Experience how nature fuels creativity during the Forest Preserve District of Will County’s Festival of Arts Through Nature from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 23, at Plum Creek Nature Center.

Admission is free, and activities are open to all ages.

“So much art is inspired by the nature all around us,” said Heather Van Zyl, facility supervisor at Plum Creek Nature Center. “I hope visitors find their nature’s muse in the details in the world around them and new ways to spark creativity.”

The event will feature art, music, movement and culinary experiences inspired by the natural world. Visitors can try musical instruments at a “musical petting zoo,” join interactive music sessions, make DIY wind chimes, and add to community art projects using natural materials. Other highlights include “en plein air” painting with supplies provided, the “Prairie Reverie” art exhibit by Carrie Carlson, and outdoor yoga sessions in the hummingbird garden.

Cooking demonstrations by Odd Produce Inc. will explore foraging and seasonal ingredients, and food vendors such as the Crete Cadets, Tacos Maui and The Bean Wagon Coffee Co. will be on site. Shoppers can browse handcrafted, nature-inspired goods including jewelry, woodwork, art prints and birdhouses from local artisans, with featured vendors including Wild Birds Unlimited, PK’s Wood Things, Judi B. Designs and more. The nature center gift shop also will be open with themed items and honey.

“This will be a fun day out for the whole family with activities for all ages,” Van Zyl said. “I hope visitors find their nature’s muse in the details in the world around them and new ways to spark creativity.”

Plum Creek Nature Center is located at 27064 S. Dutton Road, north of Goodenow Road, in Crete Township near Beecher. For more information, visit ReconnectWithNature.org.