February 2025 CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Download a printable version of the February Calendar of Events
Saturday, Feb 1st, 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM & 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Youth Archery – Set your sights on the exciting outdoor activity of archery! This program will provide participants with basic archery instruction, familiarization with archery equipment, and instruction in shooting techniques that create successful archers. All equipment will be provided for use. Program is suitable for children ages 6 to 16. Two identical sessions are offered. Please register for only one session each month. Program is suitable for children ages 6 to 16. Program sponsored by the Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission in partnership with Manatee County. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/february-youth-archery-2025. For more information please contact [email protected]. Rye Preserve – Pavilion
Saturday, Feb 1st, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Saturday Mornings at the NEST – Join us at the Mosaic Center for Nature, Exploration, Science, and Technology for a morning of discovery. Explore the canopy boardwalk among the banyans, climb to the top of the crow’s nest, take in breathtaking panoramic views, and make an exciting exit from the building via slide. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations are required. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Wednesday, Feb 5th, 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM – Manatee Audubon Society Birding Tour: Emerson Point – Search the skies for Florida’s fabulous fliers! Our Audubon guide will lead participants on a tour through Emerson Point’s coastal hammock and mangrove habitats. Check out the “locals” as well as the migratory birds that are wintering here. Program suitable for adults. Program sponsored by Manatee County Audubon Society in partnership with Manatee County. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected] or call (941) 592-7622. Emerson Point Preserve – Ranger's Station
Wednesday, Feb 5th, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM – Soar in 4 Family Night – Soar in 4 occurs the first Wednesday of each month in downtown Bradenton. Families visit demonstration tables facilitated by Manatee County teachers, non-profit organizations, and volunteers to learn how to use various materials to support the ‘spotlight book,’ as well as incorporate take-home items to continue to play, create, learn, and explore at home together. These monthly events provide families with the resources and information to become their child’s best ‘first teacher’ at home. All activities are aligned to classroom learning. Program suitable for children and their families. Program sponsored by Soar in 4 in partnership with Manatee County. No reservations required. For more information please visit www.soarin4.org. The Bishop Museum
Friday, Feb 7th, 5:45 PM – 7:15 PM – Finding Romance in Nature – Celebrate Valentine’s Day by taking your mate on a wild date. Come alone or bring someone special (mom, dad, significant other, or friend) to learn about nature’s romantic side! Love is in the air as we hike to enjoy a spectacular sunset from Robinson Preserve’s observation tower and discuss the courting strategies of the preserve’s resident wildlife. Then as the sun goes down, enjoy smores as we learn about what really happens with the birds and the bees. Program suitable for adults. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/finding-romance-in-nature. Robinson Preserve – North Entrance
Friday, Feb 7th, 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM – Game Night – Bring your little one for an enlightening light exploration program. Engage all the senses through movement, lights, and reflections, inspiring nature exploration in the safety of our county site, The Nest. TreeTots is an interactive activity that introduces babies and toddlers to the natural world. Programs suitable for whole family. No reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/game-night-at-the-nest. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – NEST
Saturday, Feb 8th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Saturday Mornings at the NEST – Join us at the Mosaic Center for Nature, Exploration, Science, and Technology for a morning of discovery. Explore the canopy boardwalk among the banyans, climb to the top of the crow’s nest, take in breathtaking panoramic views, and make an exciting exit from the building via slide. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations are required. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Monday, Feb 10th, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM – Sunset Tai Chi at the NEST – Join us for this monthly class at the NEST! At sunset on the second Monday of the month, Dr. Brian Nell, a certified Tai Chi instructor, will lead the group through the gentle movements of Tai Chi. This is a great way to shake off the stressful work week. Improve your balance, loosen your joints, and improve flexibility as you relax and breathe. This class is perfect for beginners and will include an exploration of several different styles of Tai Chi and Qigong. This class is held rain or shine. Program suitable for adults. Program sponsored by Cypress Pillar Healing Arts in partnership with Manatee County. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/robinson-tai-chi. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Tuesday, Feb 11th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM – HSSC: From Tadpole to Lilypad – Hop into the fascinating world of frogs and toads! In this program, you'll explore their habitats, behaviors, and learn about the key differences between these amphibians. Enjoy engaging activities, interactive games, and creative crafts along the way! Program suitable for ages 7 to 13. Homeschool Science Club explores scientific and natural concepts through games, crafts, and activities encouraging students to be active outdoors. Guardians are responsible for identifying the learning maturity of their child. Please note the location of Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/from-tadpole-to-lilypad. For more information please contact [email protected]. Conservatory Park – Large Pavilion #1
Thursday, Feb 13th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Galentine Kayak Adventure – Grab your best friend and paddle your way to adventure on a Galentine's Kayak outing! Explore serene waters, enjoy stunning views, and make unforgettable memories together of Robinson Preserve. Whether you're a seasoned kayaker or a first-timer, this fun-filled day is the perfect way to celebrate friendship and nature! Program suitable for 16 and older who can meet the county eligibility requirements. This is an easy paddle which can be enjoyed by beginning kayakers. All participants must wear a life jacket. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/galentine-kayak-adventure. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Kayak Launch
Friday, Feb 14th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Explore Nature: Tower Talk – Visit the top of the tower at Robinson Preserve to take in the beautiful views of Tampa Bay! Stop by to chat with a naturalist and learn about the plants, animals, and history of the preserve. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations are required. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Tower
Saturday, Feb 15th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Saturday Mornings at the NEST – Join us at the Mosaic Center for Nature, Exploration, Science, and Technology for a morning of discovery. Explore the canopy boardwalk among the banyans, climb to the top of the crow’s nest, take in breathtaking panoramic views, and make an exciting exit from the building via slide. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations are required. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Thursday, Feb 20th, 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM – Seashell Shore Walk – Calling all beachcombers and seashell enthusiasts! Join us for a relaxing walk on the beach to search for seashells and learn to identify them. This program will explore what makes mollusks unique and the amazing adaptations that help them to survive in the wild. Learn about ethical seashell-collecting methods while discovering a new appreciation for our beautiful shorelines. Program suitable for all ages. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/seashell-shore-walk-february-2025. For more information please contact [email protected]. Coquina Beach South – Longboat Key Bridge
Thursday, Feb 20th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – TreeTots: Size Wise – Which is a larger a coconut or a ladybug? A Coconut of course! Let’s explore the world of sizes both big and small found in nature. Using songs, exploration, and activities your tiny family members will discover the amazing natural wonders, big and small, found in your very own backyard. Program suitable for newborns to 2-year-old. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/treetots-size-wise. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – NEST
Thursday, Feb 20th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Homeschool Science Club: Animals with Armor – Animals can have armor of different shapes, whether it's a shell or an exoskeleton. Come test out the hardiness of animal shells by playing games that showcase their unique adaptations and experimenting with their hardiness. Program recommended for students ages 7-13. Homeschool Science Club explores scientific and natural concepts through games, crafts, and activities encouraging students to be active outdoors. Guardians are responsible for identifying the learning maturity of their child. Please note the location of Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/february2025hsscrye. For more information please contact [email protected]. Rye Preserve – Pavilion
Friday, Feb 21st, 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM – Wildlife Spotlight: Trees – Join us for a relaxing stroll through the shaded trails at Emerson Point Preserve as we encounter a diverse array of tree species that have adapted to this unique coastal habitat. Discover the intricate relationships between trees and the surrounding wildlife and learn how to identify majestic oaks, swaying sable palms, resilient mangroves, and more! Program suitable for adults. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/wildlife-spotlight-trees-2025. For more information please contact [email protected]. Emerson Point Preserve – Large Pavilion #1
Friday, Feb 21st, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Tall Tail Tribe: Loops, Arches & Swirls – Have you ever noticed that nature seldom creates a straight line. Rivers wind, plants bush, and seashells curve. Let’s become detectives by seeking out these spiral and arching shapes. We will be looping, arching, and swirling our way through nature and end with a spiral focused craft. Program suitable for ages 5 to 13. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/tall-tail-tribe-loops-arches-and-swirls. For more information please contact [email protected]. Neal Preserve – Pavilion
Friday, Feb 21st, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Homeschool Science Club: Animals with Armor – Animals can have armor of different shapes, whether it's a shell or an exoskeleton. Come test out the hardiness of animal shells by playing games that showcase their unique adaptations and experimenting with their hardiness. Program recommended for students ages 7-13. Homeschool Science Club explores scientific and natural concepts through games, crafts, and activities encouraging students to be active outdoors. Guardians are responsible for identifying the learning maturity of their child. Please note the location of Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/february2025hsscemerson. For more information please contact [email protected]. Emerson Point Preserve – Large Pavilion #1
Saturday, Feb 22nd, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Saturday Mornings at the NEST – Join us at the Mosaic Center for Nature, Exploration, Science, and Technology for a morning of discovery. Explore the canopy boardwalk among the banyans, climb to the top of the crow’s nest, take in breathtaking panoramic views, and make an exciting exit from the building via slide. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations are required. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Saturday, Feb 22nd, 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM – Wade Fishing Clinic – Explore the shores of Emerson Point Preserve as we wade looking for prime fishing. Step into the water equipped with a vest, fishing pole and bait included in the program. An instructor will guide you as to the best areas and rigs to use to land your fish. Program suitable for anglers ages 12 and older. This is an intermediate program. Participants should be able to cast and tie their own knots with minimal assistance. No refunds. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://parks.mymanatee.org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/search.html?primarycode=110008. For more information please contact [email protected]. $15 materials fee payable online.. Emerson Point Preserve – Large Pavilion #1
Thursday, Feb 27th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Green Explorers: All Leaves Great and Small – Delve into the world of our photosynthesizing leaves and explore the shapes and colors of the foliage. Using hands on discovery, and the participants own creativity attendees will have a chance to play in nature. Green Explorers is a low structure, highly social and experienced based activity. Program suitable for all ages recommended for age 6-12 year olds, but all ages welcome Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/green-explorers-all-leaves-great-and-small. For more information please contact [email protected]. Conservatory Park – Pavilion
Thursday, Feb 27th, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM – Nature Night at the NEST: Cuban Ranchos – Join us at The NEST at Robinson Preserve for an exciting new lecture series that features local experts in the fascinating realms of science, nature, and history. Whether you’re a lifelong learner or simply curious, these talks are designed to engage and inspire! This month, Manatee County Natural Resources Education Specialist, Sara Alvarez, will present on the local historical presence of Hispanic culture in Manatee County. Manatee County's coastline was the perfect, fish-rich environment Cuban fishermen needed to settle and create villages, or ranchos. These ranchos were a hub of local commerce, trade, and culture where Cuban fishermen and natives intermingled freely leaving a rich inheritance of mixed culture and race. Discover an integral part of Manatee County's unique history. Program suitable for ages 13 and up. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/nature-nights-at-the-nest-cuban-ranchos. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Friday, Feb 28th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Nature Tales: Wild Wetlands – Does your kiddo enjoy stories and nature? Join us at Conservatory Park in Nature Tales. Meet monthly at Conservatory Park for an interactive story and activities. This month, we will dive into the wild world of wetlands. Program suitable for ages 8 and younger. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/nature-tales-wild-wetlands. For more information please contact [email protected]. Conservatory Park – Pavilion
Friday, Feb 28th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Homeschool BioLab: Bioindicators – Join us for an exciting homeschool BioLab focused on bioindicators! In this hands-on session, students will learn how certain organisms, like frogs, can provide valuable insights into the health of our environment. Through a guided frog dissection, they’ll explore anatomy, ecology, and the vital role these amphibians play in our ecosystems. It’s a perfect blend of science, nature, and discovery! Program is suitable for children ages 10 - 15 Homeschool Bio Lab is an advanced course where we explore higher scientific concepts and the scientific method through dissections, chemistry, and biology experiments. No refunds available. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://parks.mymanatee.org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/search.html?primarycode=110007. For more information please contact [email protected]. Emerson Point Preserve – Emerson Classroom