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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260814T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260814T193000
DTSTAMP:20260812T232301Z
CREATED:20260812T232301Z
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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:20260814T203000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260814T223000
DTSTAMP:20260626T233945Z
CREATED:20260513T011926Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260626T233945Z
UID:10001493-1786739400-1786746600@thectbeacon.com
SUMMARY:Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center's Stargazing Nights
DESCRIPTION:Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center’s Stargazing Nights turn a quiet Friday evening in Ninigret Park into one of the most atmospheric experiences in southern New England. Hosted by Frosty Drew Observatory & Science Center\, the weekly gathering invites visitors to explore the night sky through powerful telescopes while astronomers guide guests across planets\, star clusters\, distant galaxies\, and the glowing band of the Milky Way overhead. Under some of the darkest skies in Rhode Island\, the experience feels less like a formal science program and more like stumbling into a community of people quietly obsessed with the universe. \nAs darkness settles over Ninigret Park\, visitors can expect views that change depending on the season and sky conditions\, often including Saturn’s rings\, Jupiter’s moons\, the cratered surface of the Moon\, and deep space objects rarely visible in brighter suburban areas. The observatory’s Sky Theatre and telescope stations create an immersive environment where curious first-timers mingle with amateur astronomers and longtime stargazers. There’s something strangely calming about standing in near silence while strangers take turns peering into the cosmos\, especially on clear summer nights when the Milky Way stretches visibly across the sky. \nThe observatory typically opens around 8:30 p.m. on Friday nights and remains active through at least 10:30 p.m.\, sometimes later depending on weather and viewing conditions. Because the event is weather dependent\, updates are posted on the day of the event before 3 p.m. Organizers also note that Ninigret Park’s dark sky rules prohibit white light use after dusk in order to protect night vision and sensitive astronomical equipment\, giving the entire area an almost surreal glow of dim red lights and shadowy pathways. Tickets for Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center’s Stargazing Nights can be purchased by clicking the event link below. \nWhen ticket sales open\, a link to purchase / acquire tickets will be added to the “Cost” field on the event page. Once event capacity is reached\, these fields will be listed as “Sold Out“\, and we will be unable to allow entry to any more guests. \nRules and Suggestions:\n• Guests should avoid using white flashlights\, phone flashlights\, or bright screens after dusk\n• Red light flashlights are encouraged to preserve night vision\n• Bug spray is highly recommended during warmer months due to mosquitoes and insects near the wildlife refuge\n• Weather conditions may affect visibility or event operations\n• Children ages 5 and older require tickets\n• Arriving early is recommended for the best viewing opportunities and parking access \n 
URL:https://thectbeacon.com/event/frosty-drew-observatory-and-science-centers-stargazing-nights/2026-08-14/
LOCATION:Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center\, 61-62 Park Lane\, Charlestown\, RI\, 02813\, United States
CATEGORIES:Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thectbeacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Frosty-Drew-Observatory-and-Science-Centers-Stargazing-Nights.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260815T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260815T103000
DTSTAMP:20260730T010413Z
CREATED:20260730T010413Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260730T010413Z
UID:10007053-1786784400-1786789800@thectbeacon.com
SUMMARY:Natural History Walks at Napatree Point Conservation Area
DESCRIPTION:Natural History Walks invite visitors to discover the remarkable wildlife\, coastal habitats\, and rich natural history of the Napatree Point Conservation Area during guided Saturday morning walks throughout August. Hosted by The Watch Hill Conservancy\, these 90-minute programs pair participants with experienced naturalists who share insights into one of southern New England’s most ecologically significant barrier beaches while exploring its ever-changing landscape. (The Watch Hill Conservancy) \nStretching nearly two miles from Watch Hill into Little Narragansett Bay\, Napatree Point is a nationally recognized conservation area known for its pristine dunes\, salt marshes\, tidal lagoons\, and diverse wildlife. The preserve provides critical habitat for migratory shorebirds\, nesting species\, marine life\, and native coastal plants\, making every walk a little different depending on the season\, weather\, and wildlife activity. Guided by Conservancy naturalists\, participants learn how these fragile ecosystems work together while gaining a deeper appreciation for the area’s history and ongoing conservation efforts. \nEach walk is shaped by the interests of the group and what nature has to offer that morning. Topics may include coastal plants\, birds\, marine life\, dune ecology\, or the history of Napatree itself. Whether you’re an avid birder\, an aspiring naturalist\, or simply looking for a peaceful Saturday morning along the Rhode Island shoreline\, the program offers an engaging way to experience one of the region’s most beautiful coastal preserves. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult\, and advance registration is required. Walks continue in light rain but are canceled in the event of heavy downpours. \nEvent Details\nEvent: Natural History Walks \nDates: Saturdays\, August 1\, 8\, 15\, 22\, and 29\, 2026 \nTime: 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. \nLocation: Napatree Point Conservation Area\nFort Road\nWatch Hill (Westerly)\, RI \nAdmission: Free (Registration Required) \nAges: All ages. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. \n\n 
URL:https://thectbeacon.com/event/natural-history-walks-at-napatree-point-conservation-area/2026-08-15/
LOCATION:Napatree Point\, Fort Road\, Westerly\, RI\, 02891\, United States
CATEGORIES:Napatree Point
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thectbeacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Natural-History-Walks-Napatree-Point-Conservation-Area-Saturdays-in-August-at-9am.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260821T203000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260821T223000
DTSTAMP:20260626T233945Z
CREATED:20260513T011926Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260626T233945Z
UID:10001494-1787344200-1787351400@thectbeacon.com
SUMMARY:Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center's Stargazing Nights
DESCRIPTION:Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center’s Stargazing Nights turn a quiet Friday evening in Ninigret Park into one of the most atmospheric experiences in southern New England. Hosted by Frosty Drew Observatory & Science Center\, the weekly gathering invites visitors to explore the night sky through powerful telescopes while astronomers guide guests across planets\, star clusters\, distant galaxies\, and the glowing band of the Milky Way overhead. Under some of the darkest skies in Rhode Island\, the experience feels less like a formal science program and more like stumbling into a community of people quietly obsessed with the universe. \nAs darkness settles over Ninigret Park\, visitors can expect views that change depending on the season and sky conditions\, often including Saturn’s rings\, Jupiter’s moons\, the cratered surface of the Moon\, and deep space objects rarely visible in brighter suburban areas. The observatory’s Sky Theatre and telescope stations create an immersive environment where curious first-timers mingle with amateur astronomers and longtime stargazers. There’s something strangely calming about standing in near silence while strangers take turns peering into the cosmos\, especially on clear summer nights when the Milky Way stretches visibly across the sky. \nThe observatory typically opens around 8:30 p.m. on Friday nights and remains active through at least 10:30 p.m.\, sometimes later depending on weather and viewing conditions. Because the event is weather dependent\, updates are posted on the day of the event before 3 p.m. Organizers also note that Ninigret Park’s dark sky rules prohibit white light use after dusk in order to protect night vision and sensitive astronomical equipment\, giving the entire area an almost surreal glow of dim red lights and shadowy pathways. Tickets for Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center’s Stargazing Nights can be purchased by clicking the event link below. \nWhen ticket sales open\, a link to purchase / acquire tickets will be added to the “Cost” field on the event page. Once event capacity is reached\, these fields will be listed as “Sold Out“\, and we will be unable to allow entry to any more guests. \nRules and Suggestions:\n• Guests should avoid using white flashlights\, phone flashlights\, or bright screens after dusk\n• Red light flashlights are encouraged to preserve night vision\n• Bug spray is highly recommended during warmer months due to mosquitoes and insects near the wildlife refuge\n• Weather conditions may affect visibility or event operations\n• Children ages 5 and older require tickets\n• Arriving early is recommended for the best viewing opportunities and parking access \n 
URL:https://thectbeacon.com/event/frosty-drew-observatory-and-science-centers-stargazing-nights/2026-08-21/
LOCATION:Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center\, 61-62 Park Lane\, Charlestown\, RI\, 02813\, United States
CATEGORIES:Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thectbeacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Frosty-Drew-Observatory-and-Science-Centers-Stargazing-Nights.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260822T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260822T103000
DTSTAMP:20260730T010413Z
CREATED:20260730T010413Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260730T010413Z
UID:10007054-1787389200-1787394600@thectbeacon.com
SUMMARY:Natural History Walks at Napatree Point Conservation Area
DESCRIPTION:Natural History Walks invite visitors to discover the remarkable wildlife\, coastal habitats\, and rich natural history of the Napatree Point Conservation Area during guided Saturday morning walks throughout August. Hosted by The Watch Hill Conservancy\, these 90-minute programs pair participants with experienced naturalists who share insights into one of southern New England’s most ecologically significant barrier beaches while exploring its ever-changing landscape. (The Watch Hill Conservancy) \nStretching nearly two miles from Watch Hill into Little Narragansett Bay\, Napatree Point is a nationally recognized conservation area known for its pristine dunes\, salt marshes\, tidal lagoons\, and diverse wildlife. The preserve provides critical habitat for migratory shorebirds\, nesting species\, marine life\, and native coastal plants\, making every walk a little different depending on the season\, weather\, and wildlife activity. Guided by Conservancy naturalists\, participants learn how these fragile ecosystems work together while gaining a deeper appreciation for the area’s history and ongoing conservation efforts. \nEach walk is shaped by the interests of the group and what nature has to offer that morning. Topics may include coastal plants\, birds\, marine life\, dune ecology\, or the history of Napatree itself. Whether you’re an avid birder\, an aspiring naturalist\, or simply looking for a peaceful Saturday morning along the Rhode Island shoreline\, the program offers an engaging way to experience one of the region’s most beautiful coastal preserves. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult\, and advance registration is required. Walks continue in light rain but are canceled in the event of heavy downpours. \nEvent Details\nEvent: Natural History Walks \nDates: Saturdays\, August 1\, 8\, 15\, 22\, and 29\, 2026 \nTime: 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. \nLocation: Napatree Point Conservation Area\nFort Road\nWatch Hill (Westerly)\, RI \nAdmission: Free (Registration Required) \nAges: All ages. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. \n\n 
URL:https://thectbeacon.com/event/natural-history-walks-at-napatree-point-conservation-area/2026-08-22/
LOCATION:Napatree Point\, Fort Road\, Westerly\, RI\, 02891\, United States
CATEGORIES:Napatree Point
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thectbeacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Natural-History-Walks-Napatree-Point-Conservation-Area-Saturdays-in-August-at-9am.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:20260828T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260828T210000
DTSTAMP:20260627T001040Z
CREATED:20260503T034000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260627T001040Z
UID:10000221-1787936400-1787950800@thectbeacon.com
SUMMARY:Plainville Fire Company 39th Hot Air Balloon Festival
DESCRIPTION:Plainville Fire Company 39th Hot Air Balloon Festival returns as one of the largest and most anticipated community events of the season\, drawing massive crowds to Norton Park. With more than 13\,000 people already showing interest\, the festival has grown into a major regional attraction\, blending visual spectacle with a full schedule of activities across two days. Hosted by the Plainville Fire Company\, the event also supports local firefighters\, adding a strong community purpose to its scale. \nAt the center of the festival are the hot air balloons\, with early morning and evening launches offering the most dramatic views as they rise over the park. These moments draw large crowds and create a visual experience that sets the event apart from typical fairs. Around the launches\, the festival expands into a full-day event featuring food vendors\, live entertainment\, and activities that keep the grounds active from morning through night. \nThe two-day schedule gives visitors flexibility\, with Friday evening offering a more relaxed entry into the weekend and Saturday delivering a full day of programming starting at sunrise. The combination of large attendance\, family-friendly activities\, and the unique draw of hot air balloons makes this one of the standout summer events in Connecticut. For many\, it’s not just a festival. It’s a seasonal tradition built around community\, spectacle\, and shared experience.
URL:https://thectbeacon.com/event/plainville-fire-company-39th-hot-air-balloon-festival/
LOCATION:Norton Park\, 1-15 Norton Park Rd\, Plainvillw\, CT\, 06062\, United States
CATEGORIES:Norton Park
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thectbeacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Plainville-Fire-Department-Hot-Air-Balloon-Festival.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260828T203000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260828T223000
DTSTAMP:20260626T233945Z
CREATED:20260513T011926Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260626T233945Z
UID:10001495-1787949000-1787956200@thectbeacon.com
SUMMARY:Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center's Stargazing Nights
DESCRIPTION:Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center’s Stargazing Nights turn a quiet Friday evening in Ninigret Park into one of the most atmospheric experiences in southern New England. Hosted by Frosty Drew Observatory & Science Center\, the weekly gathering invites visitors to explore the night sky through powerful telescopes while astronomers guide guests across planets\, star clusters\, distant galaxies\, and the glowing band of the Milky Way overhead. Under some of the darkest skies in Rhode Island\, the experience feels less like a formal science program and more like stumbling into a community of people quietly obsessed with the universe. \nAs darkness settles over Ninigret Park\, visitors can expect views that change depending on the season and sky conditions\, often including Saturn’s rings\, Jupiter’s moons\, the cratered surface of the Moon\, and deep space objects rarely visible in brighter suburban areas. The observatory’s Sky Theatre and telescope stations create an immersive environment where curious first-timers mingle with amateur astronomers and longtime stargazers. There’s something strangely calming about standing in near silence while strangers take turns peering into the cosmos\, especially on clear summer nights when the Milky Way stretches visibly across the sky. \nThe observatory typically opens around 8:30 p.m. on Friday nights and remains active through at least 10:30 p.m.\, sometimes later depending on weather and viewing conditions. Because the event is weather dependent\, updates are posted on the day of the event before 3 p.m. Organizers also note that Ninigret Park’s dark sky rules prohibit white light use after dusk in order to protect night vision and sensitive astronomical equipment\, giving the entire area an almost surreal glow of dim red lights and shadowy pathways. Tickets for Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center’s Stargazing Nights can be purchased by clicking the event link below. \nWhen ticket sales open\, a link to purchase / acquire tickets will be added to the “Cost” field on the event page. Once event capacity is reached\, these fields will be listed as “Sold Out“\, and we will be unable to allow entry to any more guests. \nRules and Suggestions:\n• Guests should avoid using white flashlights\, phone flashlights\, or bright screens after dusk\n• Red light flashlights are encouraged to preserve night vision\n• Bug spray is highly recommended during warmer months due to mosquitoes and insects near the wildlife refuge\n• Weather conditions may affect visibility or event operations\n• Children ages 5 and older require tickets\n• Arriving early is recommended for the best viewing opportunities and parking access \n 
URL:https://thectbeacon.com/event/frosty-drew-observatory-and-science-centers-stargazing-nights/2026-08-28/
LOCATION:Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center\, 61-62 Park Lane\, Charlestown\, RI\, 02813\, United States
CATEGORIES:Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thectbeacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Frosty-Drew-Observatory-and-Science-Centers-Stargazing-Nights.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260829T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260829T110000
DTSTAMP:20260730T010413Z
CREATED:20260730T010413Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260730T010413Z
UID:10007055-1787994000-1788001200@thectbeacon.com
SUMMARY:Natural History Walks at Napatree Point Conservation Area
DESCRIPTION:Natural History Walks invite visitors to discover the remarkable wildlife\, coastal habitats\, and rich natural history of the Napatree Point Conservation Area during guided Saturday morning walks throughout August. Hosted by The Watch Hill Conservancy\, these 90-minute programs pair participants with experienced naturalists who share insights into one of southern New England’s most ecologically significant barrier beaches while exploring its ever-changing landscape. (The Watch Hill Conservancy) \nStretching nearly two miles from Watch Hill into Little Narragansett Bay\, Napatree Point is a nationally recognized conservation area known for its pristine dunes\, salt marshes\, tidal lagoons\, and diverse wildlife. The preserve provides critical habitat for migratory shorebirds\, nesting species\, marine life\, and native coastal plants\, making every walk a little different depending on the season\, weather\, and wildlife activity. Guided by Conservancy naturalists\, participants learn how these fragile ecosystems work together while gaining a deeper appreciation for the area’s history and ongoing conservation efforts. \nEach walk is shaped by the interests of the group and what nature has to offer that morning. Topics may include coastal plants\, birds\, marine life\, dune ecology\, or the history of Napatree itself. Whether you’re an avid birder\, an aspiring naturalist\, or simply looking for a peaceful Saturday morning along the Rhode Island shoreline\, the program offers an engaging way to experience one of the region’s most beautiful coastal preserves. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult\, and advance registration is required. Walks continue in light rain but are canceled in the event of heavy downpours. \nEvent Details\nEvent: Natural History Walks \nDates: Saturdays\, August 1\, 8\, 15\, 22\, and 29\, 2026 \nTime: 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. \nLocation: Napatree Point Conservation Area\nFort Road\nWatch Hill (Westerly)\, RI \nAdmission: Free (Registration Required) \nAges: All ages. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. \n\n 
URL:https://thectbeacon.com/event/natural-history-walks-at-napatree-point-conservation-area/2026-08-29/
LOCATION:Napatree Point\, Fort Road\, Westerly\, RI\, 02891\, United States
CATEGORIES:Napatree Point
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thectbeacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Natural-History-Walks-Napatree-Point-Conservation-Area-Saturdays-in-August-at-9am.jpg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR