Download the May 2025 EcoEvents Calendar
Friday, May 2nd, 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM – Game Night – Are you ready to learn a new game, or are you interested in sharing a much-beloved board game with others? Drop into the building for an evening of tabletop gaming fun! Borrow a nature-themed game from our game library or bring your favorite game from home. Meet new people and try something new. Role-playing games such as Dungeons and Dragons are welcome too. We only ask that all content and conversations remain family-friendly. Program suitable for all ages. Reservations not required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/game-night-at-the-nest-vqbthph8. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Saturday, May 3rd, 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM & 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Youth Archery – Set your sights on the exciting outdoor activity of archery! This program will provide participants with basic archery instruction, familiarization with archery equipment, and instruction in shooting techniques that create successful archers. All equipment will be provided for use. Program is suitable for children ages 6 to 16. Two identical sessions are offered. Please register for only one session each month. Program is suitable for children ages 6 to 16. Program sponsored by the Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission in partnership with Manatee County. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/may-youth-archery-2025. For more information please contact [email protected]. Rye Preserve
Saturday, May 3rd, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Saturday Mornings at the NEST – Join us at the Mosaic Center for Nature, Exploration, Science, and Technology for a morning of discovery. Explore the canopy boardwalk among the banyans, climb to the top of the crow’s nest, take in breathtaking panoramic views, and make an exciting exit from the building via slide. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations are required. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Saturday, May 3rd, 8:30 PM – 10:00 PM – Starry Night Astronomy – Join us for an astronomical extravaganza! Dozens of local astronomers will be set up in the Robinson Preserve Expansion with telescopes at the ready. Be sure to bring a sense of wonder and exploration as we view the skies through high-powered telescopes. Learn how to identify heavenly bodies, and how you can stargaze at home too. Program suitable for all ages. Program sponsored by Suncoast Stargazers in partnership with Manatee County. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/robinson-astronomy. Robinson Preserve – Expansion Parking Lot
Wednesday, May 7th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Tortoise Talk – Join us for this informal program on the lawn of the NEST as we take our education tortoise out to graze! In the wild, foraging is an integral part of a gopher tortoise’s lifestyle, so we encourage it as much as possible. Stop by and say hello, get a chance to meet him up close, and ask any questions you may have. Learn all about what tortoises need to survive, how we care for our tortoise, and what efforts we can take to protect these important members of our Florida ecosystems. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations are required. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST Lawn
Saturday, May 10th, 8:00 AM – 11:30 AM – 38th Annual Jerry Hill Memorial Kids Fishing Tournament – The Jerry Hill Memorial Kids Fishing Tournament is a local Bradenton tradition encouraging children and their families to spend time together outdoors since 1987. The tournament is catch and release. Young anglers of ages 5-14 years old and, all skill levels and experiences are welcomed. Join us for a fun outdoor experience at Tom Bennett Park! Prizes awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in each age category. Program appropriate for children between 5-14 years of age and their families Program sponsored by Manatee Fish & Game Association in partnership with Manatee County. All participants must have a parent or guardian on site to participate. Bait will be provided for use during the tournament. Anglers must bring their own rods. Loaner rods are available upon request on a limited quantity. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/38th-annual-jerry-hill-memorial-kids-fishing-tournament-tickets-1203664295309. For more information please contact [email protected]. Tom Bennett Park
Saturday, May 10th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Saturday Mornings at the NEST – Join us at the Mosaic Center for Nature, Exploration, Science, and Technology for a morning of discovery. Explore the canopy boardwalk among the banyans, climb to the top of the crow’s nest, take in breathtaking panoramic views, and make an exciting exit from the building via slide. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations are required. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Monday, May 12th, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM – VolunTeens - Trail Clean-up – Ready to make a difference and spend some time outdoors while collecting volunteer service hours? Join the VolunTeens for a fun and meaningful cleanup at Robinson Preserve along the mouth of the Manatee River. Program suitable for ages 14-18. Long-sleeved lightweight clothing, hat, closed-toe shoes, sunglasses and sunscreen are recommended. Clean-up supplies, ice water and other materials will be provided. Please bring a water bottle Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/volunteens-trail-clean-up. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve
Monday, May 12th, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM – Sunset Tai Chi at the NEST – Join us for this monthly class at the NEST! At sunset on the second Monday of the month, Dr. Brian Nell, a certified Tai Chi instructor, will lead the group through the gentle movements of Tai Chi. This is a great way to shake off the stressful work week. Improve your balance, loosen your joints, and improve flexibility as you relax and breathe. This class is perfect for beginners and will include an exploration of several different styles of Tai Chi and Qigong. This class is held rain or shine. Program suitable for adults. Program sponsored by Cypress Pillar Healing Arts in partnership with Manatee County. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/robinson-tai-chi. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST Lawn
Tuesday, May 13th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Homeschool Science Club: Birding 101 – Join us for an exciting hands-on adventure where you’ll discover the incredible world of birds! Through interactive activities, guided bird walks, and engaging crafts, you’ll learn how to identify different species, understand their behaviors, and explore the vital role they play in our ecosystems. Listen to their calls, observe their flight patterns, and uncover the secrets of birdwatching! Program recommended for students ages 7-13. Homeschool Science Club explores scientific and natural concepts through games, crafts, and activities encouraging students to be active outdoors. Guardians are responsible for identifying the learning maturity of their child. Please note the location of this session. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/homeschool-science-club-birding-101. For more information please contact [email protected]. Conservatory Park – Large Pavilion #1
Wednesday, May 14th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Library Learning: "Fin"tastic Sharks and Rays – Can a shark smell a drop of blood a mile away? Join us to discover the superpowers of cartilaginous fish, a program honoring sharks and rays. Dive into sharks' swimming skills, explore stealthy hunting styles, and so much more. Using movement, experiments, and games your young learners will discover how "fin"tastic carnivorous fish are! Program suitable for ages 4- 12 year olds. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://manateelibrary.libcal.com/event/14270020. For more information please contact [email protected]. Rocky Bluff Library
Wednesday, May 14th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Tortoise Talk – Join us for this informal program on the lawn of the NEST as we take our education tortoise out to graze! In the wild, foraging is an integral part of a gopher tortoise’s lifestyle, so we encourage it as much as possible. Stop by and say hello, get a chance to meet him up close, and ask any questions you may have. Learn all about what tortoises need to survive, how we care for our tortoise, and what efforts we can take to protect these important members of our Florida ecosystems. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations are required. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST Lawn
Thursday, May 15th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Homeschool Science Club: Freshwater Dip Net – Get your feet wet and explore the shore as we dip our nets in the water. Take a closer look at sea or freshwater creatures in their natural environment! Who eats who and why are they here? We’ll answer these questions and more! Program recommended for students ages 7-13 Homeschool Science Club explores scientific and natural concepts through games, crafts, and activities encouraging students to be active outdoors. Guardians are responsible for identifying the learning maturity of their child. Please note the location of this session. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/ryedipnet2025. For more information please contact [email protected]. Rye Preserve – Pavilion
Friday, May 16th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Tide Trekker - Paddle Clean-up – Looking to combine your love of the outdoors with a meaningful way to give back? Come paddle with the Tide Trekkers as we kayak along the beautiful shoreline of Emerson Point Preserve for a special cleanup event! Program suitable for ages 16 and older who can meet the County's minimum eligibility requirements. Long-sleeved lightweight clothing, hat, closed-toe shoes, sunglasses and sunscreen are recommended. Clean-up supplies, ice water and other materials will be provided. Please bring a water bottle Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/tide-trekker-paddle-clean-up. For more information please contact [email protected]. Emerson Point Preserve
Friday, May 16th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Homeschool Science Club: Saltwater Dip Net – Get your feet wet and explore the shore as we dip our nets in the water. Take a closer look at sea or freshwater creatures in their natural environment! Who eats who and why are they here? We’ll answer these questions and more! Program recommended for students ages 7-13 Homeschool Science Club explores scientific and natural concepts through games, crafts, and activities encouraging students to be active outdoors. Guardians are responsible for identifying the learning maturity of their child. Please note the location of this session. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/dipnet2025. For more information please contact [email protected]. Emerson Point Preserve – Large Pavilion #1
Saturday, May 17th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Saturday Mornings at the NEST – Join us at the Mosaic Center for Nature, Exploration, Science, and Technology for a morning of discovery. Explore the canopy boardwalk among the banyans, climb to the top of the crow’s nest, take in breathtaking panoramic views, and make an exciting exit from the building via slide. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations are required. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Tuesday, May 20th, 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM – FrogWatch Public: Emerson Point Preserve – Come join us for frog monitoring at our local preserves and discover the frogs that can be found in the county! Be a part of our new citizen science program and learn how to identify and record local species as we contribute data to the national FrogWatch USA database. We will talk about frog monitoring then split into groups and monitor different ponds for frog calls! Program recommended for 8 years and older Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/frogwatch-public-perico-preserve-ndmw4qy6. For more information please contact [email protected]. Emerson Point Preserve
Wednesday, May 21st, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Tortoise Talk – Join us for this informal program on the lawn of the NEST as we take our education tortoise out to graze! In the wild, foraging is an integral part of a gopher tortoise’s lifestyle, so we encourage it as much as possible. Stop by and say hello, get a chance to meet him up close, and ask any questions you may have. Learn all about what tortoises need to survive, how we care for our tortoise, and what efforts we can take to protect these important members of our Florida ecosystems. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations are required. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST Lawn
Thursday, May 22nd, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Robinson Preserve Tower Paddle – Get on the water and learn about the history of Robinson Preserve. Climb to the top of the observation tower to get a fantastic view of the landscape and wildlife that Florida has to offer. Program suitable for ages 16 and older who can meet the County's minimum eligibility requirements. This is a beginner paddle appropriate for first time paddlers. Limited number of single kayaks available on a first come, first served basis. Participants are responsible for helping unload and load kayaks in and out of the water. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/tower-paddle. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – North Entrance Kayak Launch
Thursday, May 22nd, 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM – FrogWatch Public: Perico Preserve – Come join us for frog monitoring at our local preserves and discover the frogs that can be found in the county! Be a part of our new citizen science program and learn how to identify and record local species as we contribute data to the national FrogWatch USA database. We will talk about frog monitoring then split into groups and monitor different ponds for frog calls! Program recommended for 8 years and older Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/frogwatch-public-emerson-pointe-preserve-a4pglgw7. For more information please contact [email protected]. Perico Preserve – Parking Lot
Friday, May 23rd, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM – HomeSchool BioLab: Zoom in! – Come along a journey into the microscopic world, revealing the hidden details of nature. Learn how to properly use a microscope, prepare high-quality slides, and explore samples like pollen, plant cells, and tiny aquatic organisms. Discover the science behind magnification and identify fascinating specimens invisible to the naked eye. Get ready to zoom in and uncover the incredible structures that make up the world around us! Program recommended for 10-15 year olds. Homeschool Bio Lab is an advanced course where we explore higher scientific concepts and the scientific method through dissections, chemistry, and biology experiments. No refunds available. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://parks.mymanatee.org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/search.html?interfaceparameter=WebTrac_NaturalResources&primarycode=110007. For more information please contact [email protected]. Emerson Point Preserve – Classroom
Saturday, May 24th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Saturday Mornings at the NEST – Join us at the Mosaic Center for Nature, Exploration, Science, and Technology for a morning of discovery. Explore the canopy boardwalk among the banyans, climb to the top of the crow’s nest, take in breathtaking panoramic views, and make an exciting exit from the building via slide. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations are required. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Thursday, May 29th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Green Explorers: Searching with Snorkels – Snorkel into the shallow sea grass and mangrove roots to discover wild creatures below the water’s surface. New snorkelers and kids who have snorkeled before will delight in the experience of Neal Preserves Cove. Nets will be available to scoop up animals for closer examination. Green Explorers is a low-structured, highly social, and experienced-based activity. Program suitable for all ages recommended for ages 6-12 year olds. All participants must be able to swim. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/green-explorers-searching-with-snorkels-lrpsm4tt. For more information please contact [email protected]. Neal Preserve
Friday, May 30th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Nature Tale: Bounty of Bugs – Does your kiddo enjoy stories and nature? Join us at Conservatory Park in Nature Tales. Meet monthly at Conservatory Park for an interactive story and activities. This month, we will discover the insects that crawl, swim, fly and in leap in your Florida backyard. Program suitable for ages 8 and under. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/nature-tales-bounty-of-bugs. For more information please contact [email protected]. Conservatory Park
Saturday, May 31st, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Saturday Mornings at the NEST – Join us at the Mosaic Center for Nature, Exploration, Science, and Technology for a morning of discovery. Explore the canopy boardwalk among the banyans, climb to the top of the crow’s nest, take in breathtaking panoramic views, and make an exciting exit from the building via slide. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations are required. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST