(Marcellus, NY – Dec. 2013) Baltimore Woods Nature Center announces their December programs with details listed below.
December 6th Comet ISON Party 5-7am
Comet ISON has been called many things, including the “Comet of the Century,” since it’s discovery last year. At the end of November, it will make an extremely close pass to the sun. If it survives without breaking up it may be a spectacular object in the pre-dawn sky, but there’s no way to predict for sure until it happens. Comets are fickle and unpredictable – some becoming very bright, some not. Come out early in the morning to this special program and take a look at Comet ISON. You may be in for a real treat!
$5 members, $15/family; $8 nonmembers, $25 for families.
December 14th Caroling in the Woods 7-8:30pm
Pick up a lantern and song sheet and enjoy a beloved tradition at Baltimore Woods. Bring natural treats to hang for the birds and holiday treats to share with fellow carolers. Finish up the night with hot drinks in the Interpretive Center and a special visit from the Solstice Skunk! This event is free for all, and as always, donations are appreciated. Please bring cookies to share.
December 13th Star Party: Geminid Meteor Shower 7-9pm
One of the year’s finest! Unlike most meteor showers, this one is composed of asteroid debris, not comet debris, and bright meteors can be seen much earlier in the evening. Also, the winter skies will be showing off the brightest stars and nebulae visible to us in the northern hemisphere, including the great Orion nebula. Dress warmly! $5 for members, $15/family; $8 for nonmembers, $25/family. Back-up date: Dec 14th.
December21st Solstice Hike 7-8:30pm
It’s the longest night of the year, the forest is blanketed in silence, and the just-past-full moon sets the snow covered trees aglow. Be a part of the silence and experience the beautiful winter night, comforted in knowing that tomorrow will be a longer day. Snowshoes and instruction provided. $5 for members, $15/family; $8 for nonmembers, $25/family.
December 27th A Winter’s Ramble 1-3pm
Feeling lethargic after all the holiday festivities or need something fun and exciting to entertain family from out of town? Join a Baltimore Woods Naturalist for a guided snowshoe hike and explore the winter wonderland of The Woods. There will be an introduction to snowshoeing, a great opportunity for beginners! Snowshoes will be provided. $5 for members, $15/family; $8 for nonmembers, $25/family.
Snowshoe Rentals
Don’t let cabin fever get the best of you this winter season. Come to The Woods and try out our snowshoes! Although Baltimore Woods is too hilly for cross country skiing, it is great for snowshoeing. We have different sized snowshoes, including kid’s sizes. We offer snowshoe programs if you are a first timer and want some instruction, or if you just want a guided walk. Snowshoe Rental Information: Free for members, $5/day for nonmember
Visit Baltimore Woods Nature Center’s website at www.baltimorewoods.org for more information about these and other winter programs and events. To register, please call (315) 673-1350.