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X-WR-CALNAME:Hitchcock Center for the Environment
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Hitchcock Center for the Environment
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260416T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260416T111500
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20251111T210742Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260114T191639Z
UID:10005620-1776333600-1776338100@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:Little Bear Nature Walk
DESCRIPTION:Little Bear Nature Walks  \nWith Chrissy Larson\nAges 0-5 (Adult required to attend with child)\n10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.\nWalks are outdoors and take place unless there is extreme weather.\nSee dates and locations here \nLittle Bear Nature Walks are guided\, open-ended walks that allow toddlers\, preschoolers and their caregivers explore nature in an age-appropriate way. While on the walk\, children borrow a backpack filled with simple tools for exploring and are led by a preschool educator. Children investigate plants and animals\, engage with rocks\, soil and water\, and use their imaginations to play with the world. Walks incorporate observation\, inquiry\, and sensory learning. Each has a loose theme and includes a trail-side storytime. Come along with us! \nSee dates and locations here
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/little-bear-nature-walk-3/2026-04-16/
CATEGORIES:Family Programs
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260417T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260417T113000
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20251111T205132Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260224T203608Z
UID:10005601-1776418200-1776425400@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:Nature Discovery: Sky Explorers (Group A)
DESCRIPTION:Nature Discovery Series for 3-5 year olds (Adult/Child) Spring 2026\nSky Explorers: The Great Bird Adventure\nwith Chrissy Larson\nAges 3-5 (Adult required to attend with child)\nAll sessions 9:30-11:30 AM\n \nAlternating Weeks on Fridays (activities are the same for Group A & Group B):\nPlease note: no classes scheduled on 4/24 or 5/22.\nGroup A Sessions: 3/6\, 3/20\, 4/3\, 4/17\, 5/8\, 5/29\nOR\nGroup B Sessions: 3/13\, 3/27\, 4/10\, 5/1\, 5/15\, 6/5\n \nLimited to 12 children. Limit of 2 preK children per adult. Each preK student must register.  Siblings under 3 are free. \nGrab your wings and join the Sky Explorers on a magical adventure! From clever crows to soaring hawks\, each class uncovers the wonders of a different New England bird — how they fly\, hunt\, and play. Children will learn about bird families\, their homes\, and all the amazing ways they move\, eat\, and communicate. This program encourages learning through exploration\, movement\, songs\, stories\, and crafts. An adult caregiver must attend with the child. \nPlease note: Nature Discovery classes typically start indoors with table activities and circle time\, followed by an outdoor adventure that includes hands-on activities and a story. 
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/nature-discovery-sky-explorers-group-a/2026-04-17/
CATEGORIES:Ages 3–5 or Grade Pre-K
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260418T070000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260418T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20260115T205055Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260115T205055Z
UID:10005647-1776495600-1776513600@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:Spring Birding Course
DESCRIPTION:Spring Birding Course\nLed by Scott Surner\nSpace is limited\, and this program sells out fast!\nSliding Scale: $380 / $440 /$500 \nJoin this spring tradition.  Are you wanting to delight in birds more often\, learn what you are seeing and hearing\, seek new species you haven’t seen\,  or just be in community with other birders?   \nLEARN MORE 
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/spring-birding-course-12/2026-04-18/
CATEGORIES:Adult Programs
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/a1737e2d6c6a487cb96e3e5d849425bd-rotated.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260419T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260419T160000
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20260331T173750Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T173750Z
UID:10005755-1776607200-1776614400@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:Spring Forest Bathing
DESCRIPTION:Spring Forest Bathing\nSunday April 19\,\nand Sunday May 17\nfrom 2 – 4 pm \nSlow down\, listen to the birds and discover what the forest might share at the Hitchcock Center on a Forest Bathing walk with certified guide\, Todd Lynch. Forest Bathing allows us to renew and connect to the joyful relationships that await us outside through meditative walking and awakening the senses. Experience the magic of the Hitchcock forest and see what you might discover. \nWhat to Expect:A leisurely walk of about one mile with stops along the way where we will gather and sit. We will focus on our senses to develop an immediate connection with the forest and have time to get to know and explore the beauty of the forest. This is a very relaxed\, slow\, and mindful way of being in nature. The walk lasts about 2 hours and we will finish with an herbal tea made from Todd’s organic herb garden. \nLearn more
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/spring-forest-bathing/2026-04-19/
CATEGORIES:Adult Programs
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IG-POSTS-18.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260420T084500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260420T150000
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20251111T201704Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251111T201704Z
UID:10005492-1776674700-1776697200@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:April Vacation Days
DESCRIPTION:April Vacation Days \nMonday through Friday\, April 20-24\n8:45 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.\nAge Groups: Grades K-5\nFee per child per day: Tier A-$112 | Tier B-$97 | Tier C-$83 \nCome build rafts\, forts\, dams\, animal homes\, and human technology. We’ll combine science\, art\, and technology to create strange and wonderful inventions. We will have free play\, games\, nature crafts\, and lots of time outdoors. Spend your days off from school learning and playing outside at the Hitchcock Center!  \nSign up for as many days as you wish. Five year olds must be in kindergarten in order to participate.  Non-refundable within a week of the program\, all cancellations incur a 10% administrative fee.
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/april-vacation-days/2026-04-20/
CATEGORIES:Ages 5–8/Grades K–3 or Ages 9–11/Grades 4–6
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260421T084500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260421T150000
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20251111T201704Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251111T201704Z
UID:10005493-1776761100-1776783600@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:April Vacation Days
DESCRIPTION:April Vacation Days \nMonday through Friday\, April 20-24\n8:45 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.\nAge Groups: Grades K-5\nFee per child per day: Tier A-$112 | Tier B-$97 | Tier C-$83 \nCome build rafts\, forts\, dams\, animal homes\, and human technology. We’ll combine science\, art\, and technology to create strange and wonderful inventions. We will have free play\, games\, nature crafts\, and lots of time outdoors. Spend your days off from school learning and playing outside at the Hitchcock Center!  \nSign up for as many days as you wish. Five year olds must be in kindergarten in order to participate.  Non-refundable within a week of the program\, all cancellations incur a 10% administrative fee.
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/april-vacation-days/2026-04-21/
CATEGORIES:Ages 5–8/Grades K–3 or Ages 9–11/Grades 4–6
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260422T084500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260422T150000
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20251111T201704Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251111T201704Z
UID:10005494-1776847500-1776870000@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:April Vacation Days
DESCRIPTION:April Vacation Days \nMonday through Friday\, April 20-24\n8:45 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.\nAge Groups: Grades K-5\nFee per child per day: Tier A-$112 | Tier B-$97 | Tier C-$83 \nCome build rafts\, forts\, dams\, animal homes\, and human technology. We’ll combine science\, art\, and technology to create strange and wonderful inventions. We will have free play\, games\, nature crafts\, and lots of time outdoors. Spend your days off from school learning and playing outside at the Hitchcock Center!  \nSign up for as many days as you wish. Five year olds must be in kindergarten in order to participate.  Non-refundable within a week of the program\, all cancellations incur a 10% administrative fee.
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/april-vacation-days/2026-04-22/
CATEGORIES:Ages 5–8/Grades K–3 or Ages 9–11/Grades 4–6
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260423T084500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260423T150000
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20251111T201704Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251111T201704Z
UID:10005495-1776933900-1776956400@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:April Vacation Days
DESCRIPTION:April Vacation Days \nMonday through Friday\, April 20-24\n8:45 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.\nAge Groups: Grades K-5\nFee per child per day: Tier A-$112 | Tier B-$97 | Tier C-$83 \nCome build rafts\, forts\, dams\, animal homes\, and human technology. We’ll combine science\, art\, and technology to create strange and wonderful inventions. We will have free play\, games\, nature crafts\, and lots of time outdoors. Spend your days off from school learning and playing outside at the Hitchcock Center!  \nSign up for as many days as you wish. Five year olds must be in kindergarten in order to participate.  Non-refundable within a week of the program\, all cancellations incur a 10% administrative fee.
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/april-vacation-days/2026-04-23/
CATEGORIES:Ages 5–8/Grades K–3 or Ages 9–11/Grades 4–6
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260424T084500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260424T150000
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20251111T201704Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251111T201704Z
UID:10005496-1777020300-1777042800@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:April Vacation Days
DESCRIPTION:April Vacation Days \nMonday through Friday\, April 20-24\n8:45 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.\nAge Groups: Grades K-5\nFee per child per day: Tier A-$112 | Tier B-$97 | Tier C-$83 \nCome build rafts\, forts\, dams\, animal homes\, and human technology. We’ll combine science\, art\, and technology to create strange and wonderful inventions. We will have free play\, games\, nature crafts\, and lots of time outdoors. Spend your days off from school learning and playing outside at the Hitchcock Center!  \nSign up for as many days as you wish. Five year olds must be in kindergarten in order to participate.  Non-refundable within a week of the program\, all cancellations incur a 10% administrative fee.
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/april-vacation-days/2026-04-24/
CATEGORIES:Ages 5–8/Grades K–3 or Ages 9–11/Grades 4–6
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260425T070000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260425T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20260115T205055Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260115T205055Z
UID:10005648-1777100400-1777118400@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:Spring Birding Course
DESCRIPTION:Spring Birding Course\nLed by Scott Surner\nSpace is limited\, and this program sells out fast!\nSliding Scale: $380 / $440 /$500 \nJoin this spring tradition.  Are you wanting to delight in birds more often\, learn what you are seeing and hearing\, seek new species you haven’t seen\,  or just be in community with other birders?   \nLEARN MORE 
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/spring-birding-course-12/2026-04-25/
CATEGORIES:Adult Programs
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/a1737e2d6c6a487cb96e3e5d849425bd-rotated.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260425T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260425T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20251217T210036Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260217T162924Z
UID:10005636-1777111200-1777118400@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:Raptors\, Rodenticides and Ricardi
DESCRIPTION:Raptors\, Rodenticides and Ricardi: Rescue Area Wildlife from Rodenticides\nSaturday\, April 25th\, 10am – 12pm\nIn person at the Hitchcock Center for the Environment\nor virtually via a Zoom link provided after you register \nRaptors\, foxes\, and other predators balance Massachusetts’ ecosystems. But shocking numbers of these iconic creatures have been sickened and killed after eating poisoned rodents. Mass Audubon’s Rescue Raptors team has partnered with a local group of wildlife advocates\, Save the Raptors Connecticut River and Quabbin Valley\, and Tom Ricardi’s Birds of Prey Rehabilitation Center in Conway\, MA to offer this  free hybrid program to educate the public about this issue. Join us to learn about the harms of rodent poisons\, wildlife-safe rodent control options\, and how to get involved. This event is co-sponsored by Mass Audubon\,  Kestrel Land Trust\, the Hitchcock Center for the Environment\, and the Amherst Conservation Department. \nLEARN MORE
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/raptors-rodenticides-and-ricardi/
CATEGORIES:Adult Programs
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/76c1da064dd7-Rescue-Raptors-Lawn-Sign.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260426T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260426T150000
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20260310T192036Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260310T192311Z
UID:10005747-1777208400-1777215600@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:Spring Ephemerals with arborist Alex Klein
DESCRIPTION:Spring Ephemerals\nSunday\, April 26\, 1pm – 3pm \nwith local herbalist and arborist\, Alex Klein\nSliding scale  $25\, $32 or $40\n \nThe days are warming\, the sap rising in the trees\, but still the canopies are bare. You can feel the Earth on the verge of awakening. This moment is both overture and climax\, the rise of the Spring ephemerals. These plants make their brief appearance aboveground in the window of time between snow melt and canopy leaf-out. Bloodroot and trillium\, trout lilies\, the toothworts and hepaticas arise\, signalling the return of our green world. And it is always a thrilling moment to witness.  \nJoin local herbalist and botanist\, Alex Klein\, for a walk amongst the ephemerals\, where we’ll talk about their botany and identification\, as well as their special place in local ecologies and survival strategies. We’ll consider how these plants help us mark time\, meanwhile keeping our eyes peeled for other signs of Spring awakening throughout the forest.  \nLEARN MORE AND REGISTER
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/spring-ephemerals/
CATEGORIES:Adult Programs
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IG-POSTS-15.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260427T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260427T173000
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20251111T203418Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260226T180957Z
UID:10005546-1777303800-1777311000@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:Junior Nature Play Afterschool
DESCRIPTION:Junior Nature Play Afterschool \nWith: Isaiah Brown\nGrades 1-3\nMondays 3:30-5:30 p.m.\nMarch 23 – June 8 (no program April 20 and May 25)\nLimited to 12 participants \nCome explore the outdoors as we travel in and around the Hitchcock Center’s outdoor spaces! We explore woodlands\, fields\, underbush and streams in this afterschool series for upper-elementary schoolers. Participants engage in a variety of games\, activities\, and discovery-based adventures every week. The hope with this program is to grow and develop young people’s appreciation for the outdoors while exploring their feelings of joy and curiosity in both play and exploration.
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/wild-children-of-the-woods-37/2026-04-27/
CATEGORIES:Ages 5–8 or Grades K–3
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260428T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260428T173000
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20251111T203533Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260224T203137Z
UID:10005556-1777390200-1777397400@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:Girls into the Wild 
DESCRIPTION:Girls into the Wild  \nwith: Katie Koerten\nGrades 4-6\nTuesdays\, 3:30-5:30 p.m.\nMarch 24 – June 9 (no program April 21)\nLimited to 12 participants \nGirls into the Wild continues into 2026 for more romping wildly through the fields and forests of the Hitchcock Center. As always we’ll visit our favorite places to play in the forest\, such as Slug City\, the Forest Garden\, and the Faraway Woods – exploring the seasonal beauty of nature as we go. Play games\, make friends\, and create nature projects in the outdoors! Come build your confidence and show your wild side! Any young people with an experience of gender marginalization are welcome!
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/girls-into-the-wild-133/2026-04-28/
CATEGORIES:Ages 5–8/Grades K–3 or Ages 9–11/Grades 4–6
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260428T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260428T173000
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20251111T203646Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260224T203155Z
UID:10005567-1777390200-1777397400@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:Nature Play Afterschool
DESCRIPTION:Nature Play Afterschool Series \nWith Jeff Mazur\nGrades 1-3\nTuesdays\, 3:30-5:30 p.m.\nMarch 24 – June 9 (no program April 21)\nLimited to 12 participants \nHitchcock’s Nature Play Afterschool Program is designed to let kids be kids. Together we will run\, jump\, climb\, invent\, imagine\, play and be free-range kids all while developing self-confidence and learning valuable social skills. In Winter Nature Play Afterschool we will explore snowy wooded trails and fields\, make snow villages\, and sled down the HCE hill. Our instructors provide a safe setting for children to explore nature and encourage children to stretch their limits.
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/nature-play-afterschool-214/2026-04-28/
CATEGORIES:Ages 5–8 or Grades K–3
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260429T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260429T111500
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20251111T210742Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260114T191639Z
UID:10005621-1777456800-1777461300@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:Little Bear Nature Walk
DESCRIPTION:Little Bear Nature Walks  \nWith Chrissy Larson\nAges 0-5 (Adult required to attend with child)\n10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.\nWalks are outdoors and take place unless there is extreme weather.\nSee dates and locations here \nLittle Bear Nature Walks are guided\, open-ended walks that allow toddlers\, preschoolers and their caregivers explore nature in an age-appropriate way. While on the walk\, children borrow a backpack filled with simple tools for exploring and are led by a preschool educator. Children investigate plants and animals\, engage with rocks\, soil and water\, and use their imaginations to play with the world. Walks incorporate observation\, inquiry\, and sensory learning. Each has a loose theme and includes a trail-side storytime. Come along with us! \nSee dates and locations here
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/little-bear-nature-walk-3/2026-04-29/
CATEGORIES:Family Programs
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260429T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260429T173000
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20251111T204042Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251111T204042Z
UID:10005584-1777467600-1777483800@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:Junior Nature Play Afterschool
DESCRIPTION:Junior Nature Play Afterschool Series \nWith: Isaiah Brown\nGrades K-2\nWednesdays\, 3:30-5:30 p.m.\nMarch 25 – June 10  (Extended days (1PM) on March 25\, April 29\, May 27\, no program April 22)\nFee per Child: Tier A-$434 | Tier B-$378 | Tier C-$321\nLimited to 12 participants \nHitchcock’s Junior Nature Play Afterschool Program is designed to let kids be kids. Together we will run\, jump\, climb\, invent\, imagine\, play and be free-range kids all while developing self-confidence and learning valuable social skills. During Spring Junior Nature Play we will play in the mud and spring rains\, look for bugs\, and enjoy the warming outdoors. Our instructors provide a safe setting for children to explore nature and encourage children to stretch their limits.
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/junior-nature-play-afterschool-24/2026-04-29/
CATEGORIES:Ages 5–8 or Grades K–3
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260429T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260429T173000
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20251111T204705Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251111T204705Z
UID:10005596-1777467600-1777483800@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:Nature Play Afterschool
DESCRIPTION:Nature Play Afterschool Series \nWith Jeff Mazur\nGrades 3-5\nWednesdays\, 3:30-5:30 p.m.\nMarch 25 – June 10  (Extended days (1PM) on March 25\, April 29\, May 27\, no program April 22)\nFee per Child: Tier A-$434 | Tier B-$378 | Tier C-$321\nLimited to 12 participants \nHitchcock’s Nature Play Afterschool Program is designed to let kids be kids. Together we will run\, jump\, climb\, invent\, imagine\, play and be free-range kids all while developing self-confidence and learning valuable social skills. In spring Nature Play Afterschool we will explore\, watch the trees bud\, celebrate the green and blooming springtime\, and play in the mud. Our instructors provide a safe setting for children to explore nature and encourage children to stretch their limits.
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/nature-play-afterschool-216/2026-04-29/
CATEGORIES:Ages 5–8/Grades K–3 or Ages 9–11/Grades 4–6
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260502T063000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260502T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20260115T205055Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260115T205055Z
UID:10005649-1777703400-1777723200@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:Spring Birding Course
DESCRIPTION:Spring Birding Course\nLed by Scott Surner\nSpace is limited\, and this program sells out fast!\nSliding Scale: $380 / $440 /$500 \nJoin this spring tradition.  Are you wanting to delight in birds more often\, learn what you are seeing and hearing\, seek new species you haven’t seen\,  or just be in community with other birders?   \nLEARN MORE 
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/spring-birding-course-12/2026-05-02/
CATEGORIES:Adult Programs
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/a1737e2d6c6a487cb96e3e5d849425bd-rotated.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260502T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260502T111500
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20251111T210742Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260114T191639Z
UID:10005622-1777716000-1777720500@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:Little Bear Nature Walk
DESCRIPTION:Little Bear Nature Walks  \nWith Chrissy Larson\nAges 0-5 (Adult required to attend with child)\n10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.\nWalks are outdoors and take place unless there is extreme weather.\nSee dates and locations here \nLittle Bear Nature Walks are guided\, open-ended walks that allow toddlers\, preschoolers and their caregivers explore nature in an age-appropriate way. While on the walk\, children borrow a backpack filled with simple tools for exploring and are led by a preschool educator. Children investigate plants and animals\, engage with rocks\, soil and water\, and use their imaginations to play with the world. Walks incorporate observation\, inquiry\, and sensory learning. Each has a loose theme and includes a trail-side storytime. Come along with us! \nSee dates and locations here
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/little-bear-nature-walk-3/2026-05-02/
CATEGORIES:Family Programs
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260504T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260504T173000
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20251111T203418Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260226T180957Z
UID:10005547-1777908600-1777915800@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:Junior Nature Play Afterschool
DESCRIPTION:Junior Nature Play Afterschool \nWith: Isaiah Brown\nGrades 1-3\nMondays 3:30-5:30 p.m.\nMarch 23 – June 8 (no program April 20 and May 25)\nLimited to 12 participants \nCome explore the outdoors as we travel in and around the Hitchcock Center’s outdoor spaces! We explore woodlands\, fields\, underbush and streams in this afterschool series for upper-elementary schoolers. Participants engage in a variety of games\, activities\, and discovery-based adventures every week. The hope with this program is to grow and develop young people’s appreciation for the outdoors while exploring their feelings of joy and curiosity in both play and exploration.
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/wild-children-of-the-woods-37/2026-05-04/
CATEGORIES:Ages 5–8 or Grades K–3
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260505T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260505T111500
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20251111T210742Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260114T191639Z
UID:10005623-1777975200-1777979700@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:Little Bear Nature Walk
DESCRIPTION:Little Bear Nature Walks  \nWith Chrissy Larson\nAges 0-5 (Adult required to attend with child)\n10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.\nWalks are outdoors and take place unless there is extreme weather.\nSee dates and locations here \nLittle Bear Nature Walks are guided\, open-ended walks that allow toddlers\, preschoolers and their caregivers explore nature in an age-appropriate way. While on the walk\, children borrow a backpack filled with simple tools for exploring and are led by a preschool educator. Children investigate plants and animals\, engage with rocks\, soil and water\, and use their imaginations to play with the world. Walks incorporate observation\, inquiry\, and sensory learning. Each has a loose theme and includes a trail-side storytime. Come along with us! \nSee dates and locations here
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/little-bear-nature-walk-3/2026-05-05/
CATEGORIES:Family Programs
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260505T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260505T173000
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20251111T203533Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260224T203137Z
UID:10005557-1777995000-1778002200@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:Girls into the Wild 
DESCRIPTION:Girls into the Wild  \nwith: Katie Koerten\nGrades 4-6\nTuesdays\, 3:30-5:30 p.m.\nMarch 24 – June 9 (no program April 21)\nLimited to 12 participants \nGirls into the Wild continues into 2026 for more romping wildly through the fields and forests of the Hitchcock Center. As always we’ll visit our favorite places to play in the forest\, such as Slug City\, the Forest Garden\, and the Faraway Woods – exploring the seasonal beauty of nature as we go. Play games\, make friends\, and create nature projects in the outdoors! Come build your confidence and show your wild side! Any young people with an experience of gender marginalization are welcome!
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/girls-into-the-wild-133/2026-05-05/
CATEGORIES:Ages 5–8/Grades K–3 or Ages 9–11/Grades 4–6
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260505T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260505T173000
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20251111T203646Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260224T203155Z
UID:10005568-1777995000-1778002200@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:Nature Play Afterschool
DESCRIPTION:Nature Play Afterschool Series \nWith Jeff Mazur\nGrades 1-3\nTuesdays\, 3:30-5:30 p.m.\nMarch 24 – June 9 (no program April 21)\nLimited to 12 participants \nHitchcock’s Nature Play Afterschool Program is designed to let kids be kids. Together we will run\, jump\, climb\, invent\, imagine\, play and be free-range kids all while developing self-confidence and learning valuable social skills. In Winter Nature Play Afterschool we will explore snowy wooded trails and fields\, make snow villages\, and sled down the HCE hill. Our instructors provide a safe setting for children to explore nature and encourage children to stretch their limits.
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/nature-play-afterschool-214/2026-05-05/
CATEGORIES:Ages 5–8 or Grades K–3
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260506T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260506T173000
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20251111T203856Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251111T211154Z
UID:10005578-1778081400-1778088600@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:Junior Nature Play Afterschool
DESCRIPTION:Junior Nature Play Afterschool Series \nWith: Isaiah Brown\nGrades K-2\nWednesdays\, 3:30-5:30 p.m.\nMarch 25 – June 10  (Extended days (1PM) on March 25\, April 29\, May 27\, no program April 22)\nFee per Child: Tier A-$434 | Tier B-$378 | Tier C-$321\nLimited to 12 participants \nHitchcock’s Junior Nature Play Afterschool Program is designed to let kids be kids. Together we will run\, jump\, climb\, invent\, imagine\, play and be free-range kids all while developing self-confidence and learning valuable social skills. During Spring Junior Nature Play we will play in the mud and spring rains\, look for bugs\, and enjoy the warming outdoors. Our instructors provide a safe setting for children to explore nature and encourage children to stretch their limits.
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/junior-nature-play-afterschool-23/2026-05-06/
CATEGORIES:Ages 5–8 or Grades K–3
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260506T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260506T173000
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20251111T204547Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251111T211247Z
UID:10005590-1778081400-1778088600@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:Nature Play Afterschool
DESCRIPTION:Nature Play Afterschool Series \nWith Jeff Mazur\nGrades 3-5\nWednesdays\, 3:30-5:30 p.m.\nMarch 25 – June 10  (Extended days (1PM) on March 25\, April 29\, May 27\, no program April 22)\nFee per Child: Tier A-$434 | Tier B-$378 | Tier C-$321\nLimited to 12 participants \nHitchcock’s Nature Play Afterschool Program is designed to let kids be kids. Together we will run\, jump\, climb\, invent\, imagine\, play and be free-range kids all while developing self-confidence and learning valuable social skills. In spring Nature Play Afterschool we will explore\, watch the trees bud\, celebrate the green and blooming springtime\, and play in the mud. Our instructors provide a safe setting for children to explore nature and encourage children to stretch their limits.
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/nature-play-afterschool-215/2026-05-06/
CATEGORIES:Ages 5–8/Grades K–3 or Ages 9–11/Grades 4–6
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260506T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260506T200000
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20260115T205055Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260115T205055Z
UID:10005650-1778090400-1778097600@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:Spring Birding Course
DESCRIPTION:Spring Birding Course\nLed by Scott Surner\nSpace is limited\, and this program sells out fast!\nSliding Scale: $380 / $440 /$500 \nJoin this spring tradition.  Are you wanting to delight in birds more often\, learn what you are seeing and hearing\, seek new species you haven’t seen\,  or just be in community with other birders?   \nLEARN MORE 
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/spring-birding-course-12/2026-05-06/
CATEGORIES:Adult Programs
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/a1737e2d6c6a487cb96e3e5d849425bd-rotated.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260508T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260508T113000
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20251111T205132Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260224T203608Z
UID:10005602-1778232600-1778239800@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:Nature Discovery: Sky Explorers (Group A)
DESCRIPTION:Nature Discovery Series for 3-5 year olds (Adult/Child) Spring 2026\nSky Explorers: The Great Bird Adventure\nwith Chrissy Larson\nAges 3-5 (Adult required to attend with child)\nAll sessions 9:30-11:30 AM\n \nAlternating Weeks on Fridays (activities are the same for Group A & Group B):\nPlease note: no classes scheduled on 4/24 or 5/22.\nGroup A Sessions: 3/6\, 3/20\, 4/3\, 4/17\, 5/8\, 5/29\nOR\nGroup B Sessions: 3/13\, 3/27\, 4/10\, 5/1\, 5/15\, 6/5\n \nLimited to 12 children. Limit of 2 preK children per adult. Each preK student must register.  Siblings under 3 are free. \nGrab your wings and join the Sky Explorers on a magical adventure! From clever crows to soaring hawks\, each class uncovers the wonders of a different New England bird — how they fly\, hunt\, and play. Children will learn about bird families\, their homes\, and all the amazing ways they move\, eat\, and communicate. This program encourages learning through exploration\, movement\, songs\, stories\, and crafts. An adult caregiver must attend with the child. \nPlease note: Nature Discovery classes typically start indoors with table activities and circle time\, followed by an outdoor adventure that includes hands-on activities and a story. 
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/nature-discovery-sky-explorers-group-a/2026-05-08/
CATEGORIES:Ages 3–5 or Grade Pre-K
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260509T063000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260509T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20260115T205055Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260115T205055Z
UID:10005651-1778308200-1778328000@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:Spring Birding Course
DESCRIPTION:Spring Birding Course\nLed by Scott Surner\nSpace is limited\, and this program sells out fast!\nSliding Scale: $380 / $440 /$500 \nJoin this spring tradition.  Are you wanting to delight in birds more often\, learn what you are seeing and hearing\, seek new species you haven’t seen\,  or just be in community with other birders?   \nLEARN MORE 
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/spring-birding-course-12/2026-05-09/
CATEGORIES:Adult Programs
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/a1737e2d6c6a487cb96e3e5d849425bd-rotated.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260509T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260509T150000
DTSTAMP:20260404T054510
CREATED:20260401T185006Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T185006Z
UID:10005757-1778335200-1778338800@www.hitchcockcenter.org
SUMMARY:Yoshi’s Big Swim Storytime with Author and Turtle Meet-and-Greet
DESCRIPTION:Yoshi’s Big Swim Storytime and Turtle Meet-and-Greet with author Mary Wagley Copp\nSaturday\, May 9 at 2pm\nAt Hitchcock Center \nJoin the Hitchcock Center for the Environment for a special storytime with award-winning children’s author Mary Wagley Copp on Saturday\, May 9! The event will focus on Mary’s picture book\, Yoshi’s Big Swim: One Turtle’s Epic Journey Home\, which tells the true story of Yoshi\, a loggerhead sea turtle who was rescued and cared for by scientists before being released back into the ocean. Discover an amazing story celebrating teamwork\, conservation\, and an animal hero who swam more than 22\,000 miles to her true home—the longest journey of any animal ever tracked. \nFollowing a fun and engaging presentation on the book\, attendees will learn more about Yoshi’s real-world counterparts and have the chance to meet some of the Hitchcock Center’s turtles in residence. Books will be available for purchase through Odyssey Bookshop. \nMary Wagley Copp’s debut picture book\, Wherever I Go\, won numerous awards\, including NPR’S 100 Best Children’s Books 2020\, Notable Social Studies Book by the Children’s Book Council in 2021\, and was the 2022 winner of the Massachusetts Book Award. Her nonfiction book\, Yoshi’s Big Swim: One Turtle’s Epic Journey Home was longlisted for the 2024 Mass Book Award and was the winner of the 2024 Nutmeg Award. Mary’s students in her ELL class were the inspiration for her new book\, Sometimes We Pray (2026).  She and her husband live on a farm in Westport\, MA. They have 3 grown children. You can learn more about Mary at marywagleycopp.com. \n​​This Mass Kids Lit Fest event is presented in partnership with the Massachusetts Center for the Book.
URL:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/event/yoshis-big-swim-storytime-with-author-and-turtle-meet-and-greet/
CATEGORIES:Family Programs
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.hitchcockcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Copp-MKLF-2-scaled.png
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR