Programs and Workshops for Adults

*MAKE & TAKE: CAROLINA WOVEN SNOWFLAKE 
A wonderful weaving project for even beginners to create these 3D woven ornaments. The Carolina Snowflake pattern was developed by basket maker Billie Ruth Sudduth and was hung in the White House. Using plain and dyed reed, you will get to make both a large and small snowflake. Ideal for ages 14+.
Please Note: You will need to bring 25-30 clips (clothes pins, bulldog clips, alligator clips etc.) to this class. 

Instructor: Dr. Clare Walker, Master Naturalist
Sunday, December 14th
2:00 – 5:00PM
Cost: $30/participant
Advance registration encouraged – event will be cancelled if minimum not met.

*INTRO TO WATERCOLOR PAINTING
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, an animal; anything you like. You’re set up for success with MICA-trained artist, Brittany Roger. All supplies provided. Paper will be 8×10. Participants are welcome to bring their own supplies. Ideal for ages 7+ (children must be accompanied by an adult). 

Instructor: Brittany Roger, Manager of School Programs
Saturday, January 24th
1:00 – 3:00PM
Cost: $20/participant
Advance registration encouraged – event will be cancelled if minimum not met.

*SIP & PAINT WITH IRVINE STAFF 
Join Irvine artists for winter-themed Sip & Paint night!  We’ll walk you through the process of painting a winter landscape while enjoying cozy vibes, snacks, and drinks. Irvine will provide all art materials, charcuterie, and a mocktail. BYOB for wine or other beverages. This program is ideal for ages 16+. 

Instructor: Brittany Roger, Manager of School Programs and Rebecca Sparks, Manager of Volunteer Services 
Thursday, February 5th
6:00 – 8:00PM
Cost: $15/participant
Advance registration encouraged – event will be cancelled if minimum not met.

*MAKE & TAKE: WOVEN WILLOW HEART
Celebrate Valentine’s by creating a stunning 3D woven willow heart. Dr. Clare Walker will guide you as you as first construct a heart-shaped frame and then randomly weave willow rods through the structure to fill it in. The technique is beginner-friendly as there’s no “right or wrong” way to weave, allowing for an organic, natural look – and a relaxing afternoon as we enjoy some linden love tea and chocolates. As time allows we will make some smaller hearts to explore other weaving techniques.  Working with willow takes some hand strength but the random weave is more forgiving than other weaving techniques.
Attend this class alone or with a friend — couples working together may make 2 smaller hearts–and will be able to join the class for $80.00 together. This program is ideal for adults.

Instructor: Dr. Clare Walker, Master Naturalist
Saturday, February 14th
1:30 – 3:00PM
Cost: $45/participant
Advance registration encouraged – event will be cancelled if minimum not met.

*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.

*EN PLEIN AIR PAINTING
Paint Irvine’s best view with our *new* outdoor painting workshop. We’ll set up easels, canvases, brushes, and paints at the top of the meadow to observe, capture and enjoy the transition to spring. You’re set up for success with MICA-trained artist, Brittany Roger. All supplies provided. Canvases will be 8×10. Participants are welcome to bring their own supplies. This program is ideal for ages 12+.

Instructor: Brittany Roger, Manager of School Programs
Saturday, March 14th
11:00AM – 1:00PM
Cost: $25/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.

*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 WINTER CAMPFIRE
Warm up by the fire and enjoy roasting marshmallows, hot cocoa, an animal encounter, and hands-on activities as we investigate how different types of animals handle the chilly winter weather. All ages are welcome.

Instructor: Ash Miller, Environmental Educator & Animal Care Coordinator
Friday, January 16th
5:30 – 7:00PM
Cost: $5/participant
Advance registration encouraged – event will be cancelled if minimum not met.

*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

*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
Sunday, February 8th, 1:00-2:30PM
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**
Cost: $8 (children under 3 are free)
Limited space available, pre-registration encouraged. PURCHASE TICKETS HERE 

*Member discounts apply (Pacesetter and above)

*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

*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.

*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

*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.

*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.

 

Health and wellness Programs 

*NEW YEAR MEDITATION HIKE & INTENTION SETTING
Start the New Year with a peaceful, family-friendly afternoon on the trails. Participants of all ages are invited to join us for a quiet, mindful hike through Irvine’s winter landscape—an opportunity to slow down after the holiday rush and step into the year with clarity and calm. After the hike, families will take part in a simple intention-setting activity using natural pine cones, adding their hopes and goals for the year ahead. We’ll wrap up the afternoon gathered around a cozy campfire with warm drinks, s’mores, and time to connect as we welcome fresh beginnings together. This grounding, restorative experience is a beautiful way for families to start the year with purpose. All ages are welcome. 

Instructor: Katt Richie, Environmental Educator
Sunday, January 11th
1:00 – 4:00PM
Cost: $10/participant
Advance registration encouraged – event will be cancelled if minimum not met.

*MAKE & TAKE: HERBAL WORKSHOP FOR WINTER WELLNESS
Dr. Clare Walker will lead this winter workshop and will guide you step-by-step to make simple traditional herbal remedies to boost immunity and care for the symptoms of cold season. Students will leave with their own 4oz jar samples to take home and the knowledge and recipes needed to make more.

Ideal for adults. No previous experience with plants necessary; this class is appropriate for beginner herbal students.
You’ll be making:
*Winter Cold & Flu Syrup with Elderberry and other herbs
* Cough Be Gone Honey Oyamel
* Winter Defense Herbal Tea Blend (or select custom blend of herbs after learning about the medicinal properties of each)

Presenter: Dr. Clare Walker, Master Naturalist
Sunday, January 25th
1:30 – 4:00PM
Cost: $35/participant
Advance registration encouraged – event will be cancelled if minimum not met.

*GALENTINE’S SIP & HERBAL PAMPER
Dr. Clare Walker will lead this evening of herbal pampering! Celebrate Galentine’s Day with a little self-nurturing and fun. During this event we will be making (and sampling) a variety of herbal skin treats while enjoying some wine, cocktails/mocktails and edible treats. We will start with a gentle herbal hand soak, then apply a natural hand mask and relax while your hands are wrapped in a warm towel. Finally finish with silky smooth hands by applying the rich calendula butter we make in class. Price includes a handout with recipes and a jar of all natural herbal hand cream to take home. This program is ideal for adults.

Instructor: Dr. Clare Walker, Master Naturalist
Thursday, February 12th
7:00 – 9:00PM
Cost: $45/participant
Advance registration encouraged – event will be cancelled if minimum not met.