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SUMMARY:Wild Mushroom Festival Turns Deans Mill Farm Into a Fungi Playground
DESCRIPTION:Wild Mushroom Festival Turns Deans Mill Farm Into a Fungi Playground Oct. 4\, when one of Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center’s signature fall events brings together mushroom hunters\, chefs\, growers\, artists\, and curious beginners for four hours devoted to the surprisingly enormous world of fungi. \nAnd you don’t need to know a chanterelle from a chicken of the woods to go. \nThe festival combines two experiences that don’t usually occupy the same afternoon: part food festival\, with approximately 10 local restaurants preparing mushroom dishes for sampling\, and part outdoor classroom\, where experienced foragers and mushroom experts teach visitors what they’re actually seeing when they encounter fungi in the woods. \nThen things get considerably more eclectic. \nThere’s live music\, a mushroom marketplace\, mushroom-themed crafts\, growers selling fungi\, mushroom ice cream\, and even tattoo artists offering mushroom designs. \nIn other words\, DPNC has gone pretty far down the mushroom rabbit hole. \nFirst\, Eat the Mushrooms\nFood has long been one of the festival’s biggest attractions. \nApproximately 10 local restaurants and chefs are expected to participate this year\, preparing mushroom-centered samples rather than simply setting up conventional food-vendor booths. \nAdmission includes food tickets: adults receive 12\, while children receive six. Additional food tickets can be purchased during the festival for $1 each. \nThe exact 2026 restaurant roster and dishes have not yet been publicly posted\, so there’s some discovery involved when you arrive. Previous versions have used the tasting component to show just how differently chefs can approach fungi rather than treating mushrooms as one ingredient with one flavor. \nAnd there’s one particularly unusual festival favorite returning to the conversation: candy cap mushroom ice cream. Candy caps are prized for an aroma often compared to maple syrup\, making them one of the stranger examples of just how far mushrooms can travel from the stereotypical sauté pan. The Wild Mushroom Festival also promotes mushroom beer among its specialty offerings. \nThen Learn How to Find Them\nEating mushrooms is only half the idea. \nDPNC is using the festival to introduce visitors to the much larger ecological world behind them. \nNaturalists\, foragers and mushroom experts will lead woodland walks and educational talks covering mushroom hunting\, identification\, cultivation and cooking. An identification table gives visitors an opportunity to examine specimens and learn the characteristics experts use to distinguish different fungi. \nThat’s an important distinction from simply heading into the woods with a phone app and deciding something looks edible. \nWild mushroom identification can be complicated\, and some toxic species resemble edible ones closely enough that beginners should never rely on photographs or a single identifying characteristic before eating something they’ve collected. \nThe festival provides a much better starting point: experienced people\, actual specimens and an opportunity to ask questions. \nDPNC has watched public interest in exactly this kind of knowledge grow dramatically. In its reporting on the festival\, the Nature Center noted that interest in foraging surged during the pandemic\, helped in part by people sharing their finds and woodland excursions on social media. \nThe Festival Got So Popular It Had to Move\nThe Wild Mushroom Festival has been around much longer than the current location. \nFor years it was held at DPNC itself\, where it developed into one of the organization’s signature events. Eventually\, success created a practical problem: the festival outgrew the Nature Center’s parking capacity. \nThat led to its move to Deans Mill Farm on Pequot Trail in Stonington. \nIt’s a particularly good fit. \nThe farm’s approximately 70 acres provide room for parking\, fields for vendors and restaurant tents\, and trails that can actually be used for the mushroom walks. Previous festivals at the farm have also included a beer garden as a place to settle in between programs. \nThat makes this less like a lecture series with some food attached and more like a small fall festival spread across a farm. \nThe Mushroom Marketplace Goes Beyond Something to Eat\nNot every mushroom at the festival is destined for a plate. \nThe expanded Mushroom Marketplace brings together artists\, mycologists\, mushroom growers\, foragers\, crafters and chefs selling their work and products. \nThat might mean cultivated mushrooms and fungi-related products at one table and mushroom-inspired artwork at another. \nThen there are the tattoos. \nLocal tattoo artists are scheduled for a pop-up offering mushroom-themed designs during the festival. \nSo someone could theoretically spend Sunday learning how to identify mushrooms\, eat several varieties\, buy mushrooms to take home and leave with one permanently attached to an arm. \nThat’s commitment. \nLive music runs alongside the marketplace and food sampling\, while crafts give children something hands-on to do between the walks and other programs. \nFour Hours May Go Faster Than You Think\nThe festival opens promptly at noon and runs until 4 p.m. \nUnlike a conventional fair where people can simply arrive whenever they want\, advance registration is required\, and DPNC is warning that the festival is expected to sell out early. \nAn adult ticket costs $36 and includes 12 food tickets\, admission to the Mushroom Marketplace\, educational talks and walks\, and crafts. Children’s admission is $18 and includes six food tickets along with the same access to the marketplace\, educational programming and crafts. \nThere’s also a larger purpose behind all that fungi. \nProceeds support the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center\, the Mystic-based nonprofit that works in environmental education\, conservation and wildlife rehabilitation while stewarding more than 350 acres of protected land. \nThe Wild Mushroom Festival manages to compress a surprising amount into four hours. \nYou can come because you want to eat mushrooms. \nYou can come because you want to learn how to find them. \nOr you can come knowing absolutely nothing about fungi and discover that the strange things appearing on fallen logs and forest floors every autumn occupy a world considerably larger — and considerably weirder — than the produce aisle suggests. \nMore information is available at the Event Website link below. To purchase tickets\, click the Event Ticketing link below. \nDetails\nEvent: Wild Mushroom Festival\nDate: Sunday\, Oct. 4\, 2026\nTime: Noon–4 p.m.\nLocation: Deans Mill Farm\nAddress: 1189 Pequot Trail\, Stonington\, CT 06378\nOrganizer: Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center\nAdult Admission: $36\, including 12 food tickets\nChild Admission: $18\, including six food tickets\nAdditional Food Tickets: $1 each at the festival\nFood: Mushroom-inspired samples from approximately 10 local restaurants and chefs; the individual 2026 restaurant roster has not yet been published\nPrograms: Guided mushroom walks\, talks with naturalists and foragers\, mushroom identification\, cultivation and cooking education\nMarketplace: Artists\, mycologists\, foragers\, crafters\, growers and chefs\nAlso Planned: Live music\, mushroom-themed crafts and tattoo-artist pop-ups\nRegistration: Advance ticket purchase required; organizers expect the event to sell out\nPhone: 860-536-1216\nContact: alissa@dpnc.org \n  \n  \nFeatured image is an artistic representation inspired by the event and may not depict the actual people\, location\, or activities shown.
URL:https://thectbeacon.com/event/wild-mushroom-festival-turns-deans-mill-farm-into-a-fungi-playground/
LOCATION:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center\, 109 Pequotsepos Road\, Mystic\, 06355\, United States
CATEGORIES:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thectbeacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Wild-Mushroom-Festival-Turns-Deans-Mill-Farm-Into-a-Fungi-Playground.jpg
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260912T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260912T123000
DTSTAMP:20260910T030843Z
CREATED:20260910T030843Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260910T030843Z
UID:10007535-1789207200-1789216200@thectbeacon.com
SUMMARY:Fall Foraging with Amelia South at DPNC
DESCRIPTION:Fall Foraging with Amelia South at DPNC takes participants off the grocery-store produce aisle and onto the trails of Mystic on Saturday\, September 12\, for a hands-on introduction to identifying and sustainably harvesting wild foods and useful plants. \nThe adult program runs from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and is led by Amelia South\, a Connecticut clinical herbalist\, longtime forager\, and founder of Black Sun Farm in Killingly. \nRather than presenting foraging as simply finding something in the woods that happens to be edible\, South teaches identification\, responsible harvesting\, and the larger skill of learning to recognize the plants growing around us. \nIt’s a skill she’s been developing for about two decades. \nAmelia South Started Foraging in 2006\nSouth describes herself as a clinical herbalist\, foraging instructor\, author\, and founder of Black Sun Farm and the No-BS Herbalist. \nHer relationship with wild food began in 2006\, when she started intentionally foraging. Her interest expanded into herbalism and natural health several years later\, and she began growing food\, preparing herbal products and studying how plants traditionally have been used as both food and medicine. \nToday\, she teaches classes and guided foraging walks around Connecticut. \nSouth received her Clinical Herbalist certification through Heart of Herbs Herbal School in July 2026 and has also studied health sciences. She says she has spent nearly 20 years learning about plants\, food and the human body. \nThat experience is important for a subject where confidence can become dangerous very quickly. \nKnowing that a plant is “probably” something isn’t good enough if you’re planning to eat it. \nForaging Begins With Identification\nOne of the first lessons of responsible foraging is also the least exciting: \nIf you aren’t certain what something is\, don’t eat it. \nPlants and mushrooms can have look-alikes\, and visual similarities that appear insignificant to a beginner can separate an edible species from one that can cause illness. \nSouth’s other foraging programs have specifically addressed how to distinguish edible and medicinal species from potential look-alikes\, moving from instruction into the field so participants can practice identification with actual plants. \nSaturday’s DPNC program puts that lesson directly on the landscape. \nInstead of looking at photographs or specimens on a table\, participants will walk the Nature Center trails and learn to recognize herbs and other edible plants where they actually grow. \nThat means paying attention to more than a flower. \nLeaves\, stems\, bark\, growth patterns\, habitat\, scent\, texture and season can all provide clues. \nOver time\, the goal is to stop seeing an anonymous wall of green. \nFall Changes What’s Available\nA September foraging walk is a very different experience from one held in April or June. \nPlants change through the seasons. \nSpring often emphasizes young greens\, shoots and flowers. By late summer and early fall\, the landscape begins shifting toward fruits\, berries\, nuts\, seeds and roots\, while some familiar plants become easier to identify because they’ve reached a mature stage. \nExactly what participants find Saturday will depend on what is growing along the trails that morning. \nThat’s part of foraging. \nThere is no supermarket inventory sheet guaranteeing that a particular wild food will be waiting on a particular shelf. \nWeather\, habitat\, recent rainfall\, wildlife and the timing of an individual plant all affect what appears. \nA good foraging walk therefore teaches something more transferable than where to find one specific plant. \nIt teaches how to look. \nSustainable Harvesting Means Knowing What to Leave Behind\nFinding an edible plant doesn’t automatically mean it should be picked. \nDPNC specifically describes Saturday’s program as teaching participants how to sustainably harvest wild herbs and other edibles. \nThat’s an important part of modern foraging. \nA responsible harvester considers how abundant a plant is\, which portion is being removed\, whether harvesting will kill it\, how much should be left for reproduction and what role the plant plays in the surrounding ecosystem. \nRoots present an obvious example. Harvesting a few leaves may allow a perennial plant to continue growing. Digging up its root can remove the entire plant. \nSeeds\, berries and nuts are also food for wildlife and part of the plant’s reproductive cycle. \nRare or threatened species shouldn’t become dinner simply because someone has learned to identify them. \nSouth has spoken publicly about approaching wildcrafting with the needs of the plant in mind rather than simply harvesting whenever something can be sold or used. \nThe lesson is straightforward: knowing what you can harvest is only half the skill. \nYou also need to know whether you should. \nSouth Has Taught People to Find Food in Their Own Backyards\nOne of the appealing things about foraging is that it doesn’t necessarily require traveling deep into wilderness. \nAt a June 2026 Wild Ones program in Fairfield County\, South spent nearly two hours walking a four-acre property and identifying edible and traditionally medicinal plants growing there. \nParticipants eventually used some of what they encountered in hands-on demonstrations\, including preparing eggs with sorrel and chickweed and making syrup using shagbark hickory bark. \nThe experience illustrated something beginners frequently discover. \nOnce someone teaches you what to recognize\, plants that previously registered as “weeds” or background vegetation begin acquiring names. \nThe landscape hasn’t changed. \nYour ability to read it has. \nA Nature Center Is a Natural Classroom\nDenison Pequotsepos Nature Center provides an unusually good setting for that kind of lesson. \nDPNC’s protected lands contain forests\, wetlands\, meadows\, ponds and streams\, giving visitors access to multiple southeastern Connecticut habitats within the same trail system. \nMore than 10 miles of trails connect the Nature Center and surrounding protected lands\, including Coogan Farm. \nIndividual routes around the Nature Center pass through markedly different environments. The Meadow Loop includes boardwalks and wetland habitat\, while other trails enter forest\, follow Pequotsepos Brook or pass old granite quarry areas and glacial terrain. \nThat habitat diversity matters to a forager because plants aren’t randomly distributed. \nSome prefer wet ground. \nOthers thrive along disturbed edges. \nSome need open sunlight. \nOthers belong beneath a forest canopy. \nLearning where a plant is likely to grow can eventually become as useful as memorizing what its leaves look like. \nDPNC Has Been Teaching People to Read This Landscape for Decades\nThe foraging walk also fits the broader purpose of Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center. \nThe Mystic nonprofit operates a nature sanctuary\, natural history museum\, wildlife rehabilitation program and environmental education center. \nIts grounds support native wildlife and a substantial bird population\, while the Nature Center cares for non-releasable birds of prey and other animal ambassadors used in education programs. \nDPNC’s programming ranges from birding and wildlife programs to pond exploration\, gardening\, mushroom events\, forest bathing and guided hikes. \nForaging adds another way of understanding the same environment. \nA botanist might look at a plant and think about taxonomy. \nA wildlife biologist might consider what eats it. \nA gardener might think about whether it belongs in a landscape. \nA forager asks another question: \nWhat relationship have people had with this plant? \nForaging Is Part Natural History\, Part Human History\nLong before supermarkets\, refrigeration and year-round produce shipments\, knowing the local landscape wasn’t a hobby. \nIt was knowledge connected directly to food and survival. \nPeople learned when particular plants emerged\, which parts were edible\, when nuts ripened\, where berries grew and which plants could be preserved for later use. \nIndigenous communities developed sophisticated plant knowledge over generations. European settlers arrived with their own traditions and encountered an unfamiliar North American landscape. Later immigrant communities brought additional food and herbal traditions. \nModern foraging draws from many of those histories\, although responsible instruction also requires recognizing that traditional use isn’t the same thing as scientific proof of a medical benefit. \nThat’s especially important when the conversation moves from food into herbal medicine. \nA plant can have a long history of traditional use without being a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. \nFor Saturday’s hike\, the practical starting point is much simpler. \nLearn what’s growing here. \nLearn how to identify it. \nLearn what people have done with it. \nAnd learn how to leave enough behind. \nDon’t Expect a Walk Through a Manicured Garden\nThis is a trail-based outdoor program. \nDPNC’s trails move through natural terrain that can include roots\, rocks\, damp areas and uneven surfaces. September can also mean mosquitoes and ticks remain active. \nClosed-toe walking or hiking shoes make sense\, along with clothing appropriate for the weather. Long pants can provide some protection from ticks and vegetation\, and participants may want water and insect repellent. \nBecause the purpose is identifying plants in their natural habitats\, expect periods of stopping\, looking closely and moving off the pace of an ordinary recreational hike. \nThis isn’t about covering miles. \nA productive foraging walk can spend 15 minutes moving a very short distance because once you begin looking closely\, there can be an extraordinary amount happening in a few yards of trail. \nThe Goal Isn’t to Become a Forager in 2½ Hours\nNobody should leave a single class believing they can safely identify every edible plant in Connecticut. \nThat’s not what makes an introductory foraging walk valuable. \nThe useful first step is learning how identification works. \nLook closely. \nNotice habitat. \nLearn the characteristics that distinguish one species from another. \nUnderstand that common names aren’t enough. \nKnow when a look-alike exists. \nDon’t consume something because an app identified it from a photograph. \nAnd understand that harvesting carries responsibilities beyond whether a plant is technically edible. \nSouth has been intentionally foraging since 2006. \nSaturday morning offers 2½ hours with someone who has spent two decades noticing things most of us walk past. \nAfterward\, the same Mystic trail may look considerably less anonymous. \nDetails\nEvent: Fall Foraging with Amelia South at Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center\nDate: Saturday\, September 12\, 2026\nTime: 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m.\nInstructor: Amelia South\nProgram: Guided fall foraging and plant-identification hike\nAges: Adults\nVenue: Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center\nAddress: 109 Pequotsepos Road\, Mystic\, CT 06355\nDPNC Members: $29.75\nNonmembers: $35\nRegistration: Advance registration is required\nSetting: Outdoors on the Nature Center trails\nWhat to Expect: Identification of wild herbs and other edible plants with instruction in sustainable harvesting\nRecommended: Weather-appropriate clothing\, sturdy walking shoes\, water and insect/tick protection\nPhone: 860-536-1216 \nMore information is available at the Event Website link below. \nTo register\, click the Event Registration link below. \n  \n  \nFeatured image is an artistic representation inspired by the event and may not depict the actual people\, location\, or activities shown.
URL:https://thectbeacon.com/event/fall-foraging-with-amelia-south-at-dpnc/
LOCATION:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center\, 109 Pequotsepos Road\, Mystic\, 06355\, United States
CATEGORIES:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thectbeacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Fall-Foraging-with-Amelia-South-at-DPNC.jpg
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260904T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260904T210000
DTSTAMP:20260911T012618Z
CREATED:20260831T181048Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260911T012618Z
UID:10007289-1788548400-1788555600@thectbeacon.com
SUMMARY:Moth Ball at Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
DESCRIPTION:Moth Ball at Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center turns the lights on after dark Friday\, September 4\, for a hands-on look at the surprisingly diverse world of moths living around Mystic. \nFrom 7:15 to 9:15 p.m.\, DPNC will set up illuminated sheets and wait to see what flies in. Participants won’t simply watch. They’ll help count and catalog the moths that arrive\, take a nighttime nature walk and learn more about insects that spend much of their lives unnoticed by us. \nAnd that’s part of the fun. \nNobody knows exactly who is coming to the Moth Ball. \nButterflies Get the Day Shift\nButterflies have a considerable public-relations advantage over moths. \nThey’re out when we are. \nWe see monarchs crossing a meadow\, swallowtails visiting flowers and little skippers bouncing around the garden. We photograph them\, plant gardens for them and generally agree that butterflies are among the insects we’re happy to have around. \nThen the sun goes down. \nThat’s when an enormous part of the Lepidoptera world takes over. \nMoths and butterflies belong to the same insect order\, Lepidoptera\, but moths account for the overwhelming majority of its species. And the little brown moth bouncing against the porch light represents only a tiny fraction of what they can look like. \nConnecticut is home to moths that can be green\, pink\, orange\, yellow or patterned with elaborate eyespots. Some are barely noticed. Others can be startlingly large. \nMoth Ball is designed to find out which ones are flying around the Nature Center on one September night. \nTurn On a Light and See Who Arrives\nThe setup is wonderfully simple. \nDPNC will use custom light sheets to observe moths after dark. \nA bright light illuminates a pale sheet\, creating a large surface where visiting insects can land and be examined without disappearing against leaves\, bark and the darkness surrounding them. \nThen you wait. \nMoths and other nocturnal insects begin arriving\, turning a blank piece of fabric into a temporary field station. \nParticipants can get close enough to examine patterns\, body shapes\, antennae and other characteristics that would be nearly impossible to study while an insect is flying through the woods. \nDPNC will use the evening as an actual hands-on survey\, with visitors helping count and catalog what appears. \nThe night’s species list won’t be known until the moths write it themselves. \nWhy Do Moths Fly Toward Lights?\nEveryone has seen it happen. \nTurn on a porch light and sooner or later something starts circling it. \nThe familiar explanation is that moths are simply “attracted to light\,” but scientists have found that the behavior is more complicated. \nNocturnal insects evolved in a world where the brightest objects in the night sky were extremely far away. Researchers have investigated how moths and other insects use natural light for orientation and why nearby artificial lights disrupt that behavior. \nRecent research suggests artificial light can interfere with an insect’s ability to maintain its normal orientation to the sky\, causing it to repeatedly turn around or circle the source rather than deliberately flying straight toward it. \nFor naturalists\, that confusion has an unintended benefit. \nLight becomes a remarkably effective tool for seeing animals that would otherwise remain hidden in the dark. \nThe Giants of Connecticut’s Moth World\nThere’s no guarantee that one of Connecticut’s spectacular giant silk moths will appear at Moth Ball. \nBut they’re out there. \nThe state is home to species including the luna\, cecropia\, polyphemus and promethea moths. \nThe cecropia is the largest native moth in North America\, with a wingspan that can reach roughly six inches. \nPolyphemus moths carry enormous eyespots on their hindwings. Their name comes from Polyphemus\, the one-eyed Cyclops of Greek mythology. \nThen there’s the luna. \nFew insects look quite like it. \nA luna moth has large pale-green wings\, prominent eyespots and sweeping tails extending from its hindwings. An adult can span several inches from wingtip to wingtip. \nThose long tails aren’t simply ornamental. \nResearch indicates that they can help defend luna moths against one of their major nighttime predators: bats. The twisting tails can interfere with a bat’s echolocation attack\, potentially drawing the strike away from the moth’s body. \nIt’s a remarkable defense system happening in darkness where most people never see it. \nThe Moth That Doesn’t Stop for Dinner\nThe adult luna moth has another unusual characteristic. \nIt doesn’t eat. \nOnce the moth emerges from its cocoon\, its digestive system is essentially finished with its job. The adult has no functional mouthparts for feeding. \nAll of the energy it will have as an adult was stored while it was a caterpillar. \nThat doesn’t leave much time. \nThe adult stage generally lasts only about a week. Its purpose is to find a mate and reproduce before that stored energy is exhausted. \nThink about that the next time you see a luna moth resting beneath a light. \nYou’re looking at a very brief chapter of a much longer life cycle. \nMoths Have a Night Job\nMoths aren’t simply nighttime butterflies. \nThey also perform important work in the ecosystem. \nMany species visit flowers and move pollen between plants after daytime pollinators have stopped working. Their caterpillars consume vegetation and\, in turn\, become an important food source for other animals. \nBirds depend heavily on caterpillars when feeding their young. \nAdult moths become prey for bats\, birds\, spiders and other animals. \nThat puts moths in the middle of a much larger food web. \nTake away the moths and you haven’t simply lost some insects around the porch light. You’ve removed food from animals higher up the chain and pollinators from plants that depend on nighttime visitors. \nA Nature Center After Dark\nThe setting makes Moth Ball particularly interesting. \nDenison Pequotsepos Nature Center protects a landscape of forest\, meadow and wetland habitat in Mystic. Together with its other properties\, DPNC provides more than 10 miles of trails and hundreds of acres of protected habitat. \nMost visitors experience those woods during daylight. \nMoth Ball offers a different shift. \nThe program includes a nature walk after dark\, along with a short presentation and craft. But the light sheets provide the evening’s experiment. \nSet them up. \nTurn on the lights. \nAnd watch the surrounding habitat begin revealing animals that were there all along. \nWho Will Come to the Moth Ball?\nThat’s the question DPNC can’t answer in advance. \nMaybe the sheets will fill with small moths that take some work to identify. \nMaybe something colorful arrives. \nMaybe a sphinx moth makes an appearance. \nMaybe one of the giant silk moths turns up. \nOr maybe the most interesting insect of the night is a species nobody walking in expected to see. \nThat’s different from visiting a zoo or nature exhibit where the animals are already waiting. \nAt Moth Ball\, nothing has been placed on display. \nThe insects are wild. \nThe woods are open. \nAnd the guest list is entirely up to them. \nEvent Details\nEvent: Moth Ball\nDate: Friday\, September 4\, 2026\nTime: 7:15–9:15 p.m.\nLocation: Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center\nAddress: 109 Pequotsepos Road\, Mystic\, CT 06355\nDPNC Members: $12.75\nNonmembers: $15\nActivities: Moth observation\, counting and cataloging\, presentation\, nature walk and craft\nMoth Observation: Custom illuminated light sheets\nRegistration: Preregistration required\nEvent Categories: Families\, Walk \nMoth Ball at Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center takes visitors into the nighttime world of Mystic’s moths with illuminated observation sheets\, a nature walk and a hands-on effort to count and catalog whatever species arrive. \nMore information is available at the Event Website link below. \nTo purchase tickets\, click the Event Ticketing link below. \n  \nFeatured image is an artistic representation inspired by the event and may not depict the actual people\, location\, or activities shown. \n 
URL:https://thectbeacon.com/event/moth-ball-at-denison-pequotsepos-nature-center/
LOCATION:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center\, 109 Pequotsepos Road\, Mystic\, 06355\, United States
CATEGORIES:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thectbeacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Moth-Ball-at-Denison-Pequotsepos-Nature-Center.jpg
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260823T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260823T140000
DTSTAMP:20260828T174018Z
CREATED:20260820T234531Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260828T174018Z
UID:10007251-1787486400-1787493600@thectbeacon.com
SUMMARY:Family Crabbing with the DNPC
DESCRIPTION:Family Crabbing with Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center invites families to spend Sunday afternoon along the Mystic River learning how to find\, identify and catch some of the crustaceans living beneath the water. \nThe two-hour program takes place Sunday\, August 23\, from noon to 2 p.m. Rather than meeting at DPNC’s main Nature Center\, participants gather at the Peace Sanctuary entrance at 233 River Road in Mystic before heading to DPNC’s crabbing location. \nNature Center educators begin with an introduction to basic crabbing techniques and crab identification. Then the equipment comes out. \nDPNC supplies the nets\, bait and lines\, and families put what they’ve learned to work along the Mystic River. \nLearning What’s Beneath the Mystic River\nCrabbing is one of those shoreline activities that can look deceptively simple: bait on a line\, lower it into the water and wait. \nBut Sunday’s program turns that familiar summer pastime into a hands-on nature lesson. \nParticipants will learn the basics of safely catching crabs and how to examine identifying characteristics that distinguish one kind from another. \nThat’s consistent with DPNC’s larger approach to environmental education. Instead of teaching nature exclusively inside a classroom\, its educators regularly take families into the forests\, wetlands\, meadows and waterways of southeastern Connecticut to encounter wildlife in its actual habitat. \nHere\, the Mystic River becomes the classroom. \nWhat Might You Find?\nThe Mystic River is a tidal estuary\, where salt water moving inland from Fishers Island Sound mixes with freshwater entering the watershed. \nThat creates habitat for a wide range of marine and estuarine life. \nThe exact catch on Sunday can’t be predicted\, of course. That’s part of the fun. Participants will use what they’ve learned during the identification lesson to figure out what’s actually coming up in their nets. \nDPNC’s program is focused on observation and education rather than guaranteeing any particular species or catch. \nOne lowered line may produce nothing. \nThe next might suddenly start moving. \nThe Peace Sanctuary Has Quite a Story of Its Own\nThe meeting location deserves some attention\, because the Peace Sanctuary is one of DPNC’s lesser-known properties and has an extraordinary history. \nThe approximately 30-acre preserve rises above the Mystic River across from Coogan Farm. A roughly mile-long trail winds through woodland containing mature oaks\, American beech and tulip trees before reaching high ledges with sweeping views across the river. \nMore than 150 years ago\, much of the hillside was open pasture surrounding a grove of oak trees known as Fish’s Grove. \nIt eventually became something considerably more unusual. \nThe Universal Peace Union\, which grew out of opposition to the Civil War\, began holding outdoor peace gatherings there. The property became known as the Peace Grove\, complete with a large open pavilion called the Peace Temple. \nSpeakers at the gatherings advocated nonviolence and took positions on some of the major social questions of the 19th century\, including women’s suffrage\, racial prejudice\, lynching and the Ku Klux Klan. \nThe meetings became enormous. \nAt their height\, DPNC’s historical records indicate that nearly 10\,000 people could arrive for the annual gatherings\, along with hundreds of teams of horses. \nFrom Peace Meetings to Camp Mystic\nThe property’s next chapter came in 1914 when naturalist and explorer Mary L. Jobe purchased the Peace Grove and transformed it into a summer camp for girls. \nBeginning in 1916\, Camp Mystic welcomed dozens of girls each summer. \nCampers swam and boated on the Mystic River\, rode horses along River Road and explored the surrounding woods at a time when the road itself was still dirt. \nJobe later married famed naturalist\, taxidermist and African explorer Carl Akeley. Following his death during an African expedition\, Mary continued traveling and exploring on her own. \nCamp Mystic eventually closed after the 1930 season. \nToday\, visitors to the Peace Sanctuary can still encounter traces of that earlier period\, including old stone foundations\, retaining walls and stone-lined cisterns hidden within the landscape. \nPreserving the Sanctuary\nMary Jobe Akeley died in Mystic in 1966 and entrusted the River Road property as a nature preserve. \nToday\, the Peace Sanctuary is owned by the Mary Jobe Akeley Trust and managed by Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center\, which has stewarded the property for more than three decades. \nUnlike DPNC’s regular public trail system\, the Peace Sanctuary is a private nature preserve with restricted access. Visits generally take place through guided DPNC programs or by special arrangement. \nThat makes Family Crabbing an opportunity to experience a corner of Mystic that many people drive past without realizing what’s there. \nAnd this time\, the destination isn’t just the wooded hillside. \nIt’s the river below it. \nDress for the Water\, Not the Sidewalk\nThere’s one piece of preparation DPNC emphasizes particularly strongly: \nYour feet are going to be near wet\, slippery rocks. Dress accordingly. \nParticipants should wear shoes that can get wet while still providing good traction. \nFlip-flops and Crocs are specifically prohibited. \nA pair of secure water shoes or other footwear suitable for wet and uneven surfaces is the better choice. \nDPNC provides the crabbing equipment\, including bait\, nets and lines\, so families don’t need to arrive with their own collection of gear. \nAdvance registration\, however\, is required. \nA Different Kind of Sunday on the River\nFamily Crabbing fits nicely into what DPNC does particularly well. \nChildren aren’t simply being told that tidal rivers contain complex ecosystems. They’re crouching beside the Mystic River with a line in their hands\, watching the water and waiting to see what’s interested in the bait. \nWhen something finally appears\, the next question isn’t just\, “Did we catch one?” \nIt’s “What did we catch?” \nAnd that’s where a simple afternoon of crabbing quietly becomes a science lesson. \nEvent Details\nEvent: Family Crabbing\nDate: Sunday\, August 23\, 2026\nTime: Noon–2 p.m.\nOrganizer: Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center\nMeeting Location: Peace Sanctuary Entrance\nAddress: 233 River Road\, Mystic\, CT 06355\nMembers: $17\nNon-Members: $20\nRegistration: Advance registration required\nEquipment: Nets\, bait and crabbing lines provided\nFootwear: Shoes that can get wet and provide traction are required; no flip-flops or Crocs \nParticipants will receive an introduction to crabbing techniques and crab identification before heading to the Mystic River to put their new skills to work. \nMore information is available at the Event Website link below. \nTo register\, click the Event Ticketing link below. \n  \nFeatured image is an artistic representation inspired by the event and may not depict the actual people\, location\, or activities shown.
URL:https://thectbeacon.com/event/family-crabbing-with-denison-pequotsepos-nature-center/
LOCATION:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center\, 109 Pequotsepos Road\, Mystic\, 06355\, United States
CATEGORIES:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thectbeacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Family-Crabbing-with-Denison-Pequotsepos-Nature-Center.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260822T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260822T200000
DTSTAMP:20260705T025153Z
CREATED:20260608T020727Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260705T025153Z
UID:10005349-1787418000-1787428800@thectbeacon.com
SUMMARY:Nature Night Out at the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
DESCRIPTION:Nature Night Out gives kids ages 6 to 12 an evening of outdoor exploration\, hands-on activities\, and nature-themed fun at the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center. While parents enjoy a few hours to themselves\, participants spend the evening discovering the natural world through games\, wildlife encounters\, and guided adventures led by nature center staff. \nEach session combines education and entertainment\, allowing children to explore trails\, meet live animals\, and participate in activities designed to spark curiosity about nature. As the sun begins to set\, participants head out on an evening hike before gathering around the fire for pizza and s’mores\, creating a memorable outdoor experience with new friends. \nNature Night Out is perfect for children who love animals\, exploring outdoors\, and getting a little muddy while learning. With a mix of recreation\, discovery\, and campfire fun\, the program offers a unique way for young adventurers to spend a summer evening. \n2026 Session Schedule\nJune 20 | 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.\nRegistration \nJuly 18 | 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.\nRegistration \nAugust 22 | 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.\nRegistration \n\nAdditional Details\n\nLocation: Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center (DPNC)\nAges: 6-12 years\nTime: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.\nIncludes outdoor games and hands-on nature activities\nLive animal encounters\nEvening hike\nPizza and s’mores around the campfire\nParticipants should dress for the weather\nBring a flashlight\nPre-registration is required\nMember Rate: $34 per child\nNon-Member Rate: $40 per child\nMeets at DPNC for all sessions
URL:https://thectbeacon.com/event/nature-night-out-at-the-denison-pequotsepos-nature-center-2/2026-08-22/
LOCATION:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center\, 109 Pequotsepos Road\, Mystic\, 06355\, United States
CATEGORIES:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thectbeacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Nature-Night-Out-at-the-Denison-Pequotsepos-Nature-Center-5pm-to-8pm.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260815T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260815T120000
DTSTAMP:20260608T023021Z
CREATED:20260608T023021Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260608T023021Z
UID:10005351-1786788000-1786795200@thectbeacon.com
SUMMARY:Discovery Station at the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
DESCRIPTION:Discovery Station at the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center is a monthly family program designed to help children and caregivers explore the natural world together. Through hands-on activities\, live animal encounters\, and self-guided exploration\, participants can discover nature at their own pace while learning about the plants\, animals\, and habitats that make the region unique. \nEach session features themed activity stations where families can investigate natural artifacts\, meet animal ambassadors\, and participate in interactive learning experiences. A hands-on craft adds a creative element to the program\, while a self-guided hike and scavenger hunt encourage participants to continue their discoveries outdoors. \nThe program is ideal for families with children of all ages who enjoy exploring nature together. Its flexible format allows visitors to move through activities at their own pace\, making it an accessible and welcoming experience for a wide range of ages and interests. \n2026 Session Schedule\nJuly 18 | 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.\nRegistration \nAugust 15 | 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.\nRegistration \n\nAdditional Details\n\nLocation: Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center (DPNC)\nMeets on the third Saturday of each month\nTime: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.\nChildren must attend with a caregiver\nOpen to kids of all ages\nInclusive\, family-friendly format\nThemed activity stations\nLive animal encounters\nNatural artifacts to examine\nHands-on craft activity\nSelf-guided hike and scavenger hunt\nFamilies may move through activities at their own pace\nMeets at DPNC\nPre-registration is recommended through the links above
URL:https://thectbeacon.com/event/discovery-station-at-the-denison-pequotsepos-nature-center/2026-08-15/
LOCATION:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center\, 109 Pequotsepos Road\, Mystic\, 06355\, United States
CATEGORIES:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thectbeacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Discovery-Station-at-the-Denison-Pequotsepos-Nature-Center-10am-12-pm.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260814T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260814T193000
DTSTAMP:20260812T232301Z
CREATED:20260812T232301Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260812T232301Z
UID:10007163-1786728600-1786735800@thectbeacon.com
SUMMARY:Amphibians of CT at the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
DESCRIPTION:Amphibians of CT at the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center takes families into the woods and wetlands of Mystic on Friday\, August 14\, for an evening search for frogs\, toads and salamanders. The free 90-minute program begins at 5:30 p.m. and combines a guided outdoor exploration with an up-close introduction to some of the Nature Center’s resident amphibians. \nInstead of learning about these animals entirely inside a classroom\, participants will head to the vernal pools and surrounding woods to look for amphibians where they actually live. Nature Center educators will help visitors identify what they find and explain the adaptations that allow amphibians to live between aquatic and terrestrial environments. \nIt’s exactly the sort of hands-on program the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center has been developing for generations. DPNC’s environmental education programs use the woodlands\, wetlands and meadows surrounding the center as outdoor classrooms\, while live animals and natural history exhibits give visitors a closer look at species they might otherwise walk past without noticing. (Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center) \nSearching for Connecticut’s Amphibians\nConnecticut’s forests\, ponds and wetlands provide habitat for a surprisingly varied population of amphibians. \nDuring the program\, participants will search for frogs\, toads and salamanders\, paying particular attention to the Nature Center’s vernal pools. \nVernal pools are temporary woodland wetlands that fill seasonally and provide critical breeding habitat for amphibians. Because they typically don’t support fish populations\, their waters can provide safer places for eggs and developing young. \nThe Nature Center’s trail system passes through wetland and woodland habitats well suited to this kind of field exploration. More than 10 miles of trails now connect DPNC and nearby Coogan Farm\, including boardwalks and paths around ponds\, streams and wetlands. \nMeet the Resident Amphibians\nThe evening isn’t entirely a search through the woods. \nParticipants will also meet some of DPNC’s resident amphibians and get a closer look at the physical adaptations that help them survive. \nThat provides a useful comparison with whatever turns up outside. DPNC maintains natural history exhibits featuring live reptiles and amphibians\, along with non-releasable birds of prey and other educational animals used to help visitors understand the wildlife of southern New England. \nFor children especially\, seeing an amphibian at close range before or after searching for one in the woods can turn an abstract lesson about habitats into something much more tangible. \nGood for Curious Kids and Adults\nAlthough the program should have plenty of appeal for children\, it isn’t simply a kids’ activity. \nDPNC’s public programs are designed for different ages and regularly include guided hikes\, bird walks\, vernal-pool explorations and other field programs focused on southeastern Connecticut’s natural world. \nParents should expect an active outdoor program rather than a seated presentation. Participants will be exploring wooded and wet areas\, so closed-toe shoes that can handle dirt or damp ground are a sensible choice. \nBug spray may also be useful on an August evening. \nA Nature Center with Deep Mystic Roots\nThe Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center’s history stretches back 80 years. \nIts origins can be traced to land left to the Denison Society by Ann Borodell Denison Gates in 1930. Gates had been a founding member of the Mystic Garden Club and had a particular love of birds. In the 1940s\, members of the Garden Club and Denison Society began working to create a wildlife sanctuary on the property in her memory. \nThe Pequot-sepos Wildlife Sanctuary was incorporated in 1946\, with trails\, a pond and educational programming gradually developed on the property. The current Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center organization was established in 1972 after the original sanctuary organization was dissolved and the community rallied to continue environmental education and conservation on the land. \nToday\, DPNC’s main campus and Coogan Farm form part of a roughly 400-acre greenway\, while more than 10 miles of trails give visitors access to forests\, fields\, wetlands and other habitats. The organization also provides environmental education and wildlife care while protecting important local ecosystems and watersheds. \nThat makes an amphibian hunt here a little different from simply walking down to a random pond. Participants are exploring land that has been deliberately protected and used for nature education for generations. \nWhat Families Should Expect\nThe program lasts approximately 90 minutes and includes both outdoor exploration and an opportunity to see resident amphibians. \nBecause participants will be searching natural habitats\, there’s no guarantee which wild animals will make an appearance. That’s part of the experience. Finding wildlife means slowing down\, looking beneath the obvious places and learning to notice the small signs of life around a pond or forest floor. \nThe program is free thanks to grant support. \nEvent Details\nDate\nFriday\, August 14\, 2026 \nTime\n5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. \nLocation\nDenison Pequotsepos Nature Center \nAddress\n109 Pequotsepos Road\nMystic\, CT 06355 \nAdmission\nFree. Grant supported. \nProgram\nGuided exploration for Connecticut frogs\, toads and salamanders\, along with an introduction to DPNC’s resident amphibians. \nRecommended For\nFamilies\, children interested in animals and nature\, and adults interested in Connecticut wildlife. \nWhat to Wear\nComfortable closed-toe shoes suitable for walking through wooded areas and around wetlands. Consider insect repellent for the evening portion of the program. \nImportant Notes\nThis is an outdoor wildlife program\, and sightings of particular wild amphibian species cannot be guaranteed. \nMore Information\nFor more information\, visit the event website using the Event Website link below. \nFor ticket purchases\, click on the Ticketing link below. \n\n 
URL:https://thectbeacon.com/event/amphibians-of-ct-at-the-denison-pequotsepos-nature-center/
LOCATION:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center\, 109 Pequotsepos Road\, Mystic\, 06355\, United States
CATEGORIES:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thectbeacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Amphibians-of-CT-at-the-Denison-Pequotsepos-Nature-Center-Friday-August-14-at-530pm.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260812T000000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260812T000000
DTSTAMP:20260813T010606Z
CREATED:20260813T010606Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T010606Z
UID:10007165-1786492800-1786492800@thectbeacon.com
SUMMARY:Mushroom Foraging Workshop with The Mushroom Hunting Foundation at DPNC
DESCRIPTION:Mushroom Foraging Workshop with The Mushroom Hunting Foundation at DPNC takes participants from forest trail to frying pan during a four-hour hands-on class in Mystic on Saturday\, August 15. The workshop begins with an introduction to wild mushrooms before heading into the woods with experienced foragers to search for edible species\, then returns for a cooking demonstration showing how a successful morning’s discoveries can become dinner. \nThis isn’t simply a guided hike where somebody points at mushrooms along the trail. The $125 half-day workshop is designed to teach the process behind responsible mushroom foraging: how to look\, what physical characteristics matter when identifying fungi\, which mushrooms beginning foragers should avoid\, and how edible wild mushrooms can be prepared in the kitchen. \nThe instructors come from The Mushroom Hunting Foundation\, a Southern New England organization devoted to teaching safe mushroom and wild-plant foraging. Its programs combine classroom instruction\, guided hunts and cooking demonstrations\, an approach that fits naturally with the forests and trails surrounding the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center. (Mushroom Hunting) \nFrom Trail to Table\nThe workshop begins indoors with a brief slideshow preparing participants for what they’ll encounter outside. \nThat’s more important than it might sound. Mushroom identification depends on details that are easy for an inexperienced person to overlook. Color and overall shape are only part of the picture. \nOne example is what’s underneath the cap. Mushrooms that look remarkably similar from above can have gills\, pores or tiny tooth-like structures underneath\, placing them in entirely different groups. Learning to slow down and examine those characteristics is part of becoming a safer forager. \nAfter the introduction\, the class heads onto DPNC’s trails. \nRather than simply collecting whatever happens to appear\, instructors will show participants how experienced mushroom hunters scan the woods\, recognize promising habitats and examine specimens before attempting an identification. \nWhat turns up will depend on what the forest produces that week. That’s the unpredictable part of foraging: there isn’t a produce aisle waiting at the end of the trail. \nMeet The Mushroom Hunting Foundation\nThe Mushroom Hunting Foundation grew from the work of Rhode Island natives Ryan Bouchard and Emily Schmidt\, who began mushroom hunting after taking a class with the Audubon Society of Rhode Island. \nWhat started as a hobby became a much deeper study of mycology\, wild foods and the ecological roles played by fungi. The pair eventually began sharing what they had learned through presentations\, guided foraging walks and culinary demonstrations. (Mushroom Hunting) \nToday\, the Mushroom Hunting Foundation offers educational programs built around safely enjoying wild mushrooms and edible plants. Classes range from introductory programs to more intensive field experiences and private instruction. \nThe emphasis on safe identification matters. \nSome mushroom groups contain both edible and dangerous species\, and look-alikes can make casual identification risky. The Foundation encourages beginners to concentrate first on species with characteristics that make reliable identification easier rather than immediately attempting difficult mushrooms with potentially dangerous doubles. (Mushroom Hunting) \nWhat Could You Find?\nAugust can produce an interesting assortment of mushrooms in Southern New England\, but there’s no predetermined shopping list. \nWeather\, rainfall\, temperature and the condition of the forest all affect what’s fruiting on any particular day. \nThe Mushroom Hunting Foundation has documented regional species ranging from edible Green-Quilted Russulas to the unusual Apricot Jelly mushroom\, a soft\, gelatinous edible fungus that can absorb the flavors it’s cooked with. \nFinding something\, however\, isn’t the same as deciding it’s dinner. \nOne of the most useful lessons in a workshop like this is learning when not to eat a mushroom. Identification should be based on multiple characteristics and reliable knowledge rather than comparing something found in the woods with a photograph. \nInto the Kitchen\nThe final portion of the workshop moves from identification to preparation. \nParticipants will watch a cooking demonstration focused on turning safely identified wild mushrooms into food. The Mushroom Hunting Foundation incorporates culinary instruction into its programs because understanding a mushroom doesn’t end when it’s identified. Different species can have very different flavors and textures and may require different preparation techniques. \nThat’s what gives this particular workshop its “trail to table” character. \nYou begin by learning what you’re looking for\, search for it in the forest and finish by seeing what can happen in the kitchen. \nA Good Place to Learn Foraging\nThe Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center provides a fitting outdoor classroom. \nThe Nature Center is located at 109 Pequotsepos Road in Mystic and maintains a network of trails through southeastern Connecticut woodland and wetland habitats. DPNC regularly uses those natural areas for environmental education\, guided walks and foraging programs. \nMushroom education isn’t new here\, either. DPNC has previously hosted Mushroom Hunting Foundation programs\, including a Mushroom Foraging Intensive in August 2025. \nThe Nature Center itself is open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.\, so the workshop begins shortly after the facility opens. \nWhat to Wear and Bring\nParticipants should dress for several hours split between indoor instruction and hiking through the woods. \nWear sturdy\, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes and clothing appropriate for the weather. Long pants can be useful when moving through wooded areas\, and insect repellent is worth considering in August. \nBecause the workshop involves mushroom hunting rather than staying exclusively on a maintained walking path\, expect uneven natural terrain and some time spent stopping\, bending down and closely examining the forest floor. \nWeather conditions can also change what the group encounters\, so check the forecast before leaving home. \nWho Should Attend?\nThe workshop is best suited to adults and older participants interested in learning mushroom foraging as a skill rather than simply taking a nature walk. \nNo previous mushroom-hunting experience is listed as a requirement. Beginners can learn the fundamentals of observation and identification\, while people who have already started exploring wild mushrooms can benefit from working directly with experienced instructors in the field. \nThe four-hour format allows considerably more time for instruction than a typical guided mushroom walk. \nEvent Details\nDate\nSaturday\, August 15\, 2026 \nTime\n9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. \nLocation\nDenison Pequotsepos Nature Center \nAddress\n109 Pequotsepos Road\nMystic\, CT 06355 \nAdmission\n$125 \nDuration\nApproximately four hours \nInstructors\nThe Mushroom Hunting Foundation \nProgram Includes\nIntroductory slideshow\, guided mushroom-foraging hike and cooking demonstration. \nExperience Level\nNo previous mushroom-foraging experience is listed as required. \nWhat to Wear\nSturdy closed-toe walking or hiking shoes and clothing appropriate for several hours outdoors. Long pants and insect repellent are recommended for woodland conditions. \nImportant Note\nNever consume a wild mushroom based solely on an identification made from a photograph\, app or casual comparison. The workshop teaches identification techniques under the guidance of experienced foragers. \nMore Information\nFor ticket purchases\, click on the Ticketing link below. \n\n 
URL:https://thectbeacon.com/event/mushroom-foraging-workshop-with-the-mushroom-hunting-foundation-at-dpnc/
CATEGORIES:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thectbeacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Mushroom-Foraging-Workshop-with-the-Mushroom-Hunring-Foundation-at-the-DPNC-Saturday-August-15-930-am-130-pm.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260808T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260808T120000
DTSTAMP:20260805T183829Z
CREATED:20260805T183829Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260805T183829Z
UID:10007109-1786183200-1786190400@thectbeacon.com
SUMMARY:Adventures in Nature: Fruits and Berries
DESCRIPTION:Adventures in Nature: Fruits and Berries invites children to discover the fascinating world of plants during a hands-on outdoor program at the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center on Saturday\, August 8. Designed for curious young explorers ages 6 to 10\, this free monthly program combines science\, nature\, and outdoor fun while encouraging kids to learn through observation and discovery. \nParticipants will explore the life cycle of plants\, learning how flowers become fruits and berries and why plants produce them in the first place. Along the way\, naturalists will introduce children to a variety of native plants found throughout Connecticut and teach simple identification skills that can be used on future hikes and family adventures. \nThe program also explores one of nature’s most important lessons: not every berry is safe to eat. Children will learn how to recognize common native fruits and berries while discovering which ones wildlife enjoys and which should always be admired from a distance. Through games\, guided exploration\, and hands-on activities\, young participants will gain a greater appreciation for the natural world around them. \nAs part of DPNC’s popular Adventures in Nature series\, this month’s program is offered free of charge thanks to the generous support of the Dominion Foundation. Space is limited\, and advance registration is required. \nEvent Details\nDate: Saturday\, August 8\, 2026 \nTime: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. \nLocation: Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center \nAddress: 109 Pequotsepos Road\, Mystic\, CT \nAges: Children 6–10 \nAdmission: Free (registration required – click Ticketing link below) \n 
URL:https://thectbeacon.com/event/adventures-in-nature-fruits-and-berries/
LOCATION:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center\, 109 Pequotsepos Road\, Mystic\, 06355\, United States
CATEGORIES:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thectbeacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Adventure-in-Nature-Fruits-and-Berries-at-the-Denison-Pequotsepos-Nature-Center-Saturday-August-8-10am-12pm.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260718T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260718T200000
DTSTAMP:20260705T025153Z
CREATED:20260608T020727Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260705T025153Z
UID:10005348-1784394000-1784404800@thectbeacon.com
SUMMARY:Nature Night Out at the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
DESCRIPTION:Nature Night Out gives kids ages 6 to 12 an evening of outdoor exploration\, hands-on activities\, and nature-themed fun at the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center. While parents enjoy a few hours to themselves\, participants spend the evening discovering the natural world through games\, wildlife encounters\, and guided adventures led by nature center staff. \nEach session combines education and entertainment\, allowing children to explore trails\, meet live animals\, and participate in activities designed to spark curiosity about nature. As the sun begins to set\, participants head out on an evening hike before gathering around the fire for pizza and s’mores\, creating a memorable outdoor experience with new friends. \nNature Night Out is perfect for children who love animals\, exploring outdoors\, and getting a little muddy while learning. With a mix of recreation\, discovery\, and campfire fun\, the program offers a unique way for young adventurers to spend a summer evening. \n2026 Session Schedule\nJune 20 | 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.\nRegistration \nJuly 18 | 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.\nRegistration \nAugust 22 | 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.\nRegistration \n\nAdditional Details\n\nLocation: Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center (DPNC)\nAges: 6-12 years\nTime: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.\nIncludes outdoor games and hands-on nature activities\nLive animal encounters\nEvening hike\nPizza and s’mores around the campfire\nParticipants should dress for the weather\nBring a flashlight\nPre-registration is required\nMember Rate: $34 per child\nNon-Member Rate: $40 per child\nMeets at DPNC for all sessions
URL:https://thectbeacon.com/event/nature-night-out-at-the-denison-pequotsepos-nature-center-2/2026-07-18/
LOCATION:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center\, 109 Pequotsepos Road\, Mystic\, 06355\, United States
CATEGORIES:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thectbeacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Nature-Night-Out-at-the-Denison-Pequotsepos-Nature-Center-5pm-to-8pm.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260718T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260718T120000
DTSTAMP:20260608T023021Z
CREATED:20260608T023021Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260608T023021Z
UID:10005350-1784368800-1784376000@thectbeacon.com
SUMMARY:Discovery Station at the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
DESCRIPTION:Discovery Station at the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center is a monthly family program designed to help children and caregivers explore the natural world together. Through hands-on activities\, live animal encounters\, and self-guided exploration\, participants can discover nature at their own pace while learning about the plants\, animals\, and habitats that make the region unique. \nEach session features themed activity stations where families can investigate natural artifacts\, meet animal ambassadors\, and participate in interactive learning experiences. A hands-on craft adds a creative element to the program\, while a self-guided hike and scavenger hunt encourage participants to continue their discoveries outdoors. \nThe program is ideal for families with children of all ages who enjoy exploring nature together. Its flexible format allows visitors to move through activities at their own pace\, making it an accessible and welcoming experience for a wide range of ages and interests. \n2026 Session Schedule\nJuly 18 | 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.\nRegistration \nAugust 15 | 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.\nRegistration \n\nAdditional Details\n\nLocation: Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center (DPNC)\nMeets on the third Saturday of each month\nTime: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.\nChildren must attend with a caregiver\nOpen to kids of all ages\nInclusive\, family-friendly format\nThemed activity stations\nLive animal encounters\nNatural artifacts to examine\nHands-on craft activity\nSelf-guided hike and scavenger hunt\nFamilies may move through activities at their own pace\nMeets at DPNC\nPre-registration is recommended through the links above
URL:https://thectbeacon.com/event/discovery-station-at-the-denison-pequotsepos-nature-center/2026-07-18/
LOCATION:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center\, 109 Pequotsepos Road\, Mystic\, 06355\, United States
CATEGORIES:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thectbeacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Discovery-Station-at-the-Denison-Pequotsepos-Nature-Center-10am-12-pm.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260620T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260620T200000
DTSTAMP:20260705T025153Z
CREATED:20260608T020727Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260705T025153Z
UID:10005347-1781974800-1781985600@thectbeacon.com
SUMMARY:Nature Night Out at the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
DESCRIPTION:Nature Night Out gives kids ages 6 to 12 an evening of outdoor exploration\, hands-on activities\, and nature-themed fun at the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center. While parents enjoy a few hours to themselves\, participants spend the evening discovering the natural world through games\, wildlife encounters\, and guided adventures led by nature center staff. \nEach session combines education and entertainment\, allowing children to explore trails\, meet live animals\, and participate in activities designed to spark curiosity about nature. As the sun begins to set\, participants head out on an evening hike before gathering around the fire for pizza and s’mores\, creating a memorable outdoor experience with new friends. \nNature Night Out is perfect for children who love animals\, exploring outdoors\, and getting a little muddy while learning. With a mix of recreation\, discovery\, and campfire fun\, the program offers a unique way for young adventurers to spend a summer evening. \n2026 Session Schedule\nJune 20 | 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.\nRegistration \nJuly 18 | 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.\nRegistration \nAugust 22 | 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.\nRegistration \n\nAdditional Details\n\nLocation: Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center (DPNC)\nAges: 6-12 years\nTime: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.\nIncludes outdoor games and hands-on nature activities\nLive animal encounters\nEvening hike\nPizza and s’mores around the campfire\nParticipants should dress for the weather\nBring a flashlight\nPre-registration is required\nMember Rate: $34 per child\nNon-Member Rate: $40 per child\nMeets at DPNC for all sessions
URL:https://thectbeacon.com/event/nature-night-out-at-the-denison-pequotsepos-nature-center-2/2026-06-20/
LOCATION:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center\, 109 Pequotsepos Road\, Mystic\, 06355\, United States
CATEGORIES:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thectbeacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Nature-Night-Out-at-the-Denison-Pequotsepos-Nature-Center-5pm-to-8pm.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260620T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260620T120000
DTSTAMP:20260614T221548Z
CREATED:20260614T221548Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260614T221548Z
UID:10005953-1781949600-1781956800@thectbeacon.com
SUMMARY:Discovery Station at Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
DESCRIPTION:Discovery Station at Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center invites children and caregivers to explore the natural world together during a free family-friendly program on Saturday\, June 20. Designed for kids of all ages\, this monthly event encourages hands-on learning through interactive activities\, animal encounters\, crafts\, and outdoor exploration in a welcoming environment where families can participate at their own pace. \nThroughout the morning\, participants can visit themed activity stations\, meet live animals\, and examine natural artifacts that help bring the month’s featured topic to life. The program is designed to spark curiosity and encourage discovery through observation\, play\, and creative engagement with the natural world. \nFamilies can also enjoy a hands-on craft project before heading out on a self-guided hike and scavenger hunt through the nature center’s beautiful trails. Whether you’re a regular visitor or discovering DPNC for the first time\, Discovery Station offers a fun and accessible way to connect with nature while spending quality time together outdoors. \nEvent Details\nDate: Saturday\, June 20\, 2026\nTime: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.\nLocation: Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center \nHighlights\n\nFree family-friendly program\nInteractive themed activity stations\nMeet live animals\nExplore natural artifacts\nHands-on craft activity\nSelf-guided hike and scavenger hunt\nCome anytime during the session\nDesigned for children of all ages with a caregiver\n\nPre-registration is available via the link at the bottom of the page. \n\n 
URL:https://thectbeacon.com/event/discovery-station-at-denison-pequotsepos-nature-center/
LOCATION:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center\, 109 Pequotsepos Road\, Mystic\, 06355\, United States
CATEGORIES:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thectbeacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Discovery-Station-at-the-Denison-Pequotsepos-Nature-Center-10am-12-pm-June-20.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260620T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260620T113000
DTSTAMP:20260617T205151Z
CREATED:20260617T205151Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260617T205151Z
UID:10006008-1781947800-1781955000@thectbeacon.com
SUMMARY:Nature Journaling with Jonah at the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
DESCRIPTION:Nature Journaling with Jonah at the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center invites participants to slow down\, observe\, and deepen their connection with the natural world on Saturday\, June 20. Led by Jonah Salsich\, the workshop introduces the practice of nature journaling\, a creative and accessible way to explore the outdoors through a combination of writing\, sketching\, observation\, and curiosity. \nInspired by the work of naturalist John Muir Laws and the Wild Wonder Foundation\, the program encourages participants to use words\, pictures\, and numbers to record what they notice in nature. The focus is not on artistic skill but on paying attention to the details of the world around us. Whether you’re an experienced artist\, an avid naturalist\, or someone who has never picked up a sketchbook before\, the workshop welcomes all ages and experience levels. \nParticipants will spend time observing the landscape\, plants\, wildlife\, and seasonal changes while learning techniques that can help cultivate mindfulness\, curiosity\, and a greater appreciation for the outdoors. The program offers a relaxed\, supportive environment where everyone is encouraged to explore and learn at their own pace. \nEvent Details\nDate: Saturday\, June 20\, 2026\nTime: 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.\nLocation: Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center \nAdmission\n\nMembers: $17\nNon-Members: $20\n\nWhat to Bring\nEssentials \n\nNotebook or sketchbook\nPens or pencils\n\nOptional \n\nColored pencils or markers\nPortable watercolors\nBinoculars\nMagnifying glass\nFolding chair or portable seat\n\n\n 
URL:https://thectbeacon.com/event/nature-journaling-with-jonah-at-the-denison-pequotsepos-nature-center/
LOCATION:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center\, 109 Pequotsepos Road\, Mystic\, 06355\, United States
CATEGORIES:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thectbeacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Nature-Journaling-with-Jonah-at-the-Denison-Pequotsepos-Nature-Center-Saturday-June-20-930am-to-1130am-Members-17-dollars-Non-members-20-dollars.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260607T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260607T190000
DTSTAMP:20260531T022900Z
CREATED:20260531T022900Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260531T022900Z
UID:10003079-1780844400-1780858800@thectbeacon.com
SUMMARY:Sheets Family Forest Guided Hike
DESCRIPTION:Sheets Family Forest Guided Hike invites outdoor enthusiasts to explore one of eastern Connecticut’s scenic natural landscapes on Sunday\, June 7. This guided walk showcases a diverse mix of habitats\, including bogs\, vernal pools\, the Green Fall River\, and rolling forested hills\, offering participants an opportunity to experience the area’s natural beauty alongside knowledgeable guides. \nThe approximately three-mile hike follows moderate terrain and highlights both ecological and historical features found throughout the forest. Along the route\, hikers will encounter remnants of the area’s past\, including old stone foundations\, rock walls\, and the remains of a historic mill\, providing a glimpse into the region’s agricultural and industrial heritage. The combination of natural scenery and local history makes this a rewarding experience for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. \nThis free program is well suited for adults and interested children looking to spend an afternoon outdoors. Participants should come prepared for a moderate hike with comfortable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing. Advance registration is required\, and both members and non-members are welcome to attend. \n  \n 
URL:https://thectbeacon.com/event/sheets-family-forest-guided-hike/
LOCATION:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center\, 109 Pequotsepos Road\, Mystic\, 06355\, United States
CATEGORIES:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thectbeacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Sheets-Family-Forest-Guided-Hike.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260607T000000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260607T000000
DTSTAMP:20260608T014047Z
CREATED:20260608T013306Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260608T014047Z
UID:10005346-1780790400-1780790400@thectbeacon.com
SUMMARY:Adventures in Nature at the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
DESCRIPTION:Adventures in Nature: for ages 6-10 is a monthly program offered at the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center. These engaging programs are designed to bring children outdoors to learn about nature through hands-on experiences\, discovery\, and themes that focus on the wildlife\, plants\, and habitats that thrive in our region of southeastern Connecticut. Sessions take place on the second Saturday of each month. \nTopics change each month\, allowing children to try something new each time while learning about the wonders of nature all around them. Children will search for critters under a pond’s surface\, look for bugs and learn about the edible fruits and berries that grow in our forests. \nIf your child loves to be outdoors and ask questions about the world around them\, this is the perfect series for them. Provided by nature center educators\, Adventures in Nature will allow your child to have fun while exploring and learning about science. \n2026 Session Schedule\nJune 13 – Pond Dipping\nExplore the duck pond\, use pond dipping nets\, and discover the aquatic creatures living beneath the water’s surface.\nRegister Here \nJuly 11 – Insects\nSearch for insects and learn about the important role they play in local ecosystems.\nRegister Here \nAugust 8 – Fruits and Berries\nDiscover seasonal fruits and berries while learning how plants produce food for wildlife and people.\nRegister Here \n\nAdditional Details\n\nLocation: Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center (DPNC)\nAges: 6-10 years\nHeld on the second Saturday of each month\nTime: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.\nPre-registration is required\nPrograms include outdoor exploration and hands-on learning activities\nParticipants should dress appropriately for outdoor conditions\nSome activities may involve muddy or wet conditions depending on the topic and weather\nMeets at DPNC for each session
URL:https://thectbeacon.com/event/adventures-in-nature-at-the-denison-pequotsepos-nature-center/
CATEGORIES:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thectbeacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Adventures-in-Nature-at-the-Denison-Pequotsepos-Nature-Center-the-second-saturday-of-each-month-10-am-to-12-pm.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260531T200000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260531T213000
DTSTAMP:20260528T210100Z
CREATED:20260514T000757Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260528T210100Z
UID:10001554-1780257600-1780263000@thectbeacon.com
SUMMARY:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center Full Blue Moon Walk
DESCRIPTION:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center Full Blue Moon Walk offers a rare chance to experience the trails and shoreline atmosphere surrounding the Peace Sanctuary under the glow of a rising full moon above the Mystic River. Guided by an educator from Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center\, the evening walk combines nature\, quiet reflection\, and nighttime scenery in a setting that feels dramatically different after dark. As participants move through the sanctuary trails\, the changing light\, sounds of the river\, and open night sky create an atmosphere that feels calm\, slightly surreal\, and deeply tied to the natural landscape of coastal Connecticut. \nThe Peace Sanctuary\, tucked along River Road in Mystic\, is known for its wooded trails and peaceful environment\, making it especially suited for guided evening walks like this one. Along the route\, participants may spot lingering spring wildflowers while learning more about the local ecosystem and the changing nighttime environment. Unlike daytime hikes filled with crowds and activity\, moonlit walks at the sanctuary tend to feel quieter and more immersive\, with attention shifting toward subtle sounds\, shadows\, and the movement of the moon across the water. \nFull Blue Moon Walk takes place Sunday\, May 31\, from 8:15 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. and is geared toward adults comfortable walking moderate uneven terrain. The walk meets at the bottom of the driveway at the Peace Sanctuary located at 233 River Road in Mystic. Organizers note that the event takes place rain or shine\, though heavy rain will result in cancellation. Pre-registration is required\, and participants can register by clicking the event link below. \nRules and Suggestions:\n• Pre-registration is required\n• The walk is free to attend\n• Moderate uneven terrain should be expected\n• The event is best suited for adults\n• Full moon walks take place rain or shine unless heavy rain occurs\n• Participants should meet at the bottom of the driveway at Peace Sanctuary\, 233 River Road in Mystic \n 
URL:https://thectbeacon.com/event/denison-pequotsepos-nature-center-full-blue-moon-walk/
LOCATION:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center\, 109 Pequotsepos Road\, Mystic\, 06355\, United States
CATEGORIES:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thectbeacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Denison-Pequotsepos-Nature-Center-Full-Blue-Moon-Walk.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260524T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260524T123000
DTSTAMP:20260514T001156Z
CREATED:20260513T235529Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260514T001156Z
UID:10001553-1779620400-1779625800@thectbeacon.com
SUMMARY:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center Hike the Nature Center
DESCRIPTION:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center Hike the Nature Center invites visitors to slow down and explore the forests\, meadows\, and wetlands surrounding Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center during a guided late morning walk through one of southeastern Connecticut’s most beloved natural spaces. Designed as a relaxed group hike rather than an intense outdoor trek\, the program encourages participants to pay closer attention to the wildlife\, plants\, and seasonal changes unfolding along the trails as spring settles across the region. For nature lovers\, photographers\, and families looking for a quieter way to spend part of the weekend\, the experience offers a refreshing break from crowded shoreline destinations and busy holiday events. \nThe Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center has long been known for its wooded trail system and environmental education programs\, with paths winding through wetlands\, open meadows\, and shaded forest sections that change dramatically throughout the year. During the hike\, guides will help participants spot local plants and animals while discussing the ecosystems that make the property such an important natural resource in the Mystic area. Depending on the conditions\, hikers may encounter birds\, spring wildflowers\, frogs\, turtles\, and other wildlife active during the season. \nHike the Nature Center takes place Sunday\, May 24 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and is free to attend\, though organizers note that advance registration is required. The hike meets directly at the Nature Center and is intended for participants interested in exploring the outdoors at an approachable pace while learning more about the environment surrounding them. Participants can register by clicking the event link below. \nRules and Suggestions:\n• Pre-registration is required\n• The event is free to attend\n• Participants will meet at Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center\n• The hike includes trails through forests\, meadows\, and wetlands \nSEO Description:
URL:https://thectbeacon.com/event/denison-pequotsepos-nature-center-hike-the-nature-center/
LOCATION:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center\, 109 Pequotsepos Road\, Mystic\, 06355\, United States
CATEGORIES:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thectbeacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Denison-Pequotsepos-Nature-Center-Hike-the-Nature-Center-May-24.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260523T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260523T200000
DTSTAMP:20260520T193703Z
CREATED:20260520T193703Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260520T193703Z
UID:10002566-1779555600-1779566400@thectbeacon.com
SUMMARY:Nature Night Out at the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
DESCRIPTION:Nature Night Out at the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center gives kids ages 6–12 an evening of outdoor adventure\, animal encounters\, and campfire fun in Mystic while parents enjoy a night off. Held at Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center\, the program invites children to explore the outdoors through hands-on nature activities\, interactive games\, live animal experiences\, and an evening hike through the nature center’s trails. Designed as both an educational and social experience\, the event combines outdoor exploration with the excitement of staying out after dark in one of the region’s most scenic wooded settings. \nThroughout the evening\, participants will take part in guided activities focused on nature\, wildlife\, and environmental discovery while also meeting some of the Nature Center’s resident animals up close. As daylight fades\, the group heads out for a flashlight-assisted evening hike\, adding an extra sense of adventure to the experience. Organizers encourage children to dress for the weather and come prepared for time outdoors as the event moves between trails\, activity spaces\, and campfire gathering areas. \nThe night wraps up around the fire with pizza and s’mores\, giving the event the feel of a classic summer camp evening mixed with hands-on environmental learning. Nature Night Out continues to be one of the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center’s more popular youth programs\, offering families in SE Connecticut a fun and active evening experience centered around outdoor exploration and nature connection. Pre-registration is required. \n 
URL:https://thectbeacon.com/event/nature-night-out-at-the-denison-pequotsepos-nature-center/
LOCATION:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center\, 109 Pequotsepos Road\, Mystic\, 06355\, United States
CATEGORIES:Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thectbeacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Nature-Night-Out-at-the-Denison-Pequotsepos-Nature-Center-Ages-6-to-12.jpeg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR