By Grace Hallowell, Marketing Coordinator
The sunny days of spring are on their way to the heart of Aggieland, and as the weather warms up, so do our Parks and Recreation programs and events at the Gary Halter Nature Center and beautiful Lick Creek Park.
March is the perfect time to venture outdoors with friends and family while staying active, and it all starts this weekend.
Saturday, March 1
Sharpen your birding skills with the Rio Brazos Audubon Society at the free Birding 101 class on Saturday at 8:30 a.m. at the Gary Halter Nature Center. Learn to identify birds by sight and sound, use field guides and binoculars, and explore the Brazos Valley’s native and migrating species.
The class hikes through Lick Creek Park’s trails, so dress appropriately and wear closed-toed shoes. The program is made possible by the decade-long commitment of dedicated Audubon Society volunteers.
Unwind, connect, and rejuvenate with like-minded families for Heartfulness Family Yoga on Saturday at 10 a.m. at the Gary Halter Nature Center. The free event is designed for all skill levels, from seasoned yogis to beginners.
Yoga mats are provided while supplies last, but you can bring your own – and remember to bring a water bottle! Don’t miss this chance to boost your family’s well-being and experience the benefits of yoga together.
Sunday, March 2
Recharge and improve your physical and mental health with Holistic Health Day on Sunday at the Gary Halter Nature Center. Four unique sessions are scheduled:
- 10-10:45 a.m.: Sheng Zhen Qi Gong with Lisette Templin
- 11-11:45 a.m.: Meditation/Dharma with Lance McDowell & Brett Warnecke
- 12-12:45 p.m.: Yoga with Bre Brittain
- 1-1:45 p.m.: Sound Bowl Healing with Latasha Stancil
Experience the transformative power of holistic practices with a rejuvenating day of self-care and wellness in serene surroundings. Please bring your yoga mat or meditation pillow; all skill levels are welcome.
Saturday, March 15
Anyone 6 years and older can participate in the Learn to Fish class on Saturday, March 15, from 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. at the Gary Halter Nature Center. The free class introduces participants to fishing with fun, hands-on activities.
Topics include regulations and ethics, safety, equipment, fishing knots, information about freshwater fish, casting, and a chance to catch and release a fish at Central Park if the weather is nice. For those over 17, a fishing license or day pass is required to fish, and an adult must always accompany the kids.
Expect to be outside about half the time and dress accordingly. Educational materials, equipment, and bait are provided, and participants are encouraged to bring water, snacks, and lunch.
To register, email names, youth ages, and a phone number to plewis@cstx.gov. Your registration must be confirmed.
Friday, March 21
You don’t have to travel far to create fun memories with your friends and family.
Choose your adventure or join us for favorites such as a hot dog dinner, storytelling, s’mores, and a night hike at Lick Creek Park in the Dark on Friday, March 21. We’ll help you learn camping basics and discover the nocturnal creatures that call Lick Creek Park home.
If you can’t make it to this campout, another one is set for April 4.
Here’s the schedule:
- 6 p.m.: Check-in, campsite set-up
- 7 p.m.: Hot dog dinner, storytelling
- 8 p.m.: Learn camping basics, special presentations
- 8:30 p.m.: Night hike
- 9 p.m.: S’mores
- 10 p.m.: Quiet hours begin
- 7 a.m. Break camp
Campers must bring a tent, supplies, snacks, and drinks. Electricity is not provided, so pack flashlights, tent lanterns, sleeping bags, insect repellents, and folding chairs. Limited spots are available, and registration ends March 19. The cost is $8 per person. An adult must accompany children. Sorry, pets aren’t allowed.
Saturday, March 29
Celebrate the monarch butterfly’s life cycle with Monarch March on Saturday, March 29, at 9 a.m. Festivities include a walk-through of Lick Creek Park’s Monarch Waystation, educational booths, tips on creating a home waystation or butterfly garden, native plant sales by the Post Oak Chapter of the Native Plant Society of Texas, family games, art, and more.
For more Parks and Recreation events and activities, visit cstx.gov/ParksGuide.
About the Blogger
Grace Hallowell is in her third year as marketing coordinator for the city’s Public Communications department. A native of Erie, Pa., Grace has a bachelor’s degree in advertising communications.
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