Download the April 2026 EcoEvents Calendar
Wednesday, Apr 1st, 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM – Manatee Audubon Society Birding Tour: Emerson Point – Search the skies for Florida’s fabulous fliers! Our Audubon guide will lead participants on a tour through Emerson Point’s coastal hammock and mangrove habitats. Check out the “locals” as well as the migratory birds that are wintering here. Program suitable for adults. Program sponsored by Manatee County Audubon Society in partnership with Manatee County. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected] or call (941) 592-7622. Emerson Point Preserve – Ranger Station
Wednesday, Apr 1st, 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
Wednesday, Apr 1st, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM – April Fools Night at the NEST – Join us at The NEST at Robinson Preserve for a special edition of our Nature Nights series. Test your nature knowledge against our April Fools! We will tell a series of stories about strange and natural things in our world and it is up to you to guess which is real and which is just us trying to fool you. Program suitable for adults. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/april-fools2026. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Thursday, Apr 2nd, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM – Game Night at the NEST – What is more family than Board Game Night? 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. Snacks will be provided. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/april-2026-game-night-at-the-nest. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Saturday, Apr 4th, 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM – Driving Duette Tour: Spring Wildflowers – 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://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/manatee-fish-game/driving-duette-tour-spring-wildflowers-96618460. For more information please call (941) 447-9268. Duette Preserve – Ranger Station
Saturday, Apr 4th, 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
Wednesday, Apr 8th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Teen Wild Trails: Archaeo Paddle – Teens Wild Trails is an adventure club for environmentally passionate teens, ages 13-17, to explore Manatee County’s habitats and resources in partnership with Big Waters Land Trust. We will be meeting on the 2nd Wednesday mornings of select months to explore a new wild trail on the county map. Confirm your attendance to the April adventure by registering for this event page. Journey through the mangrove forests of Robinson Preserve with an Archeologist from the Florida Public Archaeology Network and discover the historical uses of the land, ecological restoration and how to spot the evidence or remains of indigenous people’s past. Program suitable for teen ages 13-17 Participants should bring a water bottle and wear comfortable clothing for paddling that may get wet. Please wear long pants and stable shoes as we will be going slightly off trail to view the evidence of a past mound. Be prepared to get wet as you enter and exit the kayak. We recommend sun protection, insect repellent, and closed-toe shoes that strap or tie to your feet; no flip-flops. We will provide kayaks, paddles, life jackets and whistles. All participants must wear a life jacket and a whistle. This is a drop-off program. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/april-archaeo-paddle. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – North Kayak Launch
Wednesday, Apr 8th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Library Learning: Bounty of Bugs – Butterflies, bees, and beetles oh my! From the food we eat to the trash we throw away, bugs make the world go round. The interactive program uses songs, action, and play to encourage the youngest family members to explore nature. Program suitable for preschool age children. No reservations are required. For more information please contact [email protected]. Braden River Library
Thursday, Apr 9th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Feather Finders: Beginner Birding for Kids – Fun, hands-on introduction to birding for young nature explorers. Participants will learn how to use binoculars, practice identifying common birds through photos and sounds, and take a short, guided walk to spot wildlife around Conservatory Park. Program suitable for ages 5-13. Reservations are required To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/feather-finders-beginner-birding-for-kids. Conservatory Park
Thursday, Apr 9th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – TreeTots: Animal Parts – Eyes, ears, nose, and legs; animals are made of different body parts. Bring your toddler out to explore the body parts many animal share. TreeTots is an interactive program that uses song, action, and play to encourage the youngest family members to explore nature. Program suitable for 3-year-old and younger. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/treetots-animal-parts. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Thursday, Apr 9th, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM – Poetry Walk with Viviana Morena – Experience the beauty of nature and language intertwining as the day comes to an end and the sunsets over the preserve. Join local poet Viviana Morena for a 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/poetry-walk-with-poet-viviana-morena. For more information please contact [email protected]. Conservatory Park – Large Pavillion
Friday, Apr 10th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Tide Trekker Shoreline Kayak Cleanup to Flamingo Cay – Paddle, explore & protect! Join our kayak cleanup along the Perico Bay shoreline to Flamingo Cay. Join us for the Tide Trekker Shoreline Kayak Cleanup to Flamingo Cay for a unique volunteer experience that combines the beauty of paddling through Perico Bay with hands-on environmental action! We'll launch from the Perico Bay Kayak Launch in Bradenton, FL, kayaking along the shoreline and collecting litter as we make our way to Flamingo Cay, where we'll spend time doing a thorough cleanup of the area before heading back. Program suitable for ages 12 and older. All kayaks and cleanup supplies are provided. Just bring yourself and your enthusiasm. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/tide-trekker-shoreline-kayak-cleanup-to-flamingo-cay. For more information please contact [email protected]. Perico Bayou Kayak Launch
Friday, Apr 10th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Friday Morning Yoga at the NEST – NEW Program! 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, Apr 10th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Tall Tail Tribe: Color Hike – Blue sky, green grass natures palette is all around. Bring your young learner to walk the trails and discover the different hues of colors found in your Florida Backyard. Program suitable for preschool age children. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/tall-tail-tribe-color-hike. For more information please contact [email protected]. Emerson Point Preserve – Classroom Pavilion
Friday, Apr 10th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Homeschool Science Club: Gopher Tortoises – Celebrate National Gopher Tortoise Day by meeting a live gopher tortoise up close and discovering why these amazing diggers are nature’s engineers! Explore a burrow, learn how it shelters hundreds of other animals, and uncover the secret world beneath your feet. Then, get hands-on and build your own burrow model in this fun and interactive class you won’t want to miss! 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-gopher-tortoise-conservatory-park. For more information please contact [email protected]. Conservatory Park – Large Pavilion
Saturday, Apr 11th, 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, Apr 11th, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM – Braden River Library Earth Day Celebration – Join us and fellow community partners for an Earth Day Celebration at the Braden River Library. Exhibitors will include Manatee County Natural Resources, Manatee County Master Gardeners and more! Program suitable for all ages. No reservations required. For more information please visit https://manateelibrary.libcal.com/event/15676427 or contact [email protected]. Braden River Library
Sunday, Apr 12th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Trail Clearing at Moody Branch Preserve – Help keep Moody Branch Preserve trails safe and accessible by clearing branches, debris, and overgrowth during this volunteer trail stewardship project. Join us at Moody Branch Preserve to help maintain and improve the preserve’s trail system. Volunteers will assist with clearing fallen branches, trimming light vegetation, and removing debris along designated trails. Trail maintenance helps keep the preserve safe and enjoyable for visitors while protecting the surrounding natural habitat. After the workday, volunteers are welcome to relax and enjoy lunch together at the preserve, so feel free to bring a packed lunch if you’d like to stay and socialize with the group. Program suitable for ages 7-13 Tools and guidance will be provided. Volunteers should wear closed-toe shoes, bring water, and dress for outdoor work. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/trail-clearing-at-moody-branch-preserve. For more information please contact [email protected]. Moody Branch Preserve
Monday, Apr 13th, 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, Apr 14th, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM – VolunTeens at Rye Preserve – Teens can earn service hours while helping create a new trail at Rye Preserve through hands-on stewardship work alongside preserve staff. VolunTeens is a volunteer program designed specifically for teens who want to earn service hours while helping care for local preserves. This event will be the third workday focused on creating a brand new trail at Rye Preserve. Teens will work alongside preserve staff to help clear and shape the new trail route through the beautiful, wooded area along the creek. Participants will follow the guidance of preserve staff who have mapped out the trail and will assist with clearing small vegetation, moving debris, and helping open this future pathway for visitors to enjoy. This is a great opportunity for teens to gain hands-on experience in land stewardship while making a lasting impact at Rye Preserve. Program suitable for teen ages 13-17 Tools and supplies will be provided. Please wear closed-toe shoes, bring water, and dress for outdoor work. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/volunteens-at-rye-preserve. For more information please contact [email protected]. Rye Preserve
Wednesday, Apr 15th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 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 nature. Program suitable for children 3rd grade and below. Program sponsored by Soar in 4 in partnership with Manatee County. No reservations are required. For more information please contact [email protected]. Soar Lab
Thursday, Apr 16th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Homeschool Science Club: Scavengers and Decomposers – In nature everything is recycled! From vultures to cockroaches, join us to learn about the creatures that help cycle the nutrients of animals and plants that have passed on. We will play games, make a craft, and take a hike in search of scavengers and decomposers on preserve trails. 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/april2026-hssc-rye. For more information please contact [email protected]. Rye Preserve – Pavilion
Friday, Apr 17th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Friday Morning Yoga at the NEST – NEW Program! 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, Apr 17th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Homeschool Science Club: Scavengers and Decomposers – In nature everything is recycled! From vultures to cockroaches, join us to learn about the creatures that help cycle the nutrients of animals and plants that have passed on. We will play games, make a craft, and take a hike in search of scavengers and decomposers on preserve trails. 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/april2026-hssc-emerson. For more information please contact [email protected]. Emerson Point Preserve – Classroom Pavilion
Saturday, Apr 18th, 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, Apr 18th, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM – FrogWatch Become a Citizen Scientist – Hop into action with FrogWatch USA and help protect our local frogs and toads! No experience needed—just a love of nature, curiosity to learn their unique calls, and a few evening visits to a nearby wetland. After training, it only takes 30 minutes once a month to make a real difference in saving these amazing amphibians! Ages 12+ Program suitable for ages 12 + As a volunteer, you’ll choose a monitoring site from a list of approved local locations and be directly involved in collecting valuable data that helps scientists understand and protect frog and toad populations. After completing this training, it only takes about 30 minutes once a month to contribute meaningful data to this nationwide conservation effort. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/frogwatch-become-a-citizen-scientist-south-manatee-library. For more information please visit https://manateelibrary.libcal.com/event/16519969 or contact [email protected]. South Manatee Library
Sunday, Apr 19th, 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM – Coquina Beach Clean-up – Help keep Coquina Beach beautiful by removing litter and debris that can harm wildlife and pollute our coastal environment. Join us for a community beach cleanup at Coquina Beach. Volunteers will work together to remove trash and debris from the shoreline to help protect wildlife and maintain the beauty of this popular coastal destination. Beach cleanups play an important role in preventing pollution from entering our waterways and harming marine animals. Program suitable for all ages. Cleanup supplies will be provided. Please wear comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes or sandals suitable for sand, and bring water and sun protection. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/coquina-beach-cleanup. For more information please contact [email protected]. Coquina Beach
Wednesday, Apr 22nd, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM – RIP Squad: Emerson Point Preserve – Join the RIP Squad at Emerson Point Preserve to remove invasive plants and help maintain trails while supporting healthy native habitats. Join the RIP Squad for a stewardship workday at Emerson Point Preserve. Volunteers will assist with removing invasive plants and performing trail maintenance tasks to help protect native habitats and improve preserve trails.
Invasive species removal allows native plants and wildlife to thrive while maintaining safe and enjoyable spaces for visitors. Program suitable for ages 13 and older. Tools, gloves, and guidance will be provided. Volunteers should wear closed-toe shoes, bring water, and dress for outdoor work conditions. Reservations are required. For more information please contact [email protected]. Emerson Point Preserve
Friday, Apr 24th, 7:30 AM – 9:30 AM – AM Risers: Birding for Adults – Join us for an early-morning birding walk along Robinson Preserve’s Tower Trail. We’ll explore sunrise bird activity, discuss the species that thrive here, pause at the observation tower for viewing opportunities, and enjoy a peaceful stroll along Tampa Bay. We’ll meet at the North Entrance at 7:30 a.m. sharp and begin our walk along the Tower Trail, where cooler temperatures and soft morning light create ideal conditions for spotting active bird species. Along the way, participants will enjoy elevated conversations about the birds we may encounter, their behaviors, and the unique habitats they rely on. Program suitable for adults. Reservations are required. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve North
Friday, Apr 24th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Friday Morning Yoga at the NEST – NEW Program! 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, Apr 24th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Nature Tales: Stealth Mode – 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 and then a walk on the trail. This month, we will explore camouflage. Program suitable for preschool age children. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/nature-tales-stealth-mode. For more information please contact [email protected]. Conservatory Park – Playground Pavilion
Friday, Apr 24th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM – SPECIAL FEATURE Homeschool BioLab: Feral Pigs – Join us for an exciting homeschool BioLab exploring the environmental impact of feral pigs! Students will learn how invasive hogs disrupt ecosystems—damaging soil, water quality, and native wildlife—while gaining a deeper understanding of mammal anatomy through a guided fetal pig dissection. Don't miss out on this special pig dissection as you partner up and gain a powerful, hands-on experience that connects real-world environmental issues with biology in action! Program is suitable for children 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. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://parks.mymanatee.org/webtrac/web/search.html?interfaceparameter=WebTrac_NaturalResources&primarycode=110007. For more information please contact [email protected]. Emerson Point Preserve – Emerson Classroom
Saturday, Apr 25th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM – World Tai Chi Day – Join the World in practicing Tai Chi for a day of One World, One Breath. Come out and learn different forms of Tai Chi and try each one to enjoy benefits including stress reduction, lowering of blood pressure, and improvements in flexibility and balance. Visitors are invited to join instructors from the Manatee-Sarasota area who will share different forms of Tai Chi. Each instructor will provide a follow-along mini-class for you to try their style of Tai Chi or Qi Gong. These instructors are volunteering their time and talents to share their art with the community. Event is open to all ages and skill levels. Program sponsored by Cypress Pillar Healing Arts in partnership with Manatee County. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/world-tai-chi-day-2026. For more information please contact [email protected]. GT Bray – Amphitheater
Saturday, Apr 25th, 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, Apr 25th, 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, Apr 29th, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM – Soar in 4 Family Night – 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, Apr 30th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Green Explorers: Creek Treat – Does your child like to explore? Spending unstructured time in nature inspires confidence, encourages problem solving skills, and provides social outlets for children of all ages. Physically playing on uneven surfaces even helps children develop stronger coordination and balance skills. Come out for a fun, low structure, high social experience where children get back to playing with nature. This month we will be splish splashing while we explore the stream. Program suitable for ages 5-12 year-olds. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/green-explorers-creek-treat. For more information please contact [email protected]. Rye Preserve