Click on the each program title to register. Programs with an (*) are eligible for a member discount (Pacesetters and above). Advance registration encouraged – events may be cancelled if minimums are not met.
Art in Nature Programs
*DREAM CATCHER WORKSHOP
Have you always wanted to know how to make a dream catcher? Well here is your chance! Learn the art of weaving and create a 7-7 1/2 dream catcher. Hoops, beads, and feathers are provided. Participants are encouraged to bring their own personal embellishments they’d like to incorporate. Dream catchers are not only beautiful, but can also be healing, meditative, and give rise to a hidden artistic side you never knew you had! This event is ideal for adults and children ages 12+
Instructor: Michelle Moreau, founder of Circle Of Dawn
Sunday, January 19th, 1:00 – 4:00PM
Cost: $40/individual
Advance registration encouraged.
*ANIMAL ART: LOVE BUGS
From the Luna Moth to the Bumblebee, Maryland’s smallest animals can sometimes bring the biggest colors. Join Irvine naturalist Brittany (a MICA-trained artist!) and a collection of colorful insects for an evening of painting. Each artist will get to paint an insect on a small mirror to bring home. Supplies provided.
Instructors: Brittany Roger, Irvine Environmental Educator and MICA-trained artist
Friday, February 14th
6:00 – 8:00PM
Cost: $25/individual
Advance registration encouraged – event will be cancelled if minimum not met
NATURE EXPLORATION Programs
*LUNCH & LEARN with the Animals
Come share your lunch hour with Irvine’s animal friends! During this animal-ambassador-themed Lunch & Learn you will have a chance to gain further understanding about the many inspiring and amazing animals that call Irvine home!
Join Irvine Naturalists for a delightful midday repeat followed by a presentation highlighting the fascinating characteristics of a variety of species- whether it be an owl’s enhanced senses sight and hearing, or a box turtle’s extended longevity, our Irvine Naturalists’ will brighten your day with their insight and knowledge of the wonderful world of animals that we share our day to day with here at Irvine.
Presenters: Irvine Naturalists
Tuesday, January 28th
12:00PM – 1:30PM
Cost: $30/members; $40/non-members
*Discount for Pacesetter members and above.
IRVINE’S LUNCH & LEARN SERIES IS SPONSORED BY WEGMANS. WE ARE GRATEFUL FOR THEIR SUPPORT.
*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 their 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:
Saturday, February 15th, 10:00-11:30AM
Saturday, February 15th, 1:00-2:30PM
Sunday, February 23rd, 10:30AM-11:30AM
Sunday, February 23rd, 1:00-2:30PM
Saturday, March 1st, 9:00-11:30AM **MEMBERS ONLY Pancake Breakfast**
Cost: $8 (children under 3 are free)
Limited space, pre-registration encouraged.
*ANIMALS IN WINTER
Warm up by the fire and enjoy s’mores, hot chocolate, an animal encounter, and hands-on activities as we investigate how different types of animals handle the chilly winter weather. This event is ideal for children ages 6+
Instructor: Ash Miller, Irvine Naturalist and Educator
Friday, January 31st, 5:00 – 7:00PM
Cost: $8/individual
Advance registration encouraged.
Health and wellness Programs
*BEGINNER’S YOGA AND MINDFULNESS HIKE
Start your new year off with a tranquil morning of beginner’s-level yoga followed by a mindfulness like in nature engaging your senses. We will learn simple techniques to slow down and return to the present moment no matter where you are. Tea will be available to take on the hike. This event is ideal for ages 16+
Instructors: Mallory Mlynarek, Animal Care Manager and Environmental Educator
Sunday, January 12th
10:00AM – 12:00PM
Cost: $12/participant
Advanced registration is encouraged.
QIGONG AND SOUND IMMERSION WORKSHOP
In the first half of this workshop, participants will delve into the ancient practice of Qigong engaging in moving meditations that emphasize deep breathing, opening energy pathways, and fostering a profound mind-body connection. In the second part, participants will relax deeply on their mats immersing themselves in the transformative vibrations and resonant frequencies and tones of singing bowls, drums, and chimes. Together, the practices of Qigong and the auditory journey of Sound Immersion will rejuvenate energy balance, reduce stress, and create harmony within the body, mind, and spirit. This event is ideal for ages 18+. No prior experience needed. All are welcome.
Instructor: Mary Pinkard, NQA Level II Instructor
Sunday, March 2nd
9:30 – 10:45AM
Cost: $40/participant
Advance registration encouraged. Walkups welcome.
QIGONG FUSION
Join us for a rejuvenating session of Qigong flow, followed by practical self-massage techniques and meditation. This class is designed to help you release tension, energize your body, and prepare for the spring season by focusing on your muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Please bring a mat for the second half of the class or feel free to use a chair that will be provided. Whether you’re looking to improve flexibility, enhance energy flow, or find relaxation, this session will support your mind and body for the season ahead. This event is ideal for ages 18+. No prior experience needed. All are welcome.
Instructor: Michelle Tsonis, GFI
Sunday, April 6th
9:30 – 10:45AM
Cost: $25/participant
Advance registration encouraged. Walkups welcome.
WORLD TAI CHI DAY 6TH ANNIVERSARY
“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 and 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, and Michele Tsonis,GFI
Saturday, April 26th
9:30 – 10:30AM
Cost: $15/participant
Advanced registration encouraged. Walkups welcome.
