Nature Fall Festival provides family fun in Lincoln
The festival featured various workshops for people of all ages. | PC: Zach Morrison
A few weeks ago on Oct. 7, the city of Lincoln’s nature department held its second annual Nature Fall Festival held at Pioneers Park, which is just a short twenty minute drive from Union’s campus. It drew a large number of people ranging from all ages, including children, their parents and college students. The night was put together by a group called Friends of Pioneer Parks Nature Center.
“The main goal for the night is to provide a family friendly, fun, nature themed event that's also free to low cost,” comments Lincoln Parks and Recreation Nature coordinator Jamie Kelley. Kelley and her team spent about three months getting everything ready for the event and it turned out to be a great success, from the number of activities and presentations, to the different types of organizations and people who attended.
Many volunteer and partner organizations made the night possible, including the Nebraska Wildlife Federation, the UNL Wildlife Club, Nebraska Game and Parks, Lincoln Gem and Mineral Club and the Natural Science Illustrators Guild. Ice cream truck vendors also added to the fun atmosphere.
Along with the food, music and different educational nature clubs present, hayrack rides, live animal presentations, campfire stories, games and crafts were also available for young kids and families.
One mother who has been bringing her children to the event for two years said, “They absolutely love the games and activities, and I love that it’s free and educational for them.”
Although the event wasn't advertised on campus, sophomore international relations major George Bakina was able to accompany me. He shared, “I think it’s really cool how the city is able to put something this big together that people of all ages can benefit from.”
Overall the fall festival provided a fun evening with a great turnout. Lincoln Parks and Recreation holds many events throughout the year and the best way to stay notified for more information on weekly and seasonal activities is to visit their website, stop by the nature center or subscribe to their newsletter at lincoln.ne.gov/city/parks/naturecenter.
Caroline Guchu is a sophomore studying communication