Will County Forest Preserve Programs
Here are the Forest Preserve District of Will County programs for the weeks of March 9 and March 16. Online registration is available on the Event Calendar at ReconnectWithNature.org.
Trail Club – March at Lake Renwick: 9-10 a.m. Saturdays through March 28, Lake Renwick Preserve – Turtle Lake Access, Plainfield. Welcome to Trail Club, a winter walking series that promotes fitness and community through brisk group walks at Will County preserves. March walks feature two loops around Turtle Lake totaling 2.2 miles; attend any or all sessions, and participants who complete at least three walks this season earn a Trail Club sticker. All ages; free.
We the Native People: 1-2 p.m. Saturday, March 14, Isle a la Cache Museum, Romeoville. Illinois Humanities Road Scholar and award-winning Ojibwa author Kim Sigafus explores how Native people were viewed and affected at the time the Declaration of Independence was signed and the lasting consequences that followed. The program includes traditional stories, songs, hands-on music experiences and a discussion of Native foods. The program aligns with the Illinois America 250 Commission’s “We the People” theme. All ages; free. Register by Thursday, March 12.
Nature Play Day After Hours – Spring Sprouts: 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 17, Plum Creek Nature Center, Crete Township. Preschoolers and their adults explore early spring plants through stories, short hikes, games and crafts during this evening nature play program. Activities include indoor and outdoor exploration. Ages 3-5; free. Register by Sunday, March 15.
Nature Play Day – Spring Sprouts: 10-11:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 18, Plum Creek Nature Center. Celebrate the arrival of spring with hands-on activities designed for young children and their caregivers, including stories, a short hike, games and crafts focused on emerging plants. Ages 3-5; free. Register by Sunday, March 15.
History of Chocolate: 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 19, Isle a la Cache Museum. Celebrate American Chocolate Week by learning the natural and cultural history of cacao, from its origins in Mesoamerica to modern chocolate bars. The evening concludes with a tasting featuring bean-to-bar chocolate and historic cocoa recipes. Ages 16 or older; free. Register by Tuesday, March 17.
Spring Equinox Sunrise Hike: 6:30-8 a.m., Friday, March 20, Monee Reservoir, Monee Township. Welcome the first morning of spring with an easygoing sunrise hike led by a naturalist, featuring folklore, quiet reflection and seasonal observations. Coffee and tea will be provided; bring a travel mug and dress for the weather. Ages 16 or older; free. Register by Wednesday, March 18.
Where the Wildflowers Are – Raccoon Grove Nature Preserve: 9:30-11 a.m., Sunday, March 22, Raccoon Grove Nature Preserve, Monee Township. Join a naturalist to search for early spring wildflowers such as anemone, Dutchman’s breeches, trillium and hepatica while learning the stories and lore behind these fleeting blooms. This program is part of a monthly wildflower series highlighting different preserves across the seasons. Ages 10 or older; free. Register by Friday, March 20.