s a great time to relax and get creative. Saturday, August 8, 2026, 10 am-2 pm Sunday, August 9, 2026, 1-3 pm Meet: Visitor Center Classroom Fee: Inclu , ...Saturday Story Time10:00 am - 11:00 am
Join us once a month for a picture book story time, featuring a selection of nature-themed books perfect for little explorers. We’ll follow our book with a gentle hike if weather permits, so be sure to bundle up! September 12, 2026- Goodbye Summer, Hello Autumn by Kenard Pak October 10, 2026- What Makes a Bird? , ...Prairie Power Guided Hike2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Explore the wonders of a grassland sea! Prairies used to cover 240 million acres of our continent, but now these majestic ecosystems are few and far between. We’ll hike the mowed trails of Pitcher Prairie to see, smell and touch the plants and cool creatures who call this sun-swept landscape home. Saturda , ...
- 9Creative Corner1:00 pm - 3:00 pmFlex those creative muscles and stop by the visitor center for some fun unstructured art time! We’ll have an assortment of mediums and crafts to play with, so it’s a great time to relax and get creative. Saturday, August 8, 2026, 10 am-2 pm Sunday, August 9, 2026, 1-3 pm Meet: Visitor Center Classroom Fee: Inclu , ...
- 10
- 11Preschool Explorers10:00 am - 11:00 pmCome dressed to explore the outdoors while developing early childhood readiness skills with your child. Each week you and your child will enjoy a nature inspired program based on a monthly theme with centers, a story, a movement activity and a craft. Preschool Explorers runs most Tuesdays all year with different themes , ...
- 12
- 13Golf Cart Tour10:00 am - 11:00 am
Enjoy KNC at a whole new speed! Hop on the golf cart as we take a binocular tour of some of our most beautiful habitats. Binoculars will be provided. Register for August 13, 10:00 – 11:00AM > Register for August 13, 12:00 – 1:00PM > Meet: Visitor Center Fee: KNC Members $12; Non-Members , ...Golf Cart Tour12:00 pm - 1:00 pmEnjoy KNC at a whole new speed! Hop on the golf cart as we take a binocular tour of some of our most beautiful habitats. Binoculars will be provided. Register for August 13, 10:00 – 11:00AM > Register for August 13, 12:00 – 1:00PM > Meet: Visitor Center Fee: KNC Members $12; Non-Members , ...CANCELLED Youth Mindfulness Night6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
This program has been cancelled. Meet new friends and decompress with a night of yoga and mindfulness for nature lovers between the ages of 16-20. We’ll enjoy gentle yoga, breathe in the evening air, and leave feeling more grounded and connected to the world around us. Thursday, August 13, 2026, 6:30-8:30 pm Mee , ... - 14
- 15Women’s Wilderness Retreat8:30 am - 7:00 pm
Step away from the noise of everyday life and join us for our second annual refreshing one-day retreat designed just for women. Surrounded by the peaceful landscape at KNC’s Stryker Nature Preserve, we’ll gather for reflection, crafts, gentle movement, meaningful conversation, and quiet renewal. Come as you are, , ...Public Bird Training2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Have you ever wondered how we train our birds of prey? Come to the bird mews in the arboretum for a special training session with some of our most charismatic residents and learn more about these majestic raptors and their care. We’ll be outside, so be sure to bundle up and bring your best burning birdy questions! &nb , ...
- 16Guided Butterfly Walks1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Join KNC staff this summer for guided butterfly walks around the Emma Pitcher Prairie. Participants will have the opportunity to search for butterflies, observe them up close, and learn more about what makes each species unique. This will be a great opportunity to see different butterfly species become active as the su , ... - 17
- 18KNC Closed: Staff Work DayAll Day
The Kalamazoo Nature Center is closed for all staff to take part in our seasonal All Staff Workday. , ... - 19
- 20Silver Maples: Intro to Composting11:00 am - 1:00 pm
Join Justin Gish, Kalamazoo’s Sustainability Planner, to talk all things compost; from large-scale industrial setups to the tumblers in our own backyards! This program is geared for adults 50 and up, but all ages are welcome. Meet: Barn on our main campus Fee: Included in regular KNC admission; KNC Members free! Reg , ...Summer Exploration Series6:30 pm - 8:00 pmLooking for ways to keep your brain going all summer long? The Summer Exploration series is a great way for elementary and middle school scientists to get involved in ecology alongside their grown-ups. Please click on each week to register: Register for June 4– Slime and Scales: Learn about salamanders, snakes, t , ... - 21
- 22Risky Play in Nature10:00 am - 11:00 am
Join the staff from Nature’s Way Preschool to learn about the benefits of risky play and how to encourage and develop risky play opportunities for your child. Our preschool team will share photos and video examples demonstrating the developmental gains that children achieve while playing in nature, with time for , ...Discover KNC Guided Hike2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Come explore KNC on a guided hike through some of our favorite areas. Each month will feature a different trail, taking you through our greatest hits and best kept secrets. Dress appropriately for the weather and bring your best trail shoes! Hot tea will be provided- help us reduce waste by bringing your own travel mug , ...Sunset Opera Outdoors6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Spend an evening in the cool breeze of summer’s end, and enjoy a laid-back evening of music with award winning singer Sara Emerson. Lay back, relax, and let the music merge with the sounds of nature. Saturday, August 22, 2026, 6:30-8:00pm Meet: Amphitheater in the arboretum Fee: KNC Members $12; Non-Members , ...
- 23
- 24Bird Banding Up Close8:00 am - 11:00 am
Weather permitting For half a century, the Kalamazoo Valley Bird Observatory’s team of researchers has been banding birds. This long-running program has contributed data on over 650,000 birds to the U.S. Geological Survey’s Bird Banding Laboratory that is actively being used for scientific research, management and con , ... - 25Bird Banding Up Close8:00 am - 11:00 amWeather permitting For half a century, the Kalamazoo Valley Bird Observatory’s team of researchers has been banding birds. This long-running program has contributed data on over 650,000 birds to the U.S. Geological Survey’s Bird Banding Laboratory that is actively being used for scientific research, management and con , ...Preschool Explorers10:00 am - 11:00 pmCome dressed to explore the outdoors while developing early childhood readiness skills with your child. Each week you and your child will enjoy a nature inspired program based on a monthly theme with centers, a story, a movement activity and a craft. Preschool Explorers runs most Tuesdays all year with different themes , ...
- 26Bird Banding Up Close8:00 am - 11:00 amWeather permitting For half a century, the Kalamazoo Valley Bird Observatory’s team of researchers has been banding birds. This long-running program has contributed data on over 650,000 birds to the U.S. Geological Survey’s Bird Banding Laboratory that is actively being used for scientific research, management and con , ...
- 27Bird Banding Up Close8:00 am - 11:00 amWeather permitting For half a century, the Kalamazoo Valley Bird Observatory’s team of researchers has been banding birds. This long-running program has contributed data on over 650,000 birds to the U.S. Geological Survey’s Bird Banding Laboratory that is actively being used for scientific research, management and con , ...Forest to Shore Lecture Series6:30 pm - 7:30 pmKNC is proud to partner with the Michigan Maritime Museum for a series of exciting lectures about our Great Lakes! Please click on each date to register: Register for Thursday, July 30– Commercial Fishing on Lake Michigan – From Gill Nets to Grog explores the rich, often gritty history of one of the Great Lakes’ , ...
- 28Hummingbird Banding8:00 am - 10:00 am
KNC holds the distinct privilege of working alongside two of the only three people in Michigan who are permitted to band Ruby-throated Hummingbirds. These small but mighty birds can tell an incredible story that leads researchers to better understand the species so that they can be properly protected. Banding and docum , ...Bird Banding Up Close8:00 am - 11:00 amWeather permitting For half a century, the Kalamazoo Valley Bird Observatory’s team of researchers has been banding birds. This long-running program has contributed data on over 650,000 birds to the U.S. Geological Survey’s Bird Banding Laboratory that is actively being used for scientific research, management and con , ... - 29Herbal Oil Workshop10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Connect with nature’s harvest and bottle the very best that summer has to offer as we create our own infused herbal oils! Join Lea Sevigny of Joyful Wildcrafting for a guided look into the world of summer herbs. We’ll learn to identify local plants and talk about the ways we can preserve their benefits to use long afte , ...Summer Fungus Walk10:00 am - 11:00 am
Summer’s winding to a close, but the fungal world isn’t slowing down! We’ll learn about what’s fruiting this season and take a light stroll to see what mushrooms are popping up on the trails. Saturday, August 29, 2026, 10-11 am Meet: Visitor Center front desk Fee: Included in regular KNC admission; KNC Members f , ...
- 30Bird Banding Up Close8:00 am - 11:00 amWeather permitting For half a century, the Kalamazoo Valley Bird Observatory’s team of researchers has been banding birds. This long-running program has contributed data on over 650,000 birds to the U.S. Geological Survey’s Bird Banding Laboratory that is actively being used for scientific research, management and con , ...
- 31Bird Banding Up Close8:00 am - 11:00 amWeather permitting For half a century, the Kalamazoo Valley Bird Observatory’s team of researchers has been banding birds. This long-running program has contributed data on over 650,000 birds to the U.S. Geological Survey’s Bird Banding Laboratory that is actively being used for scientific research, management and con , ...
- 1Bird Banding Up Close8:00 am - 11:00 amWeather permitting For half a century, the Kalamazoo Valley Bird Observatory’s team of researchers has been banding birds. This long-running program has contributed data on over 650,000 birds to the U.S. Geological Survey’s Bird Banding Laboratory that is actively being used for scientific research, management and con , ...Preschool Explorers10:00 am - 11:00 pmCome dressed to explore the outdoors while developing early childhood readiness skills with your child. Each week you and your child will enjoy a nature inspired program based on a monthly theme with centers, a story, a movement activity and a craft. Preschool Explorers runs most Tuesdays all year with different themes , ...
- 2Bird Banding Up Close8:00 am - 11:00 amWeather permitting For half a century, the Kalamazoo Valley Bird Observatory’s team of researchers has been banding birds. This long-running program has contributed data on over 650,000 birds to the U.S. Geological Survey’s Bird Banding Laboratory that is actively being used for scientific research, management and con , ...
- 3Bird Banding Up Close8:00 am - 11:00 amWeather permitting For half a century, the Kalamazoo Valley Bird Observatory’s team of researchers has been banding birds. This long-running program has contributed data on over 650,000 birds to the U.S. Geological Survey’s Bird Banding Laboratory that is actively being used for scientific research, management and con , ...
- 4Hummingbird Banding8:00 am - 10:00 amKNC holds the distinct privilege of working alongside two of the only three people in Michigan who are permitted to band Ruby-throated Hummingbirds. These small but mighty birds can tell an incredible story that leads researchers to better understand the species so that they can be properly protected. Banding and docum , ...Bird Banding Up Close8:00 am - 11:00 amWeather permitting For half a century, the Kalamazoo Valley Bird Observatory’s team of researchers has been banding birds. This long-running program has contributed data on over 650,000 birds to the U.S. Geological Survey’s Bird Banding Laboratory that is actively being used for scientific research, management and con , ...
- 5Nature Journaling10:00 am - 11:30 amImmerse yourself in the art of slowing down, looking closely, and connecting more deeply with the natural world. These nature journaling workshops are designed for anyone—who wants to cultivate a mindful, creative practice that blends observation, writing, and sketching. These workshops invite you to step outdoors (or view nature from a window) and tune in […] , ...Raptor Piñata Making10:00 am - 12:00 pm
We love working with our birds of prey, and they need a lot of enrichment to keep their brains active. Help us keep our birds occupied by making bird piñatas! Hiding food in shreddable containers is a great enrichment for our raptors, and it’s great to have unique exciting piñatas for them to destroy. Create a fun new , ...
Monthly Weekly Daily List Grid
August 2026
On Schedule
Golf Cart Tour
Enjoy KNC at a whole new speed! Hop on the golf cart as we take a binocular tour of some of our most beautiful habitats. Binoculars will be provided. Register for August 13, 10:00 – 11:00AM > Register for August 13, 12:00 – 1:00PM > Meet: Visitor Center Fee: KNC Members $12; Non-Members $15 Audience: […]
- On Schedule
Golf Cart Tour
Enjoy KNC at a whole new speed! Hop on the golf cart as we take a binocular tour of some of our most beautiful habitats. Binoculars will be provided. Register for August 13, 10:00 – 11:00AM > Register for August 13, 12:00 – 1:00PM > Meet: Visitor Center Fee: KNC Members $12; Non-Members $15 Audience: […]
- On Schedule
CANCELLED Youth Mindfulness Night
This program has been cancelled. Meet new friends and decompress with a night of yoga and mindfulness for nature lovers between the ages of 16-20. We’ll enjoy gentle yoga, breathe in the evening air, and leave feeling more grounded and connected to the world around us. Thursday, August 13, 2026, 6:30-8:30 pm Meet: Glen […]
- On Schedule
Women’s Wilderness Retreat
Step away from the noise of everyday life and join us for our second annual refreshing one-day retreat designed just for women. Surrounded by the peaceful landscape at KNC’s Stryker Nature Preserve, we’ll gather for reflection, crafts, gentle movement, meaningful conversation, and quiet renewal. Come as you are, and leave feeling grounded, refreshed, and inspired. Schedule of […]
- On Schedule
Public Bird Training
Have you ever wondered how we train our birds of prey? Come to the bird mews in the arboretum for a special training session with some of our most charismatic residents and learn more about these majestic raptors and their care. We’ll be outside, so be sure to bundle up and bring your best burning birdy questions! […]
- On Schedule
Guided Butterfly Walks
Join KNC staff this summer for guided butterfly walks around the Emma Pitcher Prairie. Participants will have the opportunity to search for butterflies, observe them up close, and learn more about what makes each species unique. This will be a great opportunity to see different butterfly species become active as the summer season progresses and as different food and […]
- On Schedule
KNC Closed: Staff Work Day
The Kalamazoo Nature Center is closed for all staff to take part in our seasonal All Staff Workday.
- On Schedule
Silver Maples: Intro to Composting
Join Justin Gish, Kalamazoo’s Sustainability Planner, to talk all things compost; from large-scale industrial setups to the tumblers in our own backyards! This program is geared for adults 50 and up, but all ages are welcome. Meet: Barn on our main campus Fee: Included in regular KNC admission; KNC Members free! Registration recommended, drop-ins welcome Audience: Geared […]
- On Schedule
Summer Exploration Series
Looking for ways to keep your brain going all summer long? The Summer Exploration series is a great way for elementary and middle school scientists to get involved in ecology alongside their grown-ups. Please click on each week to register: Register for June 4– Slime and Scales: Learn about salamanders, snakes, turtles, and all things cold-blooded […]
- On Schedule
Risky Play in Nature
Join the staff from Nature’s Way Preschool to learn about the benefits of risky play and how to encourage and develop risky play opportunities for your child. Our preschool team will share photos and video examples demonstrating the developmental gains that children achieve while playing in nature, with time for questions and discussion. Saturday, August 22, 2026, […]
- On Schedule
Discover KNC Guided Hike
Come explore KNC on a guided hike through some of our favorite areas. Each month will feature a different trail, taking you through our greatest hits and best kept secrets. Dress appropriately for the weather and bring your best trail shoes! Hot tea will be provided- help us reduce waste by bringing your own travel […]
- On Schedule
Sunset Opera Outdoors
Spend an evening in the cool breeze of summer’s end, and enjoy a laid-back evening of music with award winning singer Sara Emerson. Lay back, relax, and let the music merge with the sounds of nature. Saturday, August 22, 2026, 6:30-8:00pm Meet: Amphitheater in the arboretum Fee: KNC Members $12; Non-Members $15 Please Register > Audience: Families, Couples
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