Download the November 2025 EcoEvents Calendar
Saturday, Nov 1st, 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, Nov 1st, 7:00 PM – 9:00 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
Tuesday, Nov 4th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Moody Branch Bioblitz – Join us on a quest to document as many plant species as possible throughout Mantee County! We will use the user-friendly iNaturalist app to document plant species on this survey of Moody Branch Wildlife and Environmental Area. The observations and data we record will help to better inform decisions about the management and conservation of our natural resources. Program suitable for ages 10 and up. Dress for a day in the sun and be prepared to walk up to two miles on uneven terrain, including areas that are off trail. Bring plenty of drinking water and a cell phone or camera. Restrooms are not available at this location. Please use the restroom before you arrive. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/moody-branch-bioblitz. For more information please contact [email protected]. Moody Branch Preserve
Wednesday, Nov 5th, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM – Soar in 4 Family Night – Soar in 4 occurs the first Wednesday of each month in downtown Bradenton. Families visit demonstration tables facilitated by Manatee County teachers, non-profit organizations, and volunteers to learn how to use various materials to support the ‘spotlight book,’ as well as incorporate take-home items to continue to play, create, learn, and explore at home together. These monthly events provide families with the resources and information to become their child’s best ‘first teacher’ at home. All activities are aligned to classroom learning. Program suitable for children and their families. Program sponsored by Soar in 4 in partnership with Manatee County. No reservations required. For more information please visit www.soarin4.org. The Bishop Museum
Thursday, Nov 6th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Indigenous Heritage Tour – Join us for a guided walk-through Neal Preserve as we explore the history of the indigenous people in the area. We'll take a closer look at the reconstructed burial mounds and climb the observation tower for a scenic view of this coastal preserve. Program suitable for ages 10 and older. This a short hike of less than a mile, however, the observation tower does have stairs. There are no restrooms on site, only portable toilet. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/indigenous-heritage-tour-neal. For more information please contact [email protected]. Neal Preserve – Pavilion
Thursday, Nov 6th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Green Explorers: Creating Cordage – Long before stores, supplies came from nature and a person’s ingenuity. Let us discover the who, what, where, and why of cordage and then fabricate some fibers of our own. Using hands-on discovery and the participants' creativity, homeschoolers will have the opportunity to engage with nature. Green Explorers is a low-structured, highly social, and experience-based activity. Program suitable for age 5- 12 year olds. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/green-explorers-crafting-cordage. For more information please contact [email protected]. Moody Branch
Friday, Nov 7th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Indigenous Heritage Tour – Take a tour of the mounds left by the indigenous people who inhabited the coasts of Florida in the past. Look closer at the skills and tools required to live in old Florida. Experience the beautiful coastal scenery of the estuary. Program suitable for ages 10 and older. This is a short hike of about a mile with about 6 stair steps and an inclined ramp up the largest mound. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/indigenous-heritage-tour-emerson. For more information please contact [email protected]. Emerson Point Preserve – Meet in front of restrooms
Friday, Nov 7th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Friday Morning Yoga at the NEST – Start your weekend with intention and ease. Join us for a gentle, alignment-based Hatha yoga class designed to lengthen and strengthen the body while cultivating awareness through mindful movement and breath. This slow-flow session is beginner-friendly and open to all levels. Program suitable for adults. Please bring mats, towels, and water. Other props are provided by the instructor. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/robinson-yoga. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Friday, Nov 7th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Homeschool Science Club: Tall Tall Trees – Did you know trees can tell time? Trees provide us with countless benefits—from producing oxygen to supplying materials like paper—but they also hold fascinating stories within their rings! Discover how tree rings reveal the passage of time and even clues about past climate conditions. Then, take a guided walk through the preserve to explore and identify a variety of unique tree species. Program suitable for 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. Don't forget to register for the waitlist if at capacity! Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/homeschool-science-club-tall-tall-trees-conservatory-park. For more information please contact [email protected]. Conservatory Park – Large Pavilion
Friday, Nov 7th, 10:30 AM – 1:00 PM – Mixon in Bloom Community Day – Join us at Mixon in Bloom Community Day to celebrate Mixon Farms’ new chapter with Manatee County! Enjoy music, food, and light beautification projects. Program suitable for all ages. Wear comfortable, old clothes that may get dirty- and be ready to have fun! Reservation are required To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/mixon-in-bloom-community-day. For more information please contact [email protected]. Mixon Fruit Farms – Parking lot
Saturday, Nov 8th, 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM – Driving Duette Tour: Dry Prairies – Discover the 21,000 acres of Duette Preserve with a naturalist and park ranger as your guide, you will learn about the history of the Preserve, explore Florida's natural ecosystems, and maybe even spot a scrub jay! This is a caravan-style tour, where participants will drive their own vehicles in a guided group, stopping at key points of interest for short interpretive hikes. Program suitable for all ages. Program sponsored by Manatee Fish and Game Association in partnership with Manatee County. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/manatee-fish-game/driving-duette-tour-dry-prairies. For more information please call (941) 447-9268. Duette Preserve – Ranger Station
Saturday, Nov 8th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Butterfly Count at Moody Branch Preserve – Discover Moody Branch Preserve during our Citizen Science Butterfly Count on Saturday, November 8th, 2025, from 9 AM-12 PM - an inland gem that protects a unique and highly diverse ecosystem of Florida scrub and pine flatwoods. Meet at Moody Branch at 9 AM or ride with us from Robinson Preserve (South Parking Lot) at 7:30 AM - van seats are limited to 15. No experience needed. Just bring your curiosity, love of nature, and optional binoculars or camera! We’ll provide ID guides and informational materials so you can explore, learn, and help protect Florida’s butterflies. Program suitable for all ages. Reservation are required To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/butterfly-count-at-moody-branch-preserve. For more information please contact [email protected]. Moody Branch Preserve
Saturday, Nov 8th, 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
Sunday, Nov 9th, 4:30 PM – 12:00 AM – Sunset Poetry Walk with Viviana Morena – Experience the beauty of nature and language intertwining as the sun sets over the preserve. Join local poet Viviana Morena for an evening poetry walk that celebrates the rhythm of the natural world. As you stroll along scenic trails, pause to listen and reflect as Viviana shares original works inspired by the landscape, light, and life around us. Let the golden hour spark your imagination and leave you with a renewed appreciation for both art and nature. Program suitable for adults. No Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/sunset-poetry-walk. For more information please contact [email protected]. Neal Preserve – Neal Pavillion
Monday, Nov 10th, 5:30 PM – 6:30 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
Wednesday, Nov 12th, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM – Soar Lab – Our partners at Soar in 4 just opened an incredible interactive museum for the youngsters in your life, called the Soar Lab. Inside is a room devoted to building complete with a giant Light Brite and Legos. A tinker room filled with kid-friendly tools and a gigantic art room packed with easels, puppets, and a stage. Open five days a week, check out soarin4.org for more detailed information. One Wednesday a month, our education staff will join the museum for some fun hands-on nature play. The theme this quarter, is building. Program suitable for preschool age children and below. Program sponsored by Soar in 4 in partnership with Manatee County. While the Soar Lab is free for most families, please consult the soarin4.org/soar-lab/ website for more information. No reservations are required. Soar Lab
Wednesday, Nov 12th, 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, Nov 13th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – TreeTots: Bumpy, Fuzzy, & Smooth – Bumpy bark, smooth shell, and a fuzzy leaf texture is everywhere. Through songs, games and activities, discover nature’s textures in your Florida backyard. TreeTots is an interactive program that uses song, action, and play to encourage the youngest family members to explore nature. Program suitable for ages 3 and under. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/treetots-bumpy-fuzzy-and-smooth. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Friday, Nov 14th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Tall Tail Tribe: Whoos Eating at my table? – When you think of Thanksgiving, many people think of the meal. But humans are not the only ones who eat; our animal friends do too. Some animals eat meat, some eat plants, and others eat both! Through games, songs and crafts, we will discover what animals eat. Program suitable for preschool age children. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/tall-tail-tribe-who-s-at-my-table. For more information please contact [email protected]. Emerson Point Preserve – Classroom Pavilion
Friday, Nov 14th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Friday Morning Yoga at the NEST – Start your weekend with intention and ease. Join us for a gentle, alignment-based Hatha yoga class designed to lengthen and strengthen the body while cultivating awareness through mindful movement and breath. This slow-flow session is beginner-friendly and open to all levels. Program suitable for adults. Please bring mats, towels, and water. Other props are provided by the instructor. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/robinson-yoga. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Saturday, Nov 15th, 8:00 AM – 11:30 AM – Oyster Reef Restoration at Robinson Preserve – Join us in making a difference for local wildlife and the health of our waterways! This volunteer event will focus on building up oyster reefs in one of Robinson Preserve’s lagoons. These restored oyster beds will create essential foraging habitat for the American oystercatcher, a striking shorebird listed as a state-designated threatened species. Program suitable for ages 13 + under 16 must be accompanied by and adult Reservation are required To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/oyster-reef-restoration-at-robinson-preserve-ydgqpbvl. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Valentine House Parking Lot
Saturday, Nov 15th, 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
Sunday, Nov 16th, 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM – VolunTeens - Coquina Beach Clean-up – Join our VolunTeens for a beach cleanup on Nov 16, 8–10 AM! Help protect wildlife and keep our shores beautiful while earning volunteer hours. Program suitable for all ages. We will meet near the Natural Resources truck in the parking lot near the cafe area to get signed in and gather our supplies. Please bring a reusable water bottle. Ice water and all supplies will be provided. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/volunteens-coquina-beach-clean-up. For more information please contact [email protected]. Coquina Beach
Tuesday, Nov 18th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Tide Trekker - Tern Trail shoreline clean-up at Robinson Preserve – Help keep Robinson Preserve beautiful! Join Tide Trekkers on 11/18, 9 AM - 12 PM, to clean the Tern Trail shoreline along the bay. Program suitable for all ages. We will meet in the North Parking Lot near the Valentine House. Please bring a reusable water bottle. Ice water and all supplies will be provided. Reservation are required To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/tide-trekker-tern-trail-shoreline-clean-up-at-robinson-preserve. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve North Entrance
Wednesday, Nov 19th, 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
Wednesday, Nov 19th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Wild Florida 101: Edible Plants of Fall – Get ready for an incredibly edible introduction to Florida’s native plants. Join Naturalist Aedan with a delicious sampling of edible plants to explore nature’s bounty as the seasons change. Learn all about different delicacies that grow in Manatee County’s preserves and throughout Florida too. Join us for a short hike to explore various native plants and their uses, then sit with us at the Chef’s Table to sample dishes made with a variety of native ingredients. Program suitable for adults. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/wf101-edible-plants-of-fall. For more information please contact [email protected]. Emerson Point Preserve – Emerson Classroom
Thursday, Nov 20th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Homeschool Science Club: Walking in the Past – Come walk in history’s footsteps as we explore the Indigenous cultures that inhabited the preserves. Learn all about the skills practiced by Florida’s early inhabitants. Measure the distance you can throw a spear with an atlatl, explore ancient canoe carving practices, and practice pioneer games. 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. Don't forget to register for the waitlist if at capacity! Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/homeschool-science-club-walking-in-the-past-rye. For more information please contact [email protected]. Rye Preserve – Pavilion
Friday, Nov 21st, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Guided Walk at Crooked River Preserve – Join Big Waters Land Trust for a naturalist-guided leisurely walk through Manatee County's newest conservation properties at Crooked River Preserve. Participants will explore the preserve at a leisurely pace, stopping to observe and identify plants and animals as you walk. Learn how land managers, communities, and conservationists are working to protect natural areas like Crooked River Preserve in southwest Florida. Program suitable for all ages. Participants under 16 must attend with a parent or guardian. Participants should bring a water bottle and wear clothing appropriate for the weather. We recommend sun protection, bug spray, and closed-toed shoes: no flip flops. Please note there are no restrooms or water fountains on site. It is currently open for walk-through access only. Parking is available along the shoulder of Lyntnor Road. This program is provided in partnership with the Manatee County Natural Resources Department. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1549646377029. For more information please contact [email protected]. Crooked River Preserve – 10405 25th Street East, Parrish, FL 34219
Friday, Nov 21st, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Nature Tales: Family Ties Animal Edition – 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, in honor of Thanksgiving, the holiday that brings families together, we will discover animal families that come in all shapes and sizes! Program suitable for 8 year-olds and younger. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/nature-tales-family-ties-animal-edition. For more information please contact [email protected]. Conservatory Park – Playground Pavilion
Friday, Nov 21st, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Friday Morning Yoga at the NEST – Start your weekend with intention and ease. Join us for a gentle, alignment-based Hatha yoga class designed to lengthen and strengthen the body while cultivating awareness through mindful movement and breath. This slow-flow session is beginner-friendly and open to all levels. Program suitable for adults. Please bring mats, towels, and water. Other props are provided by the instructor. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/robinson-yoga. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Friday, Nov 21st, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Homeschool Biolab: Timeline of a Tree – Discover the Story Within the Rings. Every tree has a story to tell—if you know how to read it! Explore how tree rings reveal a tree’s age and even clues about past climate conditions. Learn about tree anatomy through hands-on modeling, and put your observation and deduction skills to the test as we investigate the fascinating trees of Florida’s forests. Program suitable for ages 10-15 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. Reservation 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 – Emerson Classroom
Friday, Nov 21st, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Homeschool Science Club: Walking in the Past – Come walk in history’s footsteps as we explore the Indigenous cultures that inhabited the preserves. Learn all about the skills practiced by Florida’s early inhabitants. Measure the distance you can throw a spear with an atlatl, explore ancient canoe carving practices, and practice pioneer games. 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. Don't forget to register for the waitlist if at capacity! Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/homeschool-science-club-walking-in-the-past-emerson. For more information please contact [email protected]. Emerson Point Preserve – Large Pavilion #1
Friday, Nov 21st, 6:00 PM – 8:00 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. No reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/game-night-at-the-nest-793xw5h5. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Saturday, Nov 22nd, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – ReptiFest 2025 – Join us for the 2nd Annual ReptiFest at the NEST! Celebrate the incredible world of reptiles and discover why these cold-blooded creatures play such an important role in our ecosystems. Learn what to do if you encounter a gopher tortoise, meet live reptiles up close, and even explore a model gopher tortoise burrow! Inside the NEST, enjoy hands-on, reptile-themed activities—puzzles, puppets, crafts, and more. Don’t miss this fun-filled, family-friendly event that’s sure to make you love reptiles even more! Program suitable for all ages. No Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/reptifest-2025. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Tuesday, Nov 25th, 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM – Saltwater Fishing Clinic – Join us for a special saltwater fishing clinic! Tie an improved clinch knot, practice your fish identification skills, and learn the basics of catch and release fishing in Florida. Get a chance to use our fishing equipment and cast your line into the waters of Robinson Preserve to see what we can catch! Program suitable for all ages. Meet me at the NEST Pavilion. Park around the roundabout, head towards the next, stop before the stairs and turn right onto the shell trail, continue until the waterfront and turn right to see the pavilion! Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/saltwater-fishing-clinic. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – NEST Pavilion
Wednesday, Nov 26th, 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, Nov 29th, 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, Nov 29th, 6:00 PM – 8:00 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