Forest Preserves of Cook County 2026 Spring Brochure

Space Celebration: Storytime and Crafts Join us for an out-of-this-world story-time and outer-space craft during spring break. Ages 2–7 w/ adult. Tuesday, Mar 31 • 1:30 pm APRIL Story Trail: “It’s Spring” by Linda Glaser Drop in for a short trail walk while reading the story before picking up a take-home craft and activity. Wednesday, Apr 1–Thursday, Apr 30, 9 am–5 pm Zoo Adventure Passport! (ZAP!): Conservation Science Adventures Explore through play-based learning, nature crafts and discovery. In partnership with Brookfield Zoo Chicago. Drop in. Saturday, Apr 4 • 10 am–Noon Bird Painting Workshop Step-by-Step: Red-winged Blackbird* Sketch and paint using acrylic paints. For all skill levels. Materials provided. Ages 13 & up. $5/person. Fridays, Apr 10 & 24 • 10 am–12:30 pm Weaving with Weeds: Spindle Wall Hanging* Learn about the history of basketry/ weaving techniques and create a small wall hanging with invasive plants. Ages 16 & up. Saturday, Apr 11 • 1–3 pm Trailside Bluegrass Jam Build a simple instrument with us or bring your own! All are welcome to play or listen. Sunday, Apr 12 • 1–3 pm Nature Book Club: “The Great River” by Boyce Upholt* Join us for a lively discussion. Register: fppl.org/eventscal/list/. In partnership with the Forest Park Public Library. Thursday, Apr 16 • 7 pm Earth Day Pick up litter, make a bird feeder, take home a tree, enjoy a wildflower walk and create recycled material art. Drop in. Saturday, Apr 18 • 10 am–Noon Spring Wildflower Walk* Walk as we learn about spring ephemeral wildflowers and the insects that depend on them. Ages 18 & up. Sunday, Apr 26 • 10:30 am MAY World Migratory Bird Day: The Big Sit Drop in to identify and count wild birds in a relaxing way. Learn how to use eBird or iNaturalist to record sightings. Binoculars available for loan. Saturday, May 9 • 8–11 am Mother’s Day Spring Nature Walk* Join us for a casual walk and take in the sights, sounds and scents of spring. Sunday, May 10 • 10:30 am Flippin’ Logs, Lookin’ for Frogs (& Bugs!)* Discover who lives under logs in the woods. Worms and bugs abound! Saturday, May 23 • 10 am Trailside through Time* Walk our scenic trails and discuss how Trailside Museum has changed since the 1870s. Ages 18 & up. Saturday, May 30 • 10:30 am *Registration required. For more information or registration, call 708.366.6530 Continued on page 32. TRAILSIDE CENTRAL 31