January 2025 Calendar of Events
Download a printable version of the January Calendar of Events
Friday, Jan 3rd, 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM – Game Night at the NEST – Are you ready to learn a new game, or are you interested in sharing a much-beloved board game with others? Drop into the building for an evening of tabletop gaming fun! Borrow a nature-themed game from our game library or bring your favorite game from home. Meet new people and try something new. Role-playing games such as Dungeons and Dragons are welcome too. We only ask that all content and conversations remain family-friendly. Program is suitable for all ages. Reservations are not required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/game-night-at-the-nest-my42jjv9. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Saturday, Jan 4th, 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/january-youth-archery-2025. For more information please contact [email protected]. Rye Preserve – Pavilion
Saturday, Jan 4th, 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, Jan 4th, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM – Starry Night Astronomy – Join us for an astronomical extravaganza! Dozens of local astronomers will be set up in the Robinson Preserve Expansion with telescopes at the ready. Be sure to bring a sense of wonder and exploration as we view the skies through high-powered telescopes. Learn how to identify heavenly bodies, and how you can stargaze at home too. Program suitable for all ages. Program sponsored by Suncoast Stargazers in partnership with Manatee County. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/robinson-astronomy. Robinson Preserve – Expansion Parking Lot
Tuesday, Jan 7th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Homeschool Science Club: Rocks Rock! – This exciting, hands-on program is all about diving into the amazing world of rocks! While exploring the three main types of rocks—igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic—through fun activities, interactive games, and creative crafts. You'll get to see how rocks are formed, what makes each type unique, as they embark on an adventure through the rock cycle! Get ready for a rockin' good time full of discovery, creativity, and lots of fun! 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 this session. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/homeschool-science-club-crack-the-rock-code. For more information please contact [email protected]. Conservatory Park – Large Pavilion #1
Wednesday, Jan 8th, 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, Jan 8th, 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
Thursday, Jan 9th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – TreeTots: Touching Texture – Bumpy, rough, slippery, and smooth; nature is full of textures. Your little one will experiment with touch and learn that wildlife can touch too! Through 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-touching-texture. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Saturday, Jan 11th, 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, Jan 11th, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM & 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM – Hike with a Librarian – Meet us at Neal Preserve! We will discuss a nature-themed nonfiction book with a Manatee County Librarian while enjoying Florida's scenery. After our book discussion, a Manatee County Natural Resources guide will talk about the local fauna and flora as we walk around the preserve at a leisurely pace. “Hike with a Librarian” programs involve easier walks through local preserves. This month's book is Sing Like Fish: How Sound Rules Life Under Water by: Amorina Kingdon. Program is suitable for adults. Reservations are required
Session 1 (10 AM): https://manateelibrary.libcal.com/event/12711619
Session 2 (1 PM) https://manateelibrary.libcal.com/event/12711637.
For more information please contact [email protected]. Neal Preserve
Monday, Jan 13th, 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
Thursday, Jan 16th, 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 is suitable for all ages. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/seashell-shore-walk-january-2025. For more information please contact [email protected]. Coquina Beach South – Longboat Key Bridge
Thursday, Jan 16th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Homeschool Science Club: Tiny Seeds, Big Trees – Seeds can take many different shapes. From small and round, to big and slim, these unique properties help them spread and grow plant populations! Come explore the different ways seeds disperse in the environment, even using animals. 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 this session. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/januaryhssc2025. For more information please contact [email protected]. Rye Preserve – Pavilion
Friday, Jan 17th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Tall Tail Tribe: Birds the Word – Feathered friends have sailed into Neal Preserve. Let’s spot them! Learn all about these amazing flyers, through hands on exploration, song and an easy walk to spot any of our visitors. Program suitable for preschool age children. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/tall-tail-tribe-birds-the-word. For more information please contact [email protected]. Neal Preserve – Pavilion
Friday, Jan 17th, 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 is suitable for all ages. No reservations are required. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve North – Tower
Friday, Jan 17th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Homeschool Science Club: Tiny Seeds, Big Trees – Seeds can take many different shapes. From small and round, to big and slim, these unique properties help them spread and grow plant populations! Come explore the different ways seeds disperse in the environment, even using animals. 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 this session. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/january2025hsscemerson. For more information please contact [email protected]. Emerson Point Preserve – Large Pavilion #1
Saturday, Jan 18th, 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, Jan 18th, 1:30 PM – 4:30 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. Program catch and release only. 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, Jan 23rd, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Green Explorers: Fort Building (Morning) – Back by popular demand! Ever imagined being stuck in the woods, deserted on an island, or just building a fun hangout spot with some friends? Come out to Rye Preserve for a chance to create buildings out of natural objects in the area. Using hands-on discovery, and the participant's own creativity attendees will have the opportunity to play in nature. Green Explorers is a low structure, highly social, and experienced-based activity. Please sign up for only one session. Program suitable for children of all ages, recommended for age 6- 12 years old. Reservations are required.
Morning session (10 AM): https://events.humanitix.com/green-explorers-fort-building-morning
Afternoon Session (1 PM): https://events.humanitix.com/green-explorers-fort-building-afternoon
For more information please contact [email protected]. Rye Preserve – Pavilion
Thursday, Jan 23rd, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM – Nature Nights at The NEST: Sea Slugs – Introducing: Nature Nights at the NEST! 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! Our inaugural program will dive into the world of sea slugs - some of the most colorful, unique creatures of the ocean. Led by Professor Michael Middlebrooks, Ph.D., an invertebrate zoologist at the University of Tampa, this talk will uncover the hidden lives of these tiny vibrant animals. Discover the unique role they play in the marine environment and learn about the research being done at the Secret Slug Lab at the University of Tampa. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to expand your knowledge of the natural world! Program suitable for ages 13 and up. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/nature-nights-at-the-nest. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Friday, Jan 24th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Wildlife Spotlight: Pelicans – Join us at the Robinson Preserve Expansion to observe our migratory and resident pelicans. Discover fascinating facts about pelican behavior and their vital role in the ecosystem. Learn about conservation efforts aimed at these beautiful birds and learn how you can make a positive impact on their future. Program suitable for adults. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/wildlife-spotlight-pelicans-2025. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Expansion Parking Lot
Friday, Jan 24th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Homeschool BioLab: Mineral Mystery – Get ready for an exciting adventure into the world of rocks and minerals! In this hands-on program, you will become "rock detectives" as they explore the properties of rocks using fun and interactive tests like hardness, acid tests, and magnetism. Growing your own crystals and discover how these beautiful gems form over time. 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
Saturday, Jan 25th & Saturday, Feb 1st, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Macroalgae Workshop: Learn, Collect, Create! – Join us for a two-part workshop that combines macroalgae, education, adventure, and art! Macroalgae, also known as seaweed, is a plant-like organism commonly found on our local shorelines. These colorful clumps can be pressed and dried to make beautiful artwork. On Saturday, January 25th, participants will kayak to Flamingo Cay to collect and press macroalgae specimens. The following week, on Saturday, February 1st, participants will discover the fascinating biology of macroalgae and the important role they play in the environment. The course will conclude with an art session where participants will create their own piece of algae artwork and take home their own algae pressing kit. Program suitable for adults. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/83ns9bd. For more information please contact [email protected]. Perico Bayou Kayak Launch
Saturday, Jan 25th, 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, Jan 29th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Nature Art: Painting with the Elements – Neal Preserve is home to natural wonders and sceneries. Join us at the top of the Neal Observation Tower for a guided acrylic painting experience. Enjoy the landscape as we take a leisurely hike to the tower and let the views inspire your creativity into expression on the canvas. Program suitable for ages 12 and over. All materials will be provided for the painting experience. Participants must be able to reach the top of the tall observation tower without assistance. All participants, including parents if applicable, must be registered due to limited space on tower. You must register your birth date on your account to register. 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]. $10 materials fee payable online. Neal Preserve – Pavilion
Friday, Jan 31st, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Nature Tales: Balancing Act – 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 discover the importance of balance in nature. Program suitable for ages 8 and younger. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/nature-tales-balancing-act. For more information please contact [email protected]. Conservatory Park – Playground Pavilion