CLICK ON PROGRAM NAME TO REGISTER. All programs are eligible for member discounts (Pacesetters and above) unless noted with (*). Advance registration encouraged – events may be cancelled if minimums are not met.
Art in Nature Programs
MAKE & TAKE: PINE NEEDLE BASKETRY WORKSHOP
In this two-class evening workshop (Wednesday, March 11 & Wednesday, March 18), Dr. Clare Walker will lead you as you discover the process of creating a traditional and beautiful pine needle basket. In the first class you will learn how to start your basket using a hand-made wood base and then coil long-leaf pine needles using waxed linen thread. Splitting the class over two evenings allows you to work on the project at home if you wish to create a larger basket. In the second session we will learn finishing techniques and different stitches so you can take home a completed pine needle basket. Although suitable for beginners, this class will be most enjoyable for those who enjoy working with crafts or have some basketry/sewing experience. Those with experience can try new stitch techniques, shapes or a coiled start. Waxed threads will be provided but you can bring your own colors to create a unique basket. This class is ideal for adults & teens ages 16+.
Instructor: Dr. Clare Walker, Master Naturalist
Wednesday, March 11th and Wednesday March 18th
6:00 – 8:00PM
Cost: $45/participant
Advance registration encouraged – event will be cancelled if minimum not met.
MAKE & TAKE: Hickory Bark Syrup
Early spring is syrup season but creating maple syrup is a long, tricky process, so an alternative is hickory bark syrup. Dr. Clare Walker will share how you can use the distinctive bark of shagbark hickory to make a delicious and distinctive syrup – sweet, yet smoky. The process is simple, requires no tools other than regular kitchen supplies and only takes about two hours. We will make a batch of hickory syrup so everyone can take home a 4oz jar. While the syrup simmers, we will taste items that can be made with the syrup including drinks, cookies and ice cream so you will be inspired with way to use yours! This program is ideal for adults.
Instructor: Dr. Clare Walker, Master Naturalist
Sunday, March 29th
1:00 – 3:30PM
Cost: $30/participant
Advance registration encouraged – event will be cancelled if minimum not met.
INTRO TO WATERCOLOR: PAINTING FLOWERS
Learn how to use watercolors—even if you hate watercolor! We’ll practice different techniques and tricks before putting it all together. Your take-home piece can be a landscape, bouquets or a single flower — anything you like. You’re set up for success with MICA-trained artist, Brittany Roger. All supplies provided. Paper will be provided. Participants are welcome to bring their own supplies–if they prefer. Ideal for ages 7+ (children must be accompanied by an adult).
Instructor: Brittany Roger, Manager of School Programs
Saturday, May 23rd
1:00 – 3:00PM
Cost: $20/participant
Advance registration encouraged – event will be cancelled if minimum not met.
MAKE & TAKE: Woven Willow Garden Flower
A wonderful introduction into willow weaving. In this workshop, Dr. Clare Walker will teach you how to weave a traditional round base (the start of a round willow basket) and then insert your stakes that will become your flower petals. The finished flower approximately 2ft in diameter will be mounted on a stout rod and can be displayed in your yard. During the program, you will have the opportunity to hear about different types of willow, the methods of soaking and mellowing and how to continue willow weaving. Working with willow requires hand strength such as that needed to open a sealed jar. It can be challenging for people with arthritis or existing hand/tendon issues. This program is ideal for adults.
Head home with knowledge and enthusiasm to continue your willow journey.
Instructor: Dr. Clare Walker, Master Naturalist
Sunday, May 31st
1:00 – 5:00PM
Cost: $50/participant
Advance registration encouraged – event will be cancelled if minimum not met.
NATURE EXPLORATION Programs
NATURE BY THE FIRE- ANIMALS IN LOVE
Warm up by the campfire and join Naturalist, Ash for a new monthly tradition at Irvine! Each month features a different seasonal nature theme but every session promises the same cozy fun: roasting marshmallows, meeting one of Irvine’s animal ambassadors and diving into hands on nature themed fun. Fireside chats are a relaxed, family friendly way to enjoy the outdoors, one campfire at a time! Ideal for all ages.
Instructor: Ash Miller, Environmental Educator and Animal Care Coordinator
Friday, February 6th
5:30 – 6:30PM
Cost: $5/participant and FREE for members
Advance registration encouraged – event will be cancelled if minimum not met.
Future dates include: March 7th, April 3rd, May 2nd, June 5th, July 3rd, August 14th
MAPLE MAGIC
It may sound sappy, but there’s magic in our trees at this time of year! Join Irvine’s naturalists for an outdoor hike-n-learn in great taste. Learn how to identify maple trees and why this is peak season for collecting sap. Practice using a hand drill to experience how trees are tapped, check buckets for sap and see how the sticky fluid is converted into syrup over fires and an evaporator. You’ll even get a taste of this liquid gold as a reward for all the hard work. This event is great for the entire family.
Multiple Sessions offered:
Sunday, February 8th, 10:00-11:30AM– POSTPONED
Sunday, February 8th, 1:00-2:30PM– POSTPONED
Saturday, February 14th, 10:00-11:30AM
Saturday, February 14th, 1:00-2:30PM
Saturday, February 28th, 9:00-11:30AM **MEMBERS ONLY Pancake Breakfast**
Sunday, March 8th, 10:00-11:30AM
Sunday, March 8th, 1:00-2:30PM
Cost: $8 (children under 3 are free)
Limited space available, pre-registration encouraged. PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
MAPLE MAGIC 2026 is sponsored in part by Wegmans. We are grateful for their support.
PLAYING WITH FIRE FOR WOMEN YOUNG & OLD
Learn the art of fire building in a fun and supportive environment. Discover where to find dry wood and tinder even in winter, which woods burn best and how to build and start a fire. Try using ferro rods, experiment with everyday fire-starting materials from lip balm to hand sanitizer and much more. Even try some safe wood splitting! Everyone will take home a small fire-starter kit. We will keep a kettle on the fire for hot drinks. *Including anyone who self-identifies as female. This program is ideal for women and young women ages 12+.
Instructor: Dr. Clare Walker, Master Naturalist
Sunday, March 1st
2:00 – 4:00PM
Cost: $20/participant
Advance registration encouraged – event will be cancelled if minimum not met.
NATURE BY THE FIRE- NOCTURNAL NEIGHBORS
Warm up by the campfire and join Naturalist, Ash for a new monthly tradition at Irvine! Each month features a different seasonal nature theme but every session promises the same cozy fun: roasting marshmallows, meeting one of Irvine’s animal ambassadors and diving into hands on nature themed fun. Fireside chats are a relaxed, family friendly way to enjoy the outdoors, one campfire at a time! Ideal for all ages.
Instructor: Ash Miller, Environmental Educator and Animal Care Coordinator
Saturday, March 7th
5:30 – 6:30PM
Cost: $5/participant and FREE for members
Advance registration encouraged – event will be cancelled if minimum not met.
Future dates include: April 3rd, May 2nd, June 5th, July 3rd, August 14th
*LUNCH & LEARN: Trouble on the Half Shell
Turtles play remarkable roles in our ecosystems and cultures— yet many species are in decline. Join naturalist Kerry Wixted for an engaging and eye-opening journey into the world of turtles! Learn the basics of turtle biology, discover several of the unique species found in Maryland, and explore the key reasons their populations are struggling. You’ll also walk away with practical ways you can help turtles thrive in the wild.
PLUS: You’ll get to meet some of Irvine’s resident turtles up close!
Presenter: Kerry Wixted, Maryland Naturalist
Tuesday, March 10th
12:00 – 2:00PM
Cost: $30/members*; $40/non-members
Tickets include catered lunch. Advance registration recommended.
Speaker Bio: Kerry Wixted is a Maryland naturalist with over 15 years’ experience studying flora and fauna of Maryland. She has previously worked for the Maryland department of Natural Resources and has taught classes for Natural Forward’s Natural history Field Studies Program.
Irvine’s LUNCH & LEARN series is made possible by underwriting from Springwell Senior Living. We are grateful for their support.
*Discount for Pacesetter members and above. To reserve a table for 8, please contact Laura at 443-738-9215.
AMPHIBIANS AFTER HOURS NIGHT HIKE
Join Irvine Animal Programs Manager Mallory Mlynarek for a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Irvine’s amphibians after dark! We will search for Spring Peepers, Wood Frogs, Salamanders, and many more. If you have never heard the chorus of frogs in the springtime, this event is one you won’t want to miss! Ideal for ages 8+.
*Please wear sturdy, waterproof footwear with a good tread.
Instructor: Mallory Mlynarek, Manager of Animal Care
Saturday, March 14th
7:00 – 8:30PM
Cost: $10/participant
Advance registration encouraged – event will be cancelled if minimum not met.
NATURE BY THE FIRE- BUGS AND BONFIRES
Warm up by the campfire and join Naturalist, Ash for a new monthly tradition at Irvine! Each month features a different seasonal nature theme but every session promises the same cozy fun: roasting marshmallows, meeting one of Irvine’s animal ambassadors and diving into hands on nature themed fun. Fireside chats are a relaxed, family friendly way to enjoy the outdoors, one campfire at a time! Ideal for all ages.
Instructor: Ash Miller, Environmental Educator and Animal Care Coordinator
Friday, April 3rd
5:30 – 6:30PM
Cost: $5/participant and FREE for members
Advance registration encouraged – event will be cancelled if minimum not met.
Future dates include: May 2nd, June 5th, July 3rd, August 14th
MAKE & TAKE: FORAGED PESTO
Spring is the perfect time to forage for nutrition-filled wild foods. In this workshop, Dr. Clare Walker will instruct how to correctly identify many different edible wild greens, often dismissed as weeds. After foraging wild greens at Irvine, we will prepare our harvested leaves and create a pesto. Combine leaves of varying ‘spice’ with olive oil and optional foraged nuts to create your own perfect blend to take home. This program is ideal for adults.
Instructor: Dr. Clare Walker, Master Naturalist
Sunday, April 26th
2:00 – 4:00PM
Cost: $25/participant
Advance registration encouraged – event will be cancelled if minimum not met.
*LUNCH & LEARN: Botanical Beverages for People & Pollinators
Join Peter Wood proprietor of The French Paradox Wines & Spirit Shop and Dr. Clare Walker who leads Irvine’s Native Plant Team, for this fun and flavorful LUNCH & LEARN. Spring blossoms are an important food source for our early emerging spring pollinators, but their delicate floral scents and sweet nectar can also be captured to create delightful beverages. Enjoy an engaging lunch at Irvine Nature Center where you will taste some local spring wildflowers and blossoms transformed into distinctive spirit-free cocktails.
During this seasonal talk, Clare will highlight native flowering shrubs that can be a wonderful, easy-care addition to your own garden. Discover the many species of spring bees that these plants support, while also acting as hosts to several local butterfly species. These shrubs grow berries that attract birds from summer through winter providing four seasons of interest. We will also explore some important spring wildflowers, that may already grow in your yard, that support pollinators and can be harvested for their appealing flavors. As a keen forager as well as naturalist, Clare will provide information on easy methods to safely harvest and taste some local flowers.
If you have attended Pumpkins on the Green or any of Irvine’s Eat, Drink & Learn events, you are likely familiar with Peter Wood’s fabulous creations. As a drink connoisseur, Peter brings a refined knowledge about blending flavor profiles, skillfully balancing notes to create harmonius and complementary tastes. Peter will discuss his signature drink creations for the LUNCH & LEARN, as well as some of his favorite spring refreshments.
Tickets include a catered lunch and spirit-free cocktails.
Presenters: Dr. Clare Walker, Master Naturalist and Peter Wood, proprietor of The French Paradox and Spirit Shop Falls Road
Tuesday, April 28th
12:00 – 2:00PM
Cost: $30/members*; $40/non-members
Tickets include catered lunch. Advance registration recommended.
Irvine’s LUNCH & LEARN series is made possible by underwriting from Springwell Senior Living. We are grateful for their support.
*Discount for Pacesetter members and above. To reserve a table for 8, please contact Laura at 443-738-9215.
SOLD OUT- NATURE BY THE FIRE- BLOOMING BUDS
Warm up by the campfire and join Naturalist, Ash for a new monthly tradition at Irvine! Each month features a different seasonal nature theme but every session promises the same cozy fun: roasting marshmallows, meeting one of Irvine’s animal ambassadors and diving into hands on nature themed fun. Fireside chats are a relaxed, family friendly way to enjoy the outdoors, one campfire at a time! Ideal for all ages.
Instructor: Ash Miller, Environmental Educator and Animal Care Coordinator
Saturday, May 2nd
5:30 – 6:30PM
Cost: $5/participant and FREE for members
Advance registration encouraged – event will be cancelled if minimum not met.
Future dates include: May 2nd, June 5th, July 3rd, August 14th
*LUNCH & LEARN: Layering Your Landscape- How Native Plants & “Benign Neglect” Enrich Our Lives
Lists of native plants are easy to find, but knowing how to combine and use them effectively in your own landscape can be much more challenging. In this engaging program, discover how thoughtfully “layering” native plants can transform your yard into a beautiful, vibrant, and wildlife-friendly space.
Learn how to select and combine native plants to enhance the beauty of your landscape while supporting pollinators, birds, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. We’ll explore how diverse plantings can create a more dynamic garden that requires less formality, less mulch, and less work, while bringing more enjoyment and connection to nature.
You’ll also gain practical tips for incorporating native plants into existing gardens, designing plant combinations that thrive together, and creating outdoor spaces that help us feel more a part of nature rather than apart from it.
Following the luncheon and presentation, Janet will be selling a selection of high-quality native plants from her nursery and will be available to answer questions, offer plant recommendations and share expert advice on incorporating native species into your landscape. You can also enjoy a guided walk through Irvine’s Woodland Garden.
Tickets include a catered lunch and animal encounter.
Presenter: Janet Davis, expert gardener, grower, and owner of Hill House Farm & Nursery
Thursday, May 14th
12:00 – 2:00PM
Cost: $30/members*; $40/non-members
Tickets required- REGISTER TODAY!
To reserve a table for 8, please contact Laura at 443-738-9215.
Speaker Bio: Janet Davis
Known as the “cheerleader” for native plants, Janet Davis operates Hill House Farm & Nursery, which grows and sells only U.S.A. native plants, primarily mid-Atlantic natives and select cultivars. She uses her expertise with native plants to offer landscape design and consultation services. Janet Davis received a bachelor’s degree in Horticulture from Virginia Tech and has spent her entire working career growing something—fruit, veggie gardens, indoor plants, herbs and landscape plants, and her daughter, Olivia.
Irvine’s LUNCH & LEARN series is made possible by underwriting from Springwell Senior Living. We are grateful for their support.
*Discount for Pacesetter members and above. To reserve a table for 8, please contact Laura at 443-738-9215.
NATURE BY THE FIRE- CLEVER CAMOUFLAGE
Gather by the campfire with Naturalist, Ash, for a new monthly tradition at Irvine! Each month features a different seasonal nature theme, but every session promises the same cozy fun: roasting marshmallows, meeting one of Irvine’s animal ambassadors, and diving into hands-on nature-themed fun. Fireside chats are a relaxed, family-friendly way to enjoy the outdoors, one campfire at a time! Ideal for all ages.
Instructor: Ash Miller, Environmental Educator and Animal Care Coordinator
Friday, June 5th
5:30 – 6:30PM
Cost: $5/participant and FREE for members
Advance registration encouraged – event will be cancelled if minimum not met.
Future dates include: July 3rd, August 14th
NATURE BY THE FIRE
Gather by the campfire with Naturalist, Ash, for a new monthly tradition at Irvine! Each month features a different seasonal nature theme, but every session promises the same cozy fun: roasting marshmallows, meeting one of Irvine’s animal ambassadors, and diving into hands-on nature-themed fun. Fireside chats are a relaxed, family-friendly way to enjoy the outdoors, one campfire at a time! Ideal for all ages.
Instructor: Ash Miller, Environmental Educator and Animal Care Coordinator
Friday, July 3rd
5:30 – 6:30PM
Cost: $5/participant and FREE for members
Advance registration encouraged – event will be cancelled if minimum not met.
Future dates include: August 14th
NATURE BY THE FIRE
Gather by the campfire with Naturalist, Ash, for a new monthly tradition at Irvine! Each month features a different seasonal nature theme, but every session promises the same cozy fun: roasting marshmallows, meeting one of Irvine’s animal ambassadors, and diving into hands-on nature-themed fun. Fireside chats are a relaxed, family-friendly way to enjoy the outdoors, one campfire at a time! Ideal for all ages.
Instructor: Ash Miller, Environmental Educator and Animal Care Coordinator
Friday, August 14th
5:30 – 6:30PM
Cost: $5/participant and FREE for members
Advance registration encouraged – event will be cancelled if minimum not met.
Health and wellness Programs
Nature Worx: Soak in Nature’s Serenity
Nature Worx goes outside to go inside! Join Nature Worx for a 90-minute guided saunter in the woods. You will be guided through sensory awareness, nature observation, reflection and mindful movement. These saunters help participants slow down, reduce stress, and access their inner calm. This innovative, internationally recognized non-profit delivers nature-based experiential programs designed to help participants slow down, reduce stress, and access inner calm—while fully basking in the beauty and restorative power of the outdoors. Ideal for adults.
Nature Worx programs are grounded in mindfulness, evidence-based practices, and the belief that nature is a powerful source of healing, growth, and personal transformation. Come see for yourself–and experience nature in a way you never have before.
Instructor: Nature Worx guides
Sunday, April 19th
10:00 – 11:30 AM
Cost: Suggested cost per person $20. Sliding scale (pay what you can) available
Advance registration encouraged – event will be cancelled if minimum not met.
WORLD TAI CHI DAY – 7th Year at Irvine- led by Mary Pinkard and team
“One World… One Breath”. This is the motto of World Tai Chi Day– a global event with the sole purpose of promoting personal and global health and healing. People in hundreds of cities, in over 80 nations, on 6 continents, will take part in the celebration of Tai Chi. Locally, World Tai Chi Day will take place at Irvine’s Wedding Point, overlooking the Bluebird Meadow. The Mary Pinkard Qigong team will lead participants in a celebration of Tai Chi and Qigong, engaging in various breathing and moving meditations set to calming music, from these two 4,000-year-old practices. This event is ideal for ages 18+. No prior experience needed.
Instructors: Mary Pinkard, NQA Level II Instructor
Saturday, April 25th
9:30 – 10:30 AM
Cost: $15/participant
Pre-registration available, walkups welcome.
Nature Worx: Calming Hour for Caregivers
“Nature Worx offers nature-based experiential programs designed to help participants slow down, reduce stress, and access inner calm–while fully basking in the beauty and restorative power of the outdoors. This special session is for moms, dads, and other caregivers who need 90 minutes of much-deserved respite to help calm the mind, energize the body, and reconnect with the natural world. You will be guided through a sensory awareness exercise, nature observations, reflection, and mindful movement during this class and will wrap up with a 30-minute restorative yoga session with Irvine’s Animal Care Manager, Mallory Mlynarek. If you choose to bring your children (ages 4 and up are welcome), Irvine teachers will keep them busy with fun nature activities while you get to fully experience the restorative benefits of a guided nature saunter in the woods. Step away from the noise, breathe, and experience the rejuvenating power of the woods. Great for adults (child care provided for children ages 4+).
* Please bring your own yoga mat for the yoga portion of the session*
Instructor: Nature Worx guides, Irvine Environmental Educators, and Mallory Mlynarek, Animal Care Manager
Sunday, May 24th
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Cost: Suggested cost per person $20. Siding scale (pay what you can available)
Advance registration encouraged – event will be cancelled if minimum not met.
