Download the October 2026 Calendar of EcoEvents
Friday, Oct 2nd, 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, Oct 2nd, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM – Game Night – 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. Reservations not required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/october-2026-game-night-at-the-nest. For more information please contact coral.bass@mymanatee.org. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Saturday, Oct 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, Oct 3rd, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM – Movie Night at the NEST: Sesame Street and the Great Elephant Adventure – Join us among the trees as we celebrate nature! Play games and activities with local organizations and learn great ways to explore the outdoors with your family. Play in the treetops at the Canopy Zone. Then, as the sun sets, settle in for our screening of NATURE “Sesame Street and the Great Elephant Adventure”, where you can join Elmo and the Sesame Street friends on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to a Kenyan elephant sanctuary and an African bush safari. Program suitable for all ages. Program sponsored by WEDU PBS in partnership with Manatee County. Episode screening begins at 7:30 PM. Please bring blankets or chairs to watch the show on our giant outdoor screen. No reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/movie-night-at-the-nest-sesame-street-and-the-great-elephant-adventure. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST Lawn
Wednesday, Oct 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 ecoevents@mymanatee.org. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST Lawn
Wednesday, Oct 7th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Homeschool Science Club Bilingüe: Navigating the Gulf – Join us for this very special feature with the Florida Public Archaeology Network celebrating Manatee County's Hispanic heritage in this bilingual program. Explore how the Cuban Ranchos anglers of the 1700s moved in their boats from coast to coast. What does it take to float and carry cargo across an ocean? Celebra la herencia hispana del Condado de Manatí en conjunto a la Red de Arqueología Publica en Florida. Explora como los pescadores de los ranchos cubanos en los 1700s movían cargas en sus botes de costa a costa. ¿Qué hacían los pescadores para mantener su carga a salvo y transportarse por el océano? Program recommended for students ages 6-12. Program sponsored by Florida Public Archaeology Network in partnership with Manatee County. 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 the waitlist if at capacity! Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/navigating-the-gulf-emerson. For more information please contact sara.alvarezcollazo@mymanatee.org. Emerson Point Preserve – Classroom Pavilion
Wednesday, Oct 7th, 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, Oct 8th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – TreeTots: Night Nature – A hoot in the tree and the moon in the sky, nature is amazing even in the dark! Explore the wild world found in your Florida backyard through games, songs, and hands-on exploration. TreeTots is an interactive activity for babies and young toddlers to become acquainted to the natural world. Suitable for babies to 3 year olds. Reservations are required. For more information please contact coral.bass@mymanatee.org. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Friday, Oct 9th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Tall Tail Tribe: Living and Non-living – Birds, trees, and mushrooms are all living things. Rocks not so much. Using the outdoors as our guide, we will explore the different parts of nature and how living and non-living things build the world around us. Through games, exploration, and activities, your littles will discover the amazing natural features, big and small, found in your very own backyard. Program suitable for ages 3- 6 year olds. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/tall-tail-tribe-living-or-non-living. For more information please contact coral.bass@mymanatee.org. Emerson Point Preserve – Point Pavilion #3
Friday, Oct 9th, 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, Oct 9th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Homeschool Science Club: For Goodness SNAKE! (Conservatory Park) – For Goodness SNAKE! Did you know snakes have incredible adaptations that help them survive in some of the world’s most challenging environments? Explore the fascinating world of snakes as you discover how their scales, body movements, senses, adaptations, and behaviors help them thrive. Then, get up close and personal with live reptiles as you investigate different types of snakes and scales! Through hands-on exploration and observation, students will learn about snakes, snake hooking, sheds, and more! Program is suitable for ages 7-12 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-slither-and-scales-conservatory-park-q5ems5u4. For more information please contact emily.laughlin@mymanatee.org. Conservatory Park – Large Pavilion
Monday, Oct 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 aedan.stockdale@mymanatee.org. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST Lawn
Tuesday, Oct 13th, 6:50 AM – 9:00 AM – A.M Risers Adult Birding At Moody Branch WMA – Start your morning with a peaceful sunrise birding walk through Moody Branch Wildlife Management Area, home to one of the region’s renowned Florida Scrub‑Jay populations. Enjoy early‑light activity, cooler temperatures, and a slow, scenic trail as we explore this rare endemic species and the unique habitats that support it. Meet at the trailhead at 6:50 a.m.; program concludes at 9:00 a.m. Program suitable for adults and young birders Participants should bring a water bottle and wear weather-appropriate clothing. We recommend sun protection, bug spray, and closed-toed shoes. Binoculars will be provided, and participants are welcome to bring their own Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/wildlife-spotlight-a-m-risers-moody-branch-gpqnls95. For more information please contact cierra.nelson@mymanatee.org. Moody Branch
Tuesday, Oct 13th, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM – Wings in the Night – Help us track the nocturnal pollinators in our parks and preserves. After sunset, we will set up a sheet and lights to attract moths and other nocturnal insects and identify them using iNaturalist. Learn all about moths and the important role they play in our ecosystem. Program suitable for all ages. Program sponsored by Tampa Bay Estuary Program in partnership with Manatee County. Participants should install iNaturalist on their devices if they wish to help catalog the insects found. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/wings-in-the-night-a-mothing-bioblitz. Hidden Harbor Park
Wednesday, Oct 14th – Friday Oct 14th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Volunteer Restoration Project – Oyster Shell Drilling – Join us for a hands-on morning supporting oyster restoration! Volunteers will drill recycled oyster shells and assemble oyster pins for upcoming restoration projects in the Manatee River and nearby waterways. Program suitable for ages 16 + All supplies needed for the cleanup will be provided. Just bring water, comfortable clothes, and closed-toe shoes. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/oyster-reef-restoration-volunteer-project-oyster-shell-drilling. For more information please contact shelby.reece@mymanatee.org. Robinson Preserve South – NEST Parking Lot
Wednesday, Oct 14th, 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM – Teen Wild Trails Estuary Hike – In this easy level adventure, we will hike for about 3 miles in an estuary habitat at Emerson Point Preserve in Palmetto, FL. Please wear clothing appropriate for bring in the outdoors. We recommend a water bottle, sun protection such as a hat and sunscreen and insect repellent. Program suitable for ages 13-17 Teen 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 of select months to explore a new wild trail on the county map. Adventures will last around 4 hours excluding drive time. All participants should be able to keep up with the physical demands of being outdoors in Florida. This is a drop off program. Adventures are limited to 10 participants. Club members will be accompanied by two staff members knowledgeable in Wilderness Survival, First Aid, CPR and AED. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/teen-wild-trails-september2026. For more information please contact sara.alvarezcollazo@mymanatee.org. Emerson Point Preserve – Classroom
Wednesday, Oct 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 ecoevents@mymanatee.org. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST Lawn
CANCELLED Wednesday, Oct 14th, 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM – Homeschool Bio Lab: Mucking in the Mangroves at Emerson Point – PROGRAM CANCELLED
Thursday, Oct 15th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Homeschool Science Club: Spooky Science – Channel your inner mad scientist as we conduct a series of spooky experiments! Observe an explosive reaction, make a crime scene using pH indicators and explore polymers by making a spider's web. Join us for this annual tradition and more at our frightfully cool spooky science afternoon! Program recommended for students ages 6-12. 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 the waitlist if at capacity! Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/spooky-science-rye2026. For more information please contact sara.alvarezcollazo@mymanatee.org. Rye Preserve – Pavilion
Thursday, Oct 15th, 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM – Wildlife Spotlight: Bats – Join us for a sunset adventure at Robinson Preserve as we search for bats! Discover the fascinating world of these nocturnal echolocators and learn about the unique adaptations that make bats nature’s only flying mammals. We’ll also explore the important role they play in our ecosystem and simple ways you can help protect them in the wild. Come enjoy an evening outdoors and see Robinson Preserve from a whole new perspective! We will provide headlamps and bat listening devices! Event is best for adults. Program suitable for adults. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/wildlife-spotlight-bats-9cyknls7. For more information please contact emily.laughlin@mymanatee.org. Robinson Preserve – The NEST
Friday, Oct 16th, 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, Oct 16th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Homeschool Science Club: Spooky Science – Channel your inner mad scientist as we conduct a series of spooky experiments! Observe an explosive reaction, make a crime scene using pH indicators and explore polymers by making a spider's web. Join us for this annual tradition and more at our frightfully cool spooky science afternoon! Program recommended for students ages 6-12. 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 the waitlist if at capacity! Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/spooky-science-emerson2026. For more information please contact sara.alvarezcollazo@mymanatee.org. Emerson Point Preserve – Classroom Pavilion
Saturday, Oct 17th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Master Gardener Tour: Rye Preserve – Take a hike through upland habitats along the beautiful Rye Branch and learn about Florida's native plants, natural history, and early settlement of the area with a Master Gardener Guide. Program suitable for all ages. Program offered by Manatee County UF/IFAS Extension. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rye-preserve-tours-tickets-1517497478809. Rye Preserve
Saturday, Oct 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
Saturday, Oct 17th, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM – National Fossil Day at The Bishop – Celebrate National Fossil Day at The Bishop! Igniting passion and wonder about Earth's natural history while highlighting the biodiversity of our world in both the past and present. This event is the perfect way for curious minds of all ages to learn, explore, and connect with the science beneath our feet. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations are required. For more information please visit https://bishopscience.org/events/. The Bishop Museum
Saturday, Oct 17th, 7:30 PM – 9:30 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
Sunday, Oct 18th, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM – Sunset Paddle – What a great way to spend a Sunday evening, on a Sunset Paddle in Robinson Preserve. Come out and enjoy the salt marshes of Robinson Preserve with WayneAdventures and Manatee County Natural Resources. We will paddle out to the sandbars of the Manatee River and watch the sun set over the Gulf. Bring your camera for great shots of egrets, herons, and roseate spoonbills. This is an easy paddle which can be enjoyed by beginning kayakers. Program suitable for all ages. Program sponsored by Wayne Adventures in partnership with Manatee County. Everyone must bring a headlamp or flashlight and must wear clothes and footwear that can get wet. Closed-toes shoes are required (no flip flops). All participants must wear a life jacket. You can borrow kayak or bring your own. Please choose the appropriate ticket type. Life jackets, paddles and safety whistles will be provided. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/sunset-paddle. For more information please contact matthew.tschirgi@mymanatee.org. Robinson Preserve – North Kayak Launch
Tuesday, Oct 20th, 7:00 AM – 8:30 AM – Sunrise Seashell Walk – Discover the beach as the sun comes up. Start your morning with a peaceful sunrise walk along the shore as we search for seashells. Learn how to identify common shells, discover the fascinating world of mollusks, and explore the unique adaptations that help these animals thrive along our coast. As we beachcomb, we’ll discuss ethical seashell-collecting practices, learn what to look for in a healthy shoreline, and discover how shells connect us to the incredible life of the ocean. Come enjoy a beautiful sunrise while gaining a whole new appreciation for the treasures found along our beaches. Program suitable for all ages. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/sunrise-seashell-walk. For more information please contact emily.laughlin@mymanatee.org. Coquina Beach
Wednesday, Oct 21st, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Hidden Harbor Park – Volunteer Trash & Agricultural Debris Cleanup – Join us at Hidden Harbor Park to clear litter and leftover farm materials and help pave the way for future habitat restoration! Program suitable for 10 + No previous experience is needed. We’ll provide the tools, materials, and instructions. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/hidden-harbor-park-volunteer-trash-and-agricultural-debris-cleanup. For more information please contact shelby.reece@mymanatee.org. Hidden Harbor Park
Wednesday, Oct 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 ecoevents@mymanatee.org. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST Lawn
Wednesday, Oct 21st, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Soar Lab – Our partners at Soar in 4 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. Program suitable for children 3rd grade 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
Friday, Oct 23rd, 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, Oct 23rd, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Nature Tales: BioLights – Does your kiddo enjoy stories and nature? Join us at Conservatory Park in Nature Tales. Meet monthly at Conservatory Park for an interactive story time, activities, and a walk in the great outdoors. This month, we will explore bioluminescence and the amazing lifeforms that can produce their own light. Program suitable for children 8 year old and younger. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/nature-tales-biolights. For more information please contact coral.bass@mymanatee.org. Conservatory Park – Playground Pavilion
Friday, Oct 23rd, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Homeschool BioLab: Entomology 101: Insect Pinning & Identification – Step into the role of an entomologist with Homeschool Bio Lab! In this session, students will learn how to carefully preserve insects through the art of bug pinning. We’ll discuss proper collection techniques, specimen handling, species identification, and the importance of ethical practices. Once pinned, participants will explore methods for identifying insects using field guides and classification keys, gaining a deeper understanding of insect anatomy and diversity. By the end of class, each student will have their own pinned specimen to take home, along with new skills in insect identification and taxonomy. This lab is a perfect mix of science, discovery, and hands-on practice. Program recommended 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. 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 emily.laughlin@mymanatee.org. Emerson Point Preserve – Emerson Classroom
Saturday, Oct 24th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Robinson Restoration – Help restore habitat at Robinson Preserve! We will be cleaning up the newly cleared area and will plant natives near the NEST at the South Entrance program suitable for all ages We’ll provide the tools, materials, and instructions. Please bring a reusable water bottle and wear closed-toed shoes. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/robinson-restoration. For more information please contact shelby.reece@mymanatee.org. Robinson Preserve South – NEST Parking Lot
Saturday, Oct 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
Saturday, Oct 24th, 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM – Fishing Club – Looking to try fishing? Have a burning question about a lure or rig? Bring your fishing gear or borrow ours and come get your answers at Fishing Club! Instructors can answer your questions, teach you the basics or just recommend the best places to fish in the preserve. Fishing poles are available to borrow on a first come, first served basis, for the duration of the program. Bait will be provided for the duration of the program. ¿Le gustaría experimentar con la pesca? ¿Tiene una pregunta sobre un señuelo de pesca? ¡Traiga su equipo de pesca o hasta tome el de nosotros prestado y disfrute de un día de pesca! Los maestros les pueden responder a sus preguntas, enseñarle lo básico sobre la pesca o hasta recomendar áreas para pescar en la reserva natural. La carnada será proveída durante el evento y habrán cañas de pescar, mientras disponibles, para tomar prestadas por la duración del evento. Club para todas las edades. Program suitable for all ages. Meet me at the Emerson south fishing dock! Park at the mound entrance parking lot. Walk around the mound and follow the row of palms to the dock. No reservations required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/fishing-club-oct2026. For more information please contact sara.alvarezcollazo@mymanatee.org. Emerson Point Preserve – Fishing Dock
Sunday, Oct 25th, 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM – Prenatal & Postnatal Yoga – Light Waves Yoga is excited to offer a slow, gentle yoga class designed for pregnant and postpartum mothers. A sacred hour to breathe, move safely, and reconnect with yourself during one of life's most transformative seasons. Prenatal participants must be at least 12 weeks along. Program sponsored by Light Waves Yoga in partnership with Manatee County. All levels welcome, no experience needed. Feel comfortable texting instructor Briana with any questions: 941-254-1079. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://sites.google.com/view/light-waves-yoga/home. $20 Program Fee Payable Online. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Tuesday, Oct 27th, 6:50 AM – 9:00 AM – A.M. Risers: Intercoastal Robinson Preserve – Greet the morning with A.M. Risers: Intercoastal Robinson Preserve, a sunrise birding hike that explores some of the preserve’s most active and scenic hotspots. After September’s coastal route yielded an impressive 30+ species, this October program shifts inland to the Eagle Loop, Spoonbill, Gull, and Ibis trails — a blended 1.87‑mile route known for rich habitat variety and early‑morning movement. Program suitable for adults. Participants should bring their usual birding essentials; materials can be provided for anyone who needs binoculars, We’ll meet at 6:50 a.m. and conclude around 9:00 a.m., giving ample time for observation, trail exploration, and species discussions. This intercoastal hike is slightly more intense than our coastal walk, but equally rewarding for birders who enjoy diverse terrain and active dawn behavior. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/a-m-risers-intercoastal-robinson-preserve?h=YRUt7GqtNlUeA73GiWQaiORaCBZ5FW6ABIv5YJxSX6s&t=1790097736996. For more information please contact cierra.nelson@mymanatee.org. Robinson Preserve
Tuesday, Oct 27th – Thursday Oct 27th, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM – VolunTeen - Pollinator Garden Restoration – Join the VolunTeens to help pull weeds, plant natives & refresh the garden. Perfect for teens who love the outdoors and want to earn service hours. program suitable for ages 13--18 We’ll provide the tools, materials, and instructions. Please bring a reusable water bottle and wear closed-toed shoes. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/volunteen-plant-restoration-robinson-preserve. For more information please contact shelby.reece@mymanatee.org. Robinson Preserve North – Valentine House
Wednesday, Oct 28th, 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 ecoevents@mymanatee.org. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST Lawn
Thursday, Oct 29th – Monday Oct 26th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Green Explorers: Owl-Ween- Halloweens Feathered Frights – Crows, Vultures and Owls oh my. Stretch your wings and discover the wild feathered friends of Halloween. Explore the birds’ habitats, feeding behaviors, and how they became part of our spookiest holiday. Using hands-on exploration and the participants’ own creativity, attendees will have a chance to play in nature. Green Explorers is a low structure, highly social, and experience-based activity. Program suitable for all ages, recommended for ages 5- 12. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/green-explorers-owl-ween-halloween-feathered-frights. For more information please contact coral.bass@mymanatee.org. Conservatory Park – Playground Pavilion
Thursday, Oct 29th, 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM – Homeschool Bio Lab: Mucking in the Mangroves at Robinson Preserve – Get ready to get your hands dirty and explore Florida’s coastal ecosystems like a real field biologist! During this hands-on, low-tide adventure at Robinson Preserve, students will explore the mangrove forest and Tampa Bay while investigating the environmental conditions that make these unique ecosystems thrive. Along the way, young scientists will collect field data, examine water and soil conditions, investigate salinity, observe wildlife, and document the biodiversity around them. Students will visit multiple research stations throughout the preserve before bringing their observations together to uncover what their data tells us about the health and changing conditions of our local estuary. Program recommended for ages 10-15. Participants should be prepared for an active and scientific outdoor experience and may encounter mud, uneven terrain, insects, and other natural conditions. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://parks.mymanatee.org/webtrac/web/search.html?Interfaceparameter=WebTrac_NaturalResources&module=AR&primarycode=110007 For more information please contact cierra.nelson@mymanatee.org. Robinson Preserve – South Expansion
Friday, Oct 30th, 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, Oct 31st, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Tide Trekker – Sunny Shores Park Paddle Cleanup – Paddle with a purpose! Join Tide Trekkers at Sunny Shores Park to collect shoreline trash by kayak. All kayaks, paddles, and safety gear provided program suitable for ages 13+ All kayaks and supplies needed for the cleanup will be provided. Just bring a water bottle, sun protection, and closed-toe shoes. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://events.humanitix.com/tide-trekker-sunny-shores-park-paddle-cleanup. For more information please contact shelby.reece@mymanatee.org. Sunny Shores Park
Saturday, Oct 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