These event are deemed appropriate for younger children
Close encounters of the Martian kind are coming, beginning with the waning hours of Mon., July 30, leading into the best view of the Red Planet at 2:51 a.m. on July 31. For a few hours, Mars will be only 35.78 million miles from Earth.
That perspective won’t come again, by telescope or the naked eye, until Aug. 28, 2287 – almost 270 years from now. (Stargazers had a slightly closer look at Mars in the late summer of 2003.)
Join us for a Georgia O’Keeffe inspired oil pastel drawing course taught by Adam Werner. This class will feature special instruction on composition and color blending. Seed starting will be taught by Katie Toon and students will get a chance to start their own fall blooming seeds from Woodbine Flower Farm. Specialty Stir Crazy treats will be provided, along with all drawing supplies. Children ages 5-13 will excel at this fun and creative class.
Learn to identify birds living in the area by listening to their vocalizations and looking at photographs. Feel free to bring your personal birding pictures for the class to practice identifying birds. $5 (with paid admission).
Dale Clark, co-founder of the Dallas County Lepidopterist Society, shares his fascination with butterflies, beginning at Texas Discovery Gardens and ending with a caravan to his butterfly farm south of Dallas. This is your chance to explore on a behind-the-scenes tour!
$30.
Learn all about native Texas snakes, tarantulas, and other animals with venomous fangs! Join us for ongoing talks, crafts, and animal encounters.
Grasshoppers are important to the balance of the prairie habitat. Learn about their natural history and search for the many species found across the Refuge. $5 (with paid admission).
THIS EVENT WAS CANCELLED
A free community event featuring nature-themed exhibits, live animals, and more.
Info: Gregory Browder at business@dallascityhall.com or 214-670-1608
A new season of monthly star parties in association with Fort Worth Astronomical Society begins next Saturday. Stargazers, skywatchers, astronomers, kids, grownups, singles, couples, groups, all ages welcome. No dogs, please. Free.
Bring your family to play outside with natural items. This is a time for children and their parents to use their imaginations. Families can build a fort out of bamboo, make a tree cookie bridge, create a bamboo car and more. All play items will be provided. Event recoccurs: July 17 and Aug. 8, 10:30-11:30 a.m. and Aug. 23, 9-10 a.m.
Info: Tiffany Gorrell, tiffany.gorrell@mansfieldtexas.gov