Calendar of Events

Birding at Willowbrook — Learn the basics of birding, and search for feathered friends during a leisurely stroll in the “Back 40” of Willowbrook Wildlife Center. Bring binoculars. 8 to 9:30 a.m. at Willowbrook Wildlife Center in Glen Ellyn. Ages 10 and up with an adult. Call (630) 942-6200.

Diva Days: Kayak DuPage — Join this program for women led by women. Try your hand at kayaking after learning basic techniques and watercraft safety. 6 to 8 p.m. at Blackwell Forest Preserve in Warrenville. Ages 8 and up; under 18 with an adult. $35 per person. Reservations begin April 1.
Call (630) 574-7700.

FullersBird Fridays — Take these weekly naturalist-led hikes to see how the diversity of birds inhabiting a forest preserve changes during spring. 7:30 to 9 a.m. at Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve in Oak Brook. Adults only. Reservations begin two weeks prior to the event. Call (630) 850-8110.

Derby Day at Danada — Celebrate the Kentucky Derby at an all-ages fundraiser event that will include a variety of activities, food, a silent auction and a Derby telecast. 1 to 6 p.m. at the Danada Equestrian Center in Wheaton. $25 ages 12 and up, $10 ages 11 and under. For reservations, call (630) 668-6012.

Facts to Know While on the Go — Hike a trail with a ranger, and hear stories about the preserve’s history and wildlife. Noon to 1 p.m. at Oldfield Oaks Forest Preserve in Darien. Reservations begin April 21. Call (630) 933-7248.

Native-Plant Nursery Workday — Help the District’s Habitat Improvement Program by lending a hand at the nursery. Weed and water plant beds, and collect and clean seeds. 8 to 11 a.m. at the Grounds and Resources Complex at Blackwell Forest Preserve in Warrenville. Ages 12 and up; under 16 with an adult. Groups of five or more must make reservations two weeks prior to the event. Call (630) 933-7681 for waiver requirements.

Rummage Sale — Celebrate the village of Oak Brook’s 50th anniversary while you search for great finds at a rummage sale. Proceeds benefit Mayslake Peabody Estate through the Oak Brook Preservation Fund. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Mayslake Peabody Estate in Oak Brook. All ages; $2 per person ages 16 and up. Call (630) 206-9569.

Scoutrageous! — Webelos, spend a day with experts in the field as you fulfill requirements for the “Forester” and “Naturalist” badges. 9 a.m. to noon at Blackwell Forest Preserve in Warrenville. Cub Scouts ages 9 to 11. $10 per Scout. Reservations begin March 22. Call (630) 942-6200.

Backpacking Basics — Learn about backpacking gear, trail etiquette and safety. 1 to 3 p.m. at Herrick Lake Forest Preserve in Wheaton. Ages 8 and up with an adult. Reservations begin April 21. Call (630) 933-9248.

Birds of a Feather — Join birders looking for spring migrants and summer residents. Binoculars recommended. 7:30 to 10 a.m. at Springbrook Prairie Forest Preserve in Naperville. All ages; under 14 with an adult. Groups of five or more must make reservations two weeks prior to the event. Call (630) 933-7681.

Landscaping for Birds — Learn how to attract birds to your yard by planting native flowers, shrubs and trees. Then, take a naturalist-led hike to see first-hand what some of these plants look like. 3:15 to 4:30 p.m. at Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve in Oak Brook. Adults only. $2 per person. Reservations begin April 19. Call (630) 850-8110.

The Magic of Flowers — Join a naturalist to learn the enchanting, entrancing secrets of wildflowers with a short hike and a flower craft. 1 to 3 p.m. at Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center in Oak Brook. Ages 8 to 12. Reservations begin April 20. Call (630) 850-8110.

Native Landscaping for Beginners — Want to create a native garden at your home but don’t know where to start? Bring some inspiration, and learn about grasses, perennials and butterfly gardens. 1 to 3 p.m. at Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center in Oak Brook. Adults only. $5 per person. For reservations, call (630) 850-8110.

Active Adults Fishing — Get reacquainted with fishing through this series for active adults that includes both indoor instruction and hands-on experience. 9 to 11 a.m. at Mayslake Peabody Estate in Oak Brook. Ages 50 and up. Reservations begin April 22. Call (630) 206-9566.

The life of Wildflowers — Take a walk with a naturalist, and learn about the secret lives of our native plants. 10 to 11 a.m. at Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve in Oak Brook. Adults only. Reservations begin April 23. Call (630) 850-8110.

Wild Wednesday Walks — Join a naturalist for a brisk weekly walk, and enjoy some heart-healthy exercise as you take in all the wonders of the woods. 8 to 9 a.m. at Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve in Oak Brook. Reservations begin two weeks prior to the event. Call (630) 850-8110.

Birding at Willowbrook — Learn the basics of birding, and search for feathered friends during a leisurely stroll in the “Back 40” of Willowbrook Wildlife Center. Bring binoculars. 8 to 9:30 a.m. at Willowbrook Wildlife Center in Glen Ellyn. Ages 10 and up with an adult. Call (630) 942-6200.

The Wedding Handkerchief — Learn about wedding traditions, like the wedding handkerchief, as you see the farmhouse in preparation for a farm wedding. Tours begin on the hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Kline Creek Farm in Winfield. Call (630) 876-5900.

FullersBird Fridays — Take these weekly naturalist-led hikes to see how the diversity of birds inhabiting a forest preserve changes during spring. 7:30 to 9 a.m. at Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve in Oak Brook. Adults only. Reservations begin two weeks prior to the event. Call (630) 850-8110.

Kids Fishing Clinic — Kids, learn fish ecology and identification as well as fishing techniques and regulations. 6 to 8 p.m. at Churchill Woods Forest Preserve in Glen Ellyn. Ages 6 to 16 with an adult. Reservations begin April 25. Call (630) 933-7248.

Native-Plant Sale — Stop by this outdoor plant sale, and get your garden off to a great start with plants adapted to DuPage County conditions. Proceeds support educational programming at the District. 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Mayslake Peabody Estate in Oak Brook. Call (630) 933-7208.

The Wedding Handkerchief — Learn about wedding traditions, like the wedding handkerchief, as you see the farmhouse in preparation for a farm wedding. Tours begin on the hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Kline Creek Farm in Winfield. Call (630) 876-5900.

Birding Field Trip — Meet fellow birding enthusiasts, and search for resident and migratory birds. Binoculars recommended. 7 to 11 a.m. at West Chicago Prairie Forest Preserve in West Chicago. Groups of 10 or more must make reservations. Call (630) 961-2041.

Blacksmithing Demonstrations — Watch the blacksmith repair equipment and demonstrate the tools and techniques of the trade. 10:30 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3:30 p.m. at Kline Creek Farm in Winfield. Call (630) 876-5900.

Cast-Iron Cooking — Join in the hands-on preparation of a hearty meal prepared over an open campfire, and learn useful tips for cooking with cast iron. Noon to 2 p.m. at Herrick Lake Forest Preserve in Wheaton. $10 per person ages 16 and up, $5 ages 15 and under. Reservations begin April 28. Call (630) 933-7248.

Girl Scout Badge Day: All About Birds — Girl Scouts, discuss the life histories of various birds, and learn the mechanics of flight as you fulfill requirements for the “All About Birds” badge. 8 a.m. to noon at. Willowbrook Wildlife Center in Glen Ellyn. Girl Scouts ages 11 to 17. $1 per Scout. Reservations begin April 19. Call (630) 942-6200.

Native-Plant Sale — Stop by this outdoor plant sale, and get your garden off to a great start with plants adapted to DuPage County conditions. Proceeds support educational programming at the District. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Mayslake Peabody Estate in Oak Brook. Call (630) 933-7208.

Spring into Volunteering — Show the earth a little kindness, and help clean up one of DuPage County’s most popular preserves. 9 a.m. to noon at Spring Creek Reservoir Forest Preserve in Bloomingdale. All ages; under 14 with an adult. Groups of five or more must make reservations. Call (630) 933-7681 for waiver requirements.

The Wedding Handkerchief — Learn about wedding traditions, like the wedding handkerchief, as you see the farmhouse in preparation for a farm wedding. Tours begin on the hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Kline Creek Farm in Winfield. Call (630) 876-5900.

The Wedding Handkerchief — Learn about wedding traditions, like the wedding handkerchief, as you see the farmhouse in preparation for a farm wedding. Tours begin on the hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Kline Creek Farm in Winfield. Call (630) 876-5900.

The Wedding Handkerchief — Learn about wedding traditions, like the wedding handkerchief, as you see the farmhouse in preparation for a farm wedding. Tours begin on the hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Kline Creek Farm in Winfield. Call (630) 876-5900.

Active Adults Fishing — Get reacquainted with fishing through this series for active adults that includes both indoor instruction and hands-on experience. 9 to 11 a.m. at Mayslake Peabody Estate in Oak Brook. Ages 50 and up. Reservations begin April 22. Call (630) 206-9566.

Introduction to Archery — Gain an insightful introduction to this classic sport, including overviews of equipment, history and shooting techniques. Equipment provided. 6 to 8 p.m. at the archery range at Blackwell Forest Preserve in Warrenville. Ages 5 and up; under 18 with an adult. Reservations begin April 30. Call (630) 933-7248.

Wild Wednesday Walks — Join a naturalist for a brisk weekly walk, and enjoy some heart-healthy exercise as you take in all the wonders of the woods. 8 to 9 a.m. at Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve in Oak Brook. Reservations begin two weeks prior to the event. Call (630) 850-8110.

Birding at Willowbrook — Learn the basics of birding, and search for feathered friends during a leisurely stroll in the “Back 40” of Willowbrook Wildlife Center. Bring binoculars. 8 to 9:30 a.m. at Willowbrook Wildlife Center in Glen Ellyn. Ages 10 and up with an adult. Call (630) 942-6200.

Diva Days: Discovering Nature — Join this outdoor-exploration program for women led by women. 6 to 8 p.m. at Meacham Grove Forest Preserve in Bloomingdale. Ages 8 and up; under 18 with an adult. Reservations begin May 1. Call (630) 933-7248.

Native-Plant Nursery Workday — Help the District’s Habitat Improvement Program by lending a hand at the nursery. Weed and water plant beds, and collect and clean seeds. 8 to 11 a.m. at the Grounds and Resources Complex at Blackwell Forest Preserve in Warrenville. Ages 12 and up; under 16 with an adult. Groups of five or more must make reservations two weeks prior to the event. Call (630) 933-7681 for waiver requirements.

Orienteering for Beginners — Learn basic map and compass skills that will help you navigate in all types of terrain. 6 to 8 p.m. at Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve in Darien. Ages 8 and up. Reservations begin May 1. Call (630) 933-7248.

The Wedding Handkerchief — Learn about wedding traditions, like the wedding handkerchief, as you see the farmhouse in preparation for a farm wedding. Tours begin on the hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Kline Creek Farm in Winfield. Call (630) 876-5900.

Fishing Clinic for Beginners — Learn ecology, identification and techniques of fishing. 5 to 8 p.m. at Herrick Lake in Wheaton. Ages 5 and up; under 18 with adult. Reservations begin May 2. Call (630) 933-7248.

FullersBird Fridays — Take these weekly naturalist-led hikes to see how the diversity of birds inhabiting a forest preserve changes during spring. 7:30 to 9 a.m. at Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve in Oak Brook. Adults only. Reservations begin two weeks prior to the event. Call (630) 850-8110.

The Wedding Handkerchief — Learn about wedding traditions, like the wedding handkerchief, as you see the farmhouse in preparation for a farm wedding. Tours begin on the hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Kline Creek Farm in Winfield. Call (630) 876-5900.

Blacksmithing Demonstrations — Watch a blacksmith repair equipment and demonstrate tools and techniques of the trade. 10:30 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3:30 p.m. at Kline Creek Farm in Winfield. Call (630) 876-5900.Bloomin’ Wonders — Learn to identify native wildflowers, and see glorious blooms. 9 a.m. to noon at Springbrook Prairie Forest Preserve in Naperville. All ages; under 14 with an adult. Groups of five or more must make reservations two weeks prior to the event. Call (630) 933-7681.International Migratory Bird Day Celebration:
• Bird Walk for Adults, 8 – 9:30 a.m., ages 12 and up, reservations required
• Bird Banding Demonstration, 9 – 11 a.m., ages 12 and up
• The Perils of Migration: The Chicago Bird Collision Monitoring Program, 10:30 a.m. to noon, ages 10 and up, reservations required
• Kids’ Activity Station, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Kids’ Bird Walk, 10:30 a.m. to noon, ages 8 and up
• Origin of Bird Names, 1 – 2 p.m., adults only, reservations required
• Gardening for Birders, 2:30 – 3:30 p.m., ages 12 and up
• Bird Walk for Beginners, 3:30 – 5 p.m., ages 12 and up, reservations required, bring binoculars
An adult must accompany all children. All activities take place at Willowbrook Wildlife Center in Glen Ellyn. As noted, reservations are required for some activities and begin May 1. Call (630) 942-6200.

Introduction to Archery — An introduction to this classic sport, including overviews of equipment, history and shooting techniques. Equipment provided. 10 a.m. to noon at the archery range at Blackwell Forest Preserve in Warrenville. Ages 5 and up; under 18 with an adult. Reservations begin May 2. Call (630) 933-7248.

Kids’ Bike Rodeo — Kids of all ages, learn about bicycle safety in the forest preserves, and test your riding skills during a fun clinic that features a short obstacle course. Ages 9 and up can also join a guided trail ride. 9 to 11 a.m. at Herrick Lake Forest Preserve in Wheaton. Call (630) 871-6425.

Nature Workday — Help restore a natural area by removing nonnative vegetation or planting seed. 9 a.m. to noon at the Glacial Ridge area at Churchill Woods Forest Preserve in Glen Ellyn and at Springbrook Prairie Forest Preserve in Naperville. Also, 9 to 11:30 a.m. at Lyman Woods Forest Preserve in Downers Grove. All ages; under 14 with an adult. Groups of five or more must make reservations two weeks prior to the event. Call (630) 933-7681 for waiver requirements.

The Wedding Handkerchief — Learn about wedding traditions, like the wedding handkerchief, as you see the farmhouse in preparation for a farm wedding. Tours begin on the hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Kline Creek Farm in Winfield. Call (630) 876-5900.

Backpack DuPage — Take a backpacking adventure through a scenic preserve. Hear from experts, and learn about backpacking gear and safety tips. Equipment provided. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Herrick Lake Forest Preserve in Wheaton. Ages 8 and up with an adult. $10 per person. Reservations begin April 18. Call (630) 574-7700.

The Wedding Handkerchief — Learn about wedding traditions, like the wedding handkerchief, as you see the farmhouse in preparation for a farm wedding. Tours begin on the hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Kline Creek Farm in Winfield. Call (630) 876-5900.

The Wedding Handkerchief — Learn about wedding traditions, like the wedding handkerchief, as you see the farmhouse in preparation for a farm wedding. Tours begin on the hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Kline Creek Farm in Winfield. Call (630) 876-5900.

Nature Hike for Home-Schoolers — Learn about nature and wildlife during off-trail explorations through a variety of habitats. 1 to 3 p.m. at Hawk Hollow Forest Preserve in Hanover Park. Ages 5 and up with an adult. Reservations begin May 8. Call (630) 942-6200.

Wild Wednesday Walks — Join a naturalist for a brisk weekly walk, and enjoy some heart-healthy exercise as you take in all the wonders of the woods. 8 to 9 a.m. at Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve in Oak Brook. Reservations begin two weeks prior to the event. Call (630) 850-8110.

Nature Hike for Home-Schoolers — Learn about nature and wildlife during off-trail explorations through a variety of habitats. 1 to 3 p.m. at Hawk Hollow Forest Preserve in Hanover Park. Ages 5 and up with an adult. Reservations begin May 8. Call (630) 942-6200.

Fishing for Carp — Find out how to pursue one of the most overlooked yet entertaining fish to catch. 6 to 8 p.m. at Churchill Woods Forest Preserve in Glen Ellyn. Ages 8 and up; under 16 with an adult. Reservations begin May 9. Call (630) 933-7248.

Froggin’ Under the Stars — Identify local frogs by their calls while learning about seasonal stars and constellations. 8 to 10 p.m. at James “Pate” Phillip State Park in Bartlett. Ages 5 and up with an adult. Reservations begin May 9. Call (630) 850-8110.

FullersBird Fridays — Take these weekly naturalist-led hikes to see how the diversity of birds inhabiting a forest preserve changes during spring. 7:30 to 9 a.m. at Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve in Oak Brook. Adults only. Reservations begin two weeks prior to the event. Call (630) 850-8110.

Paddle Churchill — Bring your state-registered kayak or canoe for a ranger-led paddle along the river. Learn water safety, explore remote areas, and discover local flora and fauna. 9:30 a.m. to noon at Churchill Woods Forest Preserve in Glen Ellyn. Ages 8 and up with an adult. Reservations begin May 12. Call (630) 933-7248.

St. James Farm Forest Preserve Preview — Attend a public preview of the 607-acre St. James Farm Forest Preserve in Warrenville, and learn about this historic estate through guided tours and interpretive displays. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at St. James Farm Forest Preserve in Warrenville. Call (630) 933-7248.

St. James Farm Forest Preserve Preview — Attend a public preview of the 607-acre St. James Farm Forest Preserve in Warrenville, and learn about this historic estate through guided tours and interpretive displays. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at St. James Farm Forest Preserve in Warrenville. Call (630) 933-7248.

Memorial Day Remembered — Honor America’s soldiers through the traditional speeches and activities of the 1890s holiday “Decoration Day,” the precursor to today’s Memorial Day. Held in Partnership with the Center for History. 1:30 p.m. at Kline Creek Farm in Winfield. Call (630) 876-5900.

St. James Farm Forest Preserve Preview — Attend a public preview of the 607-acre St. James Farm Forest Preserve in Warrenville, and learn about this historic estate through guided tours and interpretive displays. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at St. James Farm Forest Preserve in Warrenville. Call (630) 933-7248.

Native-Plant Nursery Workday — Help the District’s Habitat Improvement Program by lending a hand at the nursery. Weed and water plant beds, and collect and clean seeds. 8 to 11 a.m. at the Grounds and Resources Complex at Blackwell Forest Preserve in Warrenville. Ages 12 and up; under 16 with an adult. Groups of five or more must make reservations two weeks prior to the event. Call (630) 933-7681 for waiver requirements.

Digital Photography — Bring your camera, its manual and your creativity to a five-part photography workshop held in partnership with the Mayslake Nature Study and Photography Club. Class meets on May 28 and June 4, 11, 18 and 25. 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Mayslake Peabody Estate in Oak Brook. Ages 14 and up. $125 per person. Call (630) 206-9566 for reservations.

Introduction to Archery — Gain an insightful introduction to this classic sport, including overviews of equipment, history and shooting techniques. Equipment provided. 6 to 8 p.m. at the archery range at Blackwell Forest Preserve in Warrenville. Ages 5 and up; under 18 with an adult. Reservations begin May 14. Call (630) 933-7248.

“Take the Leap: Volunteer!” Information Session — Take a look at (and then leap into) volunteering with the Forest Preserve District by attending an information session where you can get an overview of the nine volunteer programs, ask questions, and decide which program matches your interests and schedule. 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the headquarters building at Danada Forest Preserve in Wheaton. Call (630) 933-7681.

Wild Wednesday Walks — Join a naturalist for a brisk weekly walk, and enjoy some heart-healthy exercise as you take in all the wonders of the woods. 8 to 9 a.m. at Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve in Oak Brook. Reservations begin two weeks prior to the event. Call (630) 850-8110.

A Beginner’s Guide to Camping — Whether you’re a first-time camper or only need a refresher course, learn how to sleep in the outdoors without spending a fortune on equipment. 6 to 8 p.m. at Blackwell Forest Preserve in Warrenville. Adults only. Reservations begin April 15. Call (630) 933-7248.

Bass-Fishing Clinic — Learn how to use some of the most effective bass lures on the market, and try them out on one of the Forest Preserve District’s best bass lakes. Rangers will teach how to cast, tie knots and handle fish. 5 to 8 p.m. at Herrick Lake Forest Preserve in Wheaton. Ages 8 and up; under 16 with an adult. Reservations begin May 16. Call (630) 933-7248.

FullersBird Fridays — Take these weekly naturalist-led hikes to see how the diversity of birds inhabiting a forest preserve changes during spring. 7:30 to 9 a.m. at Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve in Oak Brook. Adults only. Reservations begin two weeks prior to the event. Call (630) 850-8110.

Kayak DuPage — Try your hand at kayaking after learning basic techniques, watercraft safety and preserve information. Kayaks and personal flotation devices provided. 1 to 3 p.m. at Mallard Lake Forest Preserve in Hanover Park. Ages 8 and up; under 18 with an adult. $35 per person. Reservations begin April 30.  Call (630) 574-7700.

Ranger Trek Jr. — Learn about the critters that call the forest preserves home, and join a ranger on a hike to explore a variety of habitats. 10 a.m. to noon at Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve in Darien. Ages 10 and under with an adult. Reservations begin May 16. Call (630) 933-7248.