Event list
Arrowhead Lodge Open House
December 3
Learn more about Arrowhead Lodge during an Open House! Arrowhead Lodge will be open to visit, and staff will be on hand to answer questions, on the following dates in 2024:Tuesdays, January 9; February 6; March 5; April 2; May 7; June 4; July 9; August 6; September 3; October 1; November 5; December 3 • 4:00pm-6:00pm. Dates/times subject to chang ...
Create a Holiday Kissing Ball (SOLD OUT)
December 3
This program is full. To be placed on a waitlist, please call the Visitor Center: 315-638-2519.Spend the evening creating a beautiful balsam fir kissing ball, accented with red ribbon and bow. It is sure to be a wonderful addition to your holiday decorating. Please bring your own clippers to cut the boughs.
Registration: $27/Member; $ ...
Lights on the Lake
December 3
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Create a Holiday Kissing Ball (SOLD OUT)
December 4
This program is full. To be placed on a waitlist, please call the Visitor Center: 315-638-2519.Spend the evening creating a beautiful balsam fir kissing ball, accented with red ribbon and bow. It is sure to be a wonderful addition to your holiday decorating. Please bring your own clippers to cut the boughs.
Registration: $27/Member; $3 ...
Lights on the Lake
December 4
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Homeschool Days: Cozy Critters
December 5
Join a Beaver Lake educator once a month for a program designed to supplement science and natural history homeschool education through fun and interactive outdoor experiences. Geared towards children aged 7-12.Every animal has to find a way to cope with the cold weather during the winter. Join a naturalist to learn how different critters sta ...
Lights on the Lake
December 5
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Holiday Nights
December 6
thru December 21
SAVE THE DATES!Fridays and Saturdays in December | 5-8 p.m.
Enjoy a festive and fun after-hours stroll amid sparkling displays of holiday lights that transform the zoo into a winter wonderland. Warm up by the fire pits and enjoy hot chocolate, s’mores, live performances of holiday music, ice carving, roving entertainers and animals o ...
Lights on the Lake
December 6
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Beaver Lake Coffeehouse
December 7
Doors Open: 6:30 PM | Music Begins: 7 PMEnjoy a Saturday evening of great acoustic music, good company, hot coffee, and decadent desserts! Coffee and desserts available for purchase in the lobby.Beaver Lake Nature Center presents The Houston Wynn Duo on December 7. Michael Houston is the widely recognized as the lead vocalist of the award-wi ...
Breakfast with Santa
December 7
Kick off the holiday season with Breakfast at Beaver Lake and a special visitor -Santa! Enjoy a tasty meal of pancakes, sausage, and a beverage. Breakfast: $3 - $7, depending on your appetiteCash and credit cards accepted.
Park admission fee ($5/vehicle) applies. No reservations accepted.
Proceeds benefit Friends of Beaver LakeT ...
Holiday Nights
December 7
thru December 21
SAVE THE DATES!Fridays and Saturdays in December | 5-8 p.m.
Enjoy a festive and fun after-hours stroll amid sparkling displays of holiday lights that transform the zoo into a winter wonderland. Warm up by the fire pits and enjoy hot chocolate, s’mores, live performances of holiday music, ice carving, roving entertainers and animals o ...
Working Women's Walking Group
December 7
thru December 28
Enjoy a walk with friends, new and old! This meet-up group is designed for working women who are unable to take part in weekday programs at Beaver Lake Nature Center. The walking group will meet each Saturday morning, rain or shine, throughout the year. Meet in front of the Visitor Center at 8am.Free with park admission ($5/vehicle).
Lights on the Lake
December 7
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Lights on the Lake
December 8
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Lights on the Lake
December 9
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Lights on the Lake
December 10
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Lights on the Lake
December 11
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Trail Tales
December 12
Join a naturalist for a nature story and song before heading out on a special hike. This program is for children ages 3 , accompanied by an adult.Free with park admission ($5/vehicle). No registration required.
Meet at the Visitor Center
Lights on the Lake
December 12
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
All about Seeds: Collecting, Storing, and Cultivating
December 13
Thinking about starting your own native seed collection? Learn how to collect and store native plant seeds and learn how to successfully germinate them into healthy plants!Registration: $2/Member; $3/Nonmember; park admission fee ($5/vehicle) applies.
REGISTRATION OPENS ON DECEMBER 3
Holiday Nights
December 13
thru December 21
SAVE THE DATES!Fridays and Saturdays in December | 5-8 p.m.
Enjoy a festive and fun after-hours stroll amid sparkling displays of holiday lights that transform the zoo into a winter wonderland. Warm up by the fire pits and enjoy hot chocolate, s’mores, live performances of holiday music, ice carving, roving entertainers and animals o ...
Lights on the Lake
December 13
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Breakfast with Santa
December 14
Kick off the holiday season with Breakfast at Beaver Lake and a special visitor -Santa! Enjoy a tasty meal of pancakes, sausage, and a beverage.Breakfast: $3 - $7, depending on your appetiteCash and credit cards accepted.
Park admission fee ($5/vehicle) applies. No reservations accepted.
Proceeds benefit Friends of Beaver LakeTh ...
Holiday Nights
December 14
thru December 21
SAVE THE DATES!Fridays and Saturdays in December | 5-8 p.m.
Enjoy a festive and fun after-hours stroll amid sparkling displays of holiday lights that transform the zoo into a winter wonderland. Warm up by the fire pits and enjoy hot chocolate, s’mores, live performances of holiday music, ice carving, roving entertainers and animals o ...
Working Women's Walking Group
December 14
thru December 28
Enjoy a walk with friends, new and old! This meet-up group is designed for working women who are unable to take part in weekday programs at Beaver Lake Nature Center. The walking group will meet each Saturday morning, rain or shine, throughout the year. Meet in front of the Visitor Center at 8am.Free with park admission ($5/vehicle).
Lights on the Lake
December 14
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Lights on the Lake
December 15
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Beaver Lake Photography Club
December 16
Do you have a love of photography and Beaver Lake? Consider joining our very own photography club! The club meets monthly on the 4th Monday at 6 PM for educational presentations, photo sharing, and socializing. The club also plans member-only photography field trips throughout the year. All are welcome to join! If you are curious about the c ...
Lights on the Lake
December 16
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Lights on the Lake
December 17
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Lights on the Lake
December 18
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Lights on the Lake
December 19
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Holiday Nights
December 20
thru December 21
SAVE THE DATES!Fridays and Saturdays in December | 5-8 p.m.
Enjoy a festive and fun after-hours stroll amid sparkling displays of holiday lights that transform the zoo into a winter wonderland. Warm up by the fire pits and enjoy hot chocolate, s’mores, live performances of holiday music, ice carving, roving entertainers and animals o ...
Lights on the Lake
December 20
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Holiday Nights
December 21
SAVE THE DATES!Fridays and Saturdays in December | 5-8 p.m.
Enjoy a festive and fun after-hours stroll amid sparkling displays of holiday lights that transform the zoo into a winter wonderland. Warm up by the fire pits and enjoy hot chocolate, s’mores, live performances of holiday music, ice carving, roving entertainers and animals o ...
Working Women's Walking Group
December 21
thru December 28
Enjoy a walk with friends, new and old! This meet-up group is designed for working women who are unable to take part in weekday programs at Beaver Lake Nature Center. The walking group will meet each Saturday morning, rain or shine, throughout the year. Meet in front of the Visitor Center at 8am.Free with park admission ($5/vehicle).
Lights on the Lake
December 21
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Lights on the Lake
December 22
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Lights on the Lake
December 23
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Lights on the Lake
December 24
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Lights on the Lake
December 25
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Lights on the Lake
December 26
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Lights on the Lake
December 27
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Working Women's Walking Group
December 28
Enjoy a walk with friends, new and old! This meet-up group is designed for working women who are unable to take part in weekday programs at Beaver Lake Nature Center. The walking group will meet each Saturday morning, rain or shine, throughout the year. Meet in front of the Visitor Center at 8am.Free with park admission ($5/vehicle).
Lights on the Lake
December 28
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Lights on the Lake
December 29
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Lights on the Lake
December 30
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Lights on the Lake
December 31
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
First Day Hike
January 1
Set your intention to get outdoors more in 2025 by joining us for a First Day Hike guided by a naturalist! Meet at the Visitor Center. All ages welcome!
Free with park admission ($5/vehicle)
Lights on the Lake
January 1
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Trail Tales
January 2
Join a naturalist for a nature story and song before heading out on a special hike. This program is for children ages 3 , accompanied by an adult.Free with park admission ($5/vehicle). No registration required. Meet at the Visitor Center
Lights on the Lake
January 2
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Lights on the Lake
January 3
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Friday Fire Talks
January 3
thru January 31
Stop by the outdoor fire pit to learn something new from a naturalist! Information on tracks we can see in winter, interesting animal pelts, snowflake formation, and more will be covered. Come with questions and spend some time warming up by the fire.Free with park admission ($5/vehicle). No registration required. Meet at the Visitor Center.
Lights on the Lake
January 4
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Lights on the Lake
January 5
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Lights on the Lake
January 6
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Arrowhead Lodge Open House
January 7
Learn more about Arrowhead Lodge during an Open House! Arrowhead Lodge will be open to visit, and staff will be on hand to answer questions, on the following dates in 2025:Tuesdays, January 7; February 4; March 4; April 1; May 6; June 3; July 1; August 5; September 2; October 7; November 4; December 2 • 4:00pm-6:00pm. Dates/times subject to chang ...
Lights on the Lake
January 7
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Sharing Nature with Your Child: Magnificent Moths
January 8
Discover Beaver Lake through the eyes of your preschooler! Each session brings a new opportunity for discovery through nature hikes, games, and crafts. Children ages 3-5 years old, accompanied by an adult. In this session we'll learn all about magnificent moths! We’ll discover what these special insects are doing in the wintertime and when ...
Lights on the Lake
January 8
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Homeschool Days: Tracks & Signs - Critters, Oh My!
January 9
Join a Beaver Lake educator once a month for a program designed to supplement science and natural history homeschool education through fun and interactive outdoor experiences. Geared towards children aged 7-12.Join a naturalist to discover the secrets that freshly fallen snow reveals! First, learn about the various woodland creatures and mat ...
Lights on the Lake
January 9
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Designing Your Own Native Garden
January 10
This 4-part series will be held on Fridays, January 10 & 24, February 7 & 21, from 12 PM to 1 PM.Learn to design landscapes with native and naturalized plants during this 4-part series. The first three classes will focus on principles of native plant design, landscape design basics, and plant selection. During the final workshop, you’ll st ...
Guided Moonlight Hike
January 10
A winter Moon lights the way as you explore the Nature Center’s woodlands and meadows on snowshoes with a naturalist. We will still hike if there is not enough snow for snowshoes. Snowshoes rental available for $5. Please arrive 10 minutes early if you need to rent snowshoes.Registration: $6/Member; $7/Nonmember ; park admission included i ...
Lights on the Lake
January 10
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Friday Fire Talks
January 10
thru January 31
Stop by the outdoor fire pit to learn something new from a naturalist! Information on tracks we can see in winter, interesting animal pelts, snowflake formation, and more will be covered. Come with questions and spend some time warming up by the fire.Free with park admission ($5/vehicle). No registration required. Meet at the Visitor Center.
Beaver Lake Coffeehouse
January 11
Doors Open: 6:30 PM | Music Begins: 7 PMEnjoy a Saturday evening of great acoustic music, good company, hot coffee, and decadent desserts! Beaver Lake Nature Center presents DeeAnn DiMeo on January 11. With a foundation deeply rooted in gospel, blues/jazz, and soul, DeeAnn has taken the music world by storm. Having led various bands as the f ...
Nature Book Club
January 11
If you love reading and nature, we have got the perfect book club for you! We will read a curated selection of nonfiction titles and meet for a friendly discussion on each. January’s discussion will focus on The Comfort of Crows by Margaret Renkl, a recent Reese's Book Club Pick. In February we will read and discuss The Serviceberry by Robin Wall ...
Lights on the Lake
January 11
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Nature Sketching
January 12
Join a naturalist for thoughtful sketching and nature art on the Lakeview trail (0.3 miles). Learn to draw trees, leaves, snow, and animals! Some supplies (sketchbook, pencils, and pens) provided, but feel free to bring your own!Registration: $2/Member; $3/Nonmember, park admission ($5/vehicle) still applies
REGISTRATION OPENS DECEMBER ...
Lights on the Lake
January 12
thru January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Lights on the Lake
January 13
Lights on the Lake is a two mile long drive-thru show featuring hundreds of holiday displays with over 600,000 lights! Sections include a larger-than life Land of Oz, a twinkling fantasy forest, holiday traditions, a fairy tale magic grand finale and more! Over 40,000 vehicles drive through the show each season, making Lights on the Lake one of Cen ...
Songs of Fire and Ice
January 15
Join CNY folk singers and Beaver Lake naturalists for a winter hike and sing-along in the snow followed by a cozy evening in front of the fireplace. Learn to sing traditional songs of the season for both wandering the woods and enjoying the fireside, plus discover all the magic of Beaver Lake in winter by lantern light! After a chilly outdoor adven ...
Trail Tales
January 16
Join a naturalist for a nature story and song before heading out on a special hike. This program is for children ages 3 , accompanied by an adult.Free with park admission ($5/vehicle). No registration required. Meet at the Visitor Center
Friday Fire Talks
January 17
thru January 31
Stop by the outdoor fire pit to learn something new from a naturalist! Information on tracks we can see in winter, interesting animal pelts, snowflake formation, and more will be covered. Come with questions and spend some time warming up by the fire.Free with park admission ($5/vehicle). No registration required. Meet at the Visitor Center.
The Great "Gingerbread" House Competition
January 18
Get your construction skills on at Beaver Lake! You will be supplied with milk cartons and cardboard for your base, and lots of wildlife-friendly decorations like seeds, acorns, fruit, and more! Participants will get 1 hour to construct their houses, then judging will take place. There are two judging categories: Apprentice (ages 12 and under) and ...
Sharing Nature with Your Child: Super Seeds
January 22
Discover Beaver Lake through the eyes of your preschooler! Each session brings a new opportunity for discovery through nature hikes, games, and crafts. Children ages 3-5 years old, accompanied by an adult. During this session, we'll learn all about how super seeds are! We’ll explore the life cycle of a plant and the importance of seeds and ...
Friday Fire Talks
January 24
thru January 31
Stop by the outdoor fire pit to learn something new from a naturalist! Information on tracks we can see in winter, interesting animal pelts, snowflake formation, and more will be covered. Come with questions and spend some time warming up by the fire.Free with park admission ($5/vehicle). No registration required. Meet at the Visitor Center.
Writing the Winter World
January 26
What do you see, hear, and imagine as you walk the trails at Beaver Lake? Practice putting your wonder at the natural world into words on the page. Bring pen, paper, and memories of your time on the trails and learn to write about them.Registration: $2/Member; $3/Nonmember; park admission fee ($5/vehicle) applies.
REGISTRATION OPENS ON ...
Beaver Lake Photography Club
January 27
Do you have a love of photography and Beaver Lake? Consider joining our very own photography club! The club meets monthly on the 4th Monday at 6 PM for educational presentations, photo sharing, and socializing. The club also plans member-only photography field trips throughout the year. All are welcome to join! If you are curious about the c ...
Winter Garden Tour
January 27
Tour the visitor center gardens with us this winter! Discover what (or who) is hiding away under the snow, how wildlife uses the gardens in the winter, and how to enjoy your garden even when it is frosty and cold outside.Registration: $2/Member; $3/Nonmember; park admission ($5/vehicle) still applies
Winter Tree ID
January 27
The leaves on the trees may be gone, but did you know that you can still identify a tree by examining bare branches? We’ll start indoors looking at twig samples and a short lesson on winter twig ID, then embark on a short hike to examine a few trees outdoors.Registration: $2/Member; $3/Nonmember, park admission ($5/vehicle) still applies
Trail Tales
January 30
Join a naturalist for a nature story and song before heading out on a special hike. This program is for children ages 3 , accompanied by an adult.Free with park admission ($5/vehicle). No registration required. Meet at the Visitor Center
Friday Fire Talks
January 31
Stop by the outdoor fire pit to learn something new from a naturalist! Information on tracks we can see in winter, interesting animal pelts, snowflake formation, and more will be covered. Come with questions and spend some time warming up by the fire.Free with park admission ($5/vehicle). No registration required. Meet at the Visitor Center.
Bird Collisions in the Anthropocene: Art Workshop
February 1
Drop in anytime during this workshop to be part of a large-scale civic engagement art project comprised of over 10,000 bird replicas. Participants will be led through the crafting process to create a replica of a bird that died in 2023 from window collisions along Chicago’s lakefront using donated fabric scraps that would otherwise end up in the ...
Arrowhead Lodge Open House
February 4
Learn more about Arrowhead Lodge during an Open House! Arrowhead Lodge will be open to visit, and staff will be on hand to answer questions, on the following dates in 2025:Tuesdays, January 7; February 4; March 4; April 1; May 6; June 3; July 1; August 5; September 2; October 7; November 4; December 2 • 4:00pm-6:00pm. Dates/times subject to chang ...
Sharing Nature with Your Child: Winter Critters
February 5
Discover Beaver Lake through the eyes of your preschooler! Each session brings a new opportunity for discovery through nature hikes, games, and crafts. Children ages 3-5 years old, accompanied by an adult. Let’s learn about animals in the winter! We’ll discover which animals are active all winter and which ones are not (and how they surv ...
Homeschool Days: Trotting through the Trees
February 6
Join a Beaver Lake educator once a month for a program designed to supplement science and natural history homeschool education through fun and interactive outdoor experiences. Geared towards children aged 7-12.Join a naturalist for a hike under the tall canopies around Beaver Lake! Come and learn about the important role that trees play in t ...
Owl Night Long
February 7
Snowshoe or hike into Beaver Lake’s forest at dusk in search of the elusive owl. On our way we’ll learn about the different types of owls in our area and what makes them such fascinating raptors. Registration: $2/Member; $3/Nonmember, park admission ($5/vehicle) still applies
REGISTRATION OPENS DECEMBER 3
Tea Time!
February 7
It’s a chilly winter, so warm up at Beaver Lake! Learn about edible plants along the Hemlock Hollow and Bog Trails (1.0 miles), then enjoy a nice cup of tea!Free with park admission ($5/vehicle).
Meet at the Visitor Center
REGISTRATION OPENS DECEMBER 3
Beaver Lake Coffeehouse
February 8
Doors Open: 6:30 PM | Music Begins: 7 PMEnjoy a Saturday evening of great acoustic music, good company, hot coffee, and decadent desserts! Beaver Lake Nature Center presents Loren Barrigar with LJ Barrigar on February 8. The father and son duo of Loren & LJ Barrigar bring their fingerstyle guitar wizardry and Nashville picking together for a ...
Block Printing
February 8
Learn to make prints using simple supplies! Create a cute design, then transfer it onto paper. All supplies are provided; just bring a good attitude and a creative mind! This program is geared toward children ages 6-12 years old.Registration: $6/child-member; $7/child-nonmemberPark admission fee ($5/vehicle) still applies
REGISTRATION ...
Nature Book Club
February 8
If you love reading and nature, we have got the perfect book club for you! We will read a curated selection of nonfiction titles and meet for a friendly discussion on each. In February we will read and discuss The Serviceberry by Robin Wall Kimmerer, renowned author and faculty member at SUNY ESF.Free with park admission ($5/vehicle). Book c ...
Trail Tales
February 13
Join a naturalist for a nature story and song before heading out on a special hike. This program is for children ages 3 , accompanied by an adult.Free with park admission ($5/vehicle). No registration required. Meet at the Visitor Center
Nature's Valentines
February 14
Learn to make prints using simple supplies! Create a cute design, then transfer it onto paper. All supplies are provided; just bring a good attitude and a creative mind! This program is geared toward children ages 6-12 years old.Registration: $6/child-member; $7/child-nonmemberPark admission fee ($5/vehicle) still applies
REGISTRATION ...
Winter Nature Camp
February 17
thru February 21
Join us for a week of fun in the snow with Beaver Lake’s naturalists! Your 1st through 4th grader will learn how to snowshoe, create incredible snow sculptures, and more during this Winter Nature Camp. Don’t worry, even if there isn’t much snow, we have lots of back up plans for exploring nature!Registration: $30/Day-Member; $35/Day-No ...
Winter Nature Camp
February 18
thru February 21
Join us for a week of fun in the snow with Beaver Lake’s naturalists! Your 1st through 4th grader will learn how to snowshoe, create incredible snow sculptures, and more during this Winter Nature Camp. Don’t worry, even if there isn’t much snow, we have lots of back up plans for exploring nature!Registration: $30/Day-Member; $35/Day-No ...
Winter Nature Camp
February 19
thru February 21
Join us for a week of fun in the snow with Beaver Lake’s naturalists! Your 1st through 4th grader will learn how to snowshoe, create incredible snow sculptures, and more during this Winter Nature Camp. Don’t worry, even if there isn’t much snow, we have lots of back up plans for exploring nature!Registration: $30/Day-Member; $35/Day-No ...