By Julie Thibodeaux
Local organizations and municipalities are serving up green activities for every demographic. This week, you can get tips from the experts on how to help your family go green or join a bilingual hike in Fort Worth. Also bicycle enthusiasts and bird lovers will find activities geared to their passions. In addition, one of most talked about nature documentaries of the year opens in DFW Friday.
WHALE WATCH
Catch the acclaimed documentary Blackfish when it opens Friday at the Angelika in Dallas. The film, which follows the tragic story of the performing whale Tilikum, will change how you view marine animal entertainment parks. DETAILS.
In addition, Irving-based Radio Free Rescue will feature Blackfish filmmaker Gabriela Cowperthwaite on its online broadcast Friday. DETAILS.
GREEN FAMILY PLANNING
Learn how to create a green household when the city of Irving hosts Raising an Eco-Friendly Family on Saturday, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Irving Central Library. The mini green expo will feature 20 green booths showcasing everything from composting to reptiles. In addition experts will speak on butterflies, gardening and healthy eating.
"We're trying to reach out to a younger audience and tap into those just starting a family," said organizer Fran Witte. "It will be a great opportunity to come in out of the heat and learn about being green."
Free. DETAILS.
BIKE SHOP
REI in Dallas hosts a free workshop on bicycle maintenance at the store on Saturday, Aug. 3, at 2 p.m.
SPANISH TRAILS
¿Quiere ir para una excursión? Whether Spanish is your first or second language, you’ll enjoy this guided hike with a bilingual naturalist at the Fort Worth Nature Center. Join Nature en Español on Saturday at 1 p.m. and experience the great outdoors while learning or practicing the language. $5 with paid admission. DETAILS.
BIRDS 'R' US
Expect to see as many as 30 bird species at Connemara Meadow Preserve on this guided bird walk Sunday from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. in Allen. The hike is led by members of the Prairie and Timbers Audubon Society.
Bring your binoculars or field guide if you have one. DETAILS.