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Programs This Week
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Information for School Groups.
Delaware State Parks offer exciting programs for families and individuals. Enjoy crafts, learn about Delaware's Heritage or explore the parks' natural wonders. Many programs require pre-registration. Call the specific park you plan to visit for details.
Programs This Week
Summer Concert
Thursday, September 02, 2010
- LOCATION: White Clay Creek
- TIME: 6 p.m.
Johnny Cash Experience
Rescheduled from August 18
Bring your picnic supper, blanket or lawn chairs for lively and diverse outdoor concerts at the band stage in Carpenter Recreation Area. Call the Nature Center for updates or weather delays. Visit the Summer Concert Series page.
Stargazing at the Seashore
Friday, September 03, 2010
- LOCATION: Delaware Seashore
- TIME: 8 – 10 p.m.
Enjoy a relaxing evening under that stars! Learn how to navigate around the night sky and hear some of the ancient stories about the constellations. A telescope, star maps, and binoculars will be provided– feel free to bring your own blanket and pillow as this is the only park program you can enjoy lying down! Please do not bring a flashlight, as participants’ eyes will need to adjust to the dark. This program meets at the Indian River Life-Saving Station. Please pre-register by calling (302) 227-6991 no later than 4 p.m. on the day of the program. $5 per person
Lantern Tour of the Dover Green
Friday, September 03, 2010
- LOCATION: First State Heritage Park
- TIME: 8 p.m.
Meet at the Biggs Museum – 406 Federal Street
Follow us through historic Dover and her cemeteries by lantern light this fall. Hear tales of the most infamous resident of Dover’s jail, devastating fires that threatened the town, poisonings, tragic love and the auctioning of slaves on the steps of the Old State House. Space is limited; call (302) 739-9194 to reserve your lantern! $5 per person
First Friday: First State Heritage Park Lantern Tour
Friday, September 03, 2010
- LOCATION: First State Heritage Park
- TIME: 8 p.m.
Tour the Dover Green. $5 per person. For reservations, please call (302) 739-9194.
First State Heritage Park partners offer First Friday activities in collaboration with the “First Friday” events sponsored by the Downtown Dover Partnership.
First Friday: Biggs Museum of American Art
Friday, September 03, 2010
- LOCATION: First State Heritage Park
- TIME: 2 – 4:30 p.m.
Self-guided History of Delaware tour through the museum’s permanent galleries. Free.
First State Heritage Park partners offer First Friday activities in collaboration with the “First Friday” events sponsored by the Downtown Dover Partnership.
Stargazing at the Seashore
Friday, September 03, 2010
- LOCATION: Indian River Life-Saving Station
- TIME: 8:00:00 PM
Enjoy a relaxing evening under that stars! Learn how to navigate around the night sky and hear some of the ancient stories about the constellations. A telescope, star maps, and binoculars will be provided – feel free to bring your own blanket and pillow as this is the only park program you can enjoy lying down! Please do not bring a flashlight, as participants’ eyes will need to adjust to the dark. This program meets at the Indian River Life-Saving Station. Please pre-register by calling (302) 227-6991 no later than 4:00 p.m. on the day of the program. $5 per person
Evening Pontoon Tour
Friday, September 03, 2010
- LOCATION: Trap Pond
- TIME: 5 p.m.
Come out and enjoy the Baldcypress Swamp on our leisurely boat tour of Trap Pond. We will talk about one of our most famous residents, the baldcypress tree. Space is limited. Theses one-hour trips will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis at the Boathouse. Call the Nature Center to make special arrangements for large groups. $6 for adults, $3 for children 12 and under
Owl Prowl
Saturday, September 04, 2010
- LOCATION: Brandywine Creek
- TIME: 7 p.m.
Following an introduction to the owls of Delaware, head out into the night to listen for some of the park’s resident owls. Bring your sense of adventure, but no flashlights please! $4 per person, minimum 5 participants, registration deadline one week before program date. Recommended for ages 6 and up.
Lantern Tours of Fort Miles
Saturday, September 04, 2010
- LOCATION: Cape Henlopen
- TIME: 1900 – 2030 (7 – 8:30 p.m.)
Tour the Fort Miles Gun Battery by lantern light with an historical interpreter. Hear some of the true stories and learn how Fort Miles defended our coast 24/7 during World War II. Limited to 30. Pre-registration is required. Program is suitable for ages 8 and older; children must be accompanied by a paying adult. Meet at the Orientation Building in the Fort Miles Historic Area. Call the Seaside Nature Center at (302) 645-6852 to pre-register. $5 per person
Battery 519 Museum Tours
Saturday, September 04, 2010
- LOCATION: Cape Henlopen
- TIME: 1400 – 1530 (2 – 3:30 p.m.)
Join an historical interpreter for a guided tour of a World War II coastal defense gun battery. See the updates and renovations to this historic site as you learn about the history of Fort Miles and the future plans for the Fort Miles Historic Area. Limited to 30. Pre-registration is required. Program is suitable for ages 8 and older; children must be accompanied by a paying adult. Meet at the Orientation Building in the Fort Miles Historic Area. Call the Seaside Nature Center at (302) 645-6852 to pre-register. $5 per person
Kayak Rentals at the Fishing Pier
Saturday, September 04, 2010
- LOCATION: Cape Henlopen
- TIME: 12:30 – 4 p.m.
Rentals include PFD, seat and paddle. Renters must have paddling experience. Bring water and sunscreen. Closed-toe shoes are required. Solo paddlers must be 13 years or older. Paddlers 8 – 12 years old must be in a tandem kayak with a parent. For more information, call (302) 645-6852. Single and tandem sit-on-top: $15 per person per hour
Seining the Bay
Saturday, September 04, 2010
- LOCATION: Cape Henlopen
- TIME: 9 – 10:30 a.m.
Have fun getting wet collecting and learning about Delaware Bay creatures. Participants must wear secure shoes during the program – no flip-flops! No advanced registration required. For ages 5 and up; limited to 30 participants. Maximum of six tickets per person. $5 per person
Delaware Breakwater Kayak Trips
Saturday, September 04, 2010
- LOCATION: Cape Henlopen
- TIME: 10 a.m. – Noon
Paddle a sit-on-top kayak inside the Delaware Breakwater. Participants will be led by informative and experienced naturalists who provide basic instruction before heading out. Beginner paddlers are welcome, but these trips can be strenuous depending on wind and water conditions. All equipment is provided. Bring water and sunscreen. Closed-toe shoes are required. Limited to 10. Pre-registration is required; call (302) 645-6852. Solo paddlers must be 13 years or older. Paddlers 8 – 12 years old must be in a tandem kayak with a parent. $25 per solo-kayaker, $35 per tandem
First Saturday in the First State: A Stately Transformation
Saturday, September 04, 2010
- LOCATION: First State Heritage Park
- TIME: 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
The Old State House
Explore the many physical transformations that have been made to The Old State House since its completion in 1791, and learn how Mabel Lloyd Ridgely halted the destruction of this majestic structure.
First Saturday in the First State: Segway Tours of First State Heritage Park’s Historic Sites
Saturday, September 04, 2010
- LOCATION: First State Heritage Park
- TIME: 11:30 a.m.
Tours leave from the First State Heritage Park Welcome Center
Admission charged. For prices and reservations visit: www.SegZoneTours.com.
First Saturday in the First State: Dover’s Heroes of the Revolution Walking Tour
Saturday, September 04, 2010
- LOCATION: First State Heritage Park
- TIME: 2 p.m.
Meet at Christ Church, at the corner of South State and Water Streets
From the monuments of Christ Church to those of the Old Presbyterian Churchyard, visit the graves and former residences of Dover’s Revolutionary War heroes. Hear their stories and remember their sacrifices.
First Saturday in the first State: Biggs Kids – Woodland Vases
Saturday, September 04, 2010
- LOCATION: First State Heritage Park
- TIME: 2 – 3 p.m.
Biggs Museum of American Art
What child can resist picking up sticks during a walk through the woods? Bring 10 sticks (1/4” diameter) collected by your child to decorate a woodland vase. For ages 5 – 10. Reservations required. Please call (302) 674-2111.
First Saturday in the First State: Guided Tours of Legislative Hall
Saturday, September 04, 2010
- LOCATION: First State Heritage Park
- TIME: 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (Last tour leaves at 4 p.m.)
Tour the House and Senate Chambers as you learn about the legislature and Delaware history. Photo ID is required for all adults. Free.
First Saturday in the First State: Tours of the Governor’s House
Saturday, September 04, 2010
- LOCATION: First State Heritage Park
- TIME: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
At Woodburn – The Governor’s House
Enjoy guided tours of Woodburn, the official residence of Delaware’s Governor since 1965, and Hall House, the Governor’s guest house, as well as a self-guided tour of the gardens.
First Saturdays in the First State: Labor and Progress
Saturday, September 04, 2010
- LOCATION: First State Heritage Park
- TIME: 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Johnson Victrola Museum
Explore the demanding trades and proficient skills of early America’s workforce.
First Saturdays in the First State: Tips and Tools for using the United States and Special Census Records
Saturday, September 04, 2010
- LOCATION: First State Heritage Park
- TIME: 10:30 a.m.
Delaware Public Archives
Lay the groundwork for successful family research with this workshop presented by Nancy Lyons. Track your family members decade by decade by using the United States Census to uncover their births, marriages, immigration, naturalization, military service and occupations.
Saturday Walking Tour: Dover’s Heroes of the Revolution
Saturday, September 04, 2010
- LOCATION: First State Heritage Park
- TIME: 2 p.m.
Meet at Christ Church, at the corner of South State and Water Streets
From the monuments of Christ Church to those of the Old Presbyterian Churchyard, visit the graves and former residences of Dover’s Revolutionary War heroes. Hear their stories and remember their sacrifices. Tour is free.
Lantern Tours of Fort Miles
Saturday, September 04, 2010
- LOCATION: Fort Miles
- TIME: 1900 – 2030 (7 – 8:30 p.m.)
Tour the Fort Miles Gun Battery by lantern light with an historical interpreter. Hear some of the true stories and learn how Fort Miles defended our coast 24/7 during World War II. Limited to 30. Pre-registration is required. Program is suitable for ages 8 and older; children must be accompanied by a paying adult. Meet at the Orientation Building in the Fort Miles Historic Area. Call the Seaside Nature Center at (302) 645-6852 to pre-register. $5 per person
Battery 519 Museum Tours
Saturday, September 04, 2010
- LOCATION: Fort Miles
- TIME: 1400 – 1530 (2 – 3:30 p.m.)
Join an historical interpreter for a guided tour of a World War II coastal defense gun battery. See the updates and renovations to this historic site as you learn about the history of Fort Miles and the future plans for the Fort Miles Historic Area. Limited to 30. Pre-registration is required. Program is suitable for ages 8 and older; children must be accompanied by a paying adult. Meet at the Orientation Building in the Fort Miles Historic Area. Call the Seaside Nature Center at (302) 645-6852 to pre-register. $5 per person
Fall Hayride
Saturday, September 04, 2010
- LOCATION: Killens Pond
- TIME: 8 PM
Join us for an old-fashioned hayride through the beautiful crisp fall foliage of the park. Afterward, we’ll roast marshmallows around the campfire. Public hayrides are $4 per person. Private hayrides are available for $80 an hour and can be arranged by calling (302) 284-4299. Meet at the Campground Amphitheater. Pre-registration is a must!
Fall Hayride
Saturday, September 04, 2010
- LOCATION: Killens Pond
- TIME: 7 PM
Ride the trails of Killens Pond in style in our rustic hay wagon. Meet at the Campground Amphitheater. $4 per person.
Night Hike
Saturday, September 04, 2010
- LOCATION: Killens Pond
- TIME: 9 PM
Enjoy the night sounds, smells, and “sights” of Killens Pond’s nature trails. Meet at the Campground Amphitheater, $2 per participant.
Holiday Concert
Saturday, September 04, 2010
- LOCATION: Lums Pond
- TIME: 7 – 8 p.m.
Join us at the stagebehind the campground bathhouse for a great outdoor evening of music with Stu Frederick, singer and guitarist playing a variety of musical styles from different eras. Free (park entrance fees in effect for non-campers).
Green Hour: Wildlife Watch
Saturday, September 04, 2010
- LOCATION: Lums Pond
- TIME: 11 a.m.
Join us as we look for signs of wildlife. The green hour is designed to get kids outdoors and enjoying nature for at least an hour. Join us as we head outdoors for scavenger hunts, hikes and other outdoor activities. Meet at the Nature Center. Free
Park History Boat Tours
Saturday, September 04, 2010
- LOCATION: Trap Pond
- TIME: 10 a.m.
The Trap Pond area has a rich history. Find out about the people who have made their homes here and how Trap Pond became the first state park in Delaware, all while enjoying a scenic tour of the cypress swamp. Space is limited. Theses one-hour trips will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis at the Boathouse. Call the Nature Center to make special arrangements for large groups. $6 for adults, $3 for children 12 and under
Campground Crafts
Saturday, September 04, 2010
- LOCATION: Trap Pond
- TIME: 10 a.m.
Come to the Campground Pavilion and take part in a fun and creative campground craft throughout the summer. $1 per person
Aquatic Mammals Pontoon Tour
Saturday, September 04, 2010
- LOCATION: Trap Pond
- TIME: 2 p.m.
Come out on the pond and discover some of our furry residents. We will be looking for beaver, otter, muskrats, and other mammals that call Trap Pond home. Space is limited. Theses one-hour trips will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis at the Boathouse. Call the Nature Center to make special arrangements for large groups. $6 for adults, $3 for children 12 and under
History Tour: Rural Resettlement Administration
Saturday, September 04, 2010
- LOCATION: Trap Pond
- TIME: 9 a.m.
Find out the roots of Trap Pond State Park. Learn about the Rural Resettlement Administration, the Civilian Conservation Corps and other programs of the Great Depression. Meet at the Boathouse for this 45-minute hike.
Steamin’ Days
Sunday, September 05, 2010
- LOCATION: Auburn Heights
- TIME: 12:30 – 4 p.m.
Join the Friends of Auburn Heights for a family-friendly event full of fun, education and amazing technology from the turn of the century. Your event ticket gives you admission to the Marshall Steam Museum, fresh steam-popped popcorn, rides on antique vehicles (including Stanley Steamers) and rides on the 1/8-size railroad. Tours of Auburn Heights, the Marshall family mansion, will also be available for an additional fee. The mansion tours will be limited, so arrive early to get your ticket! $10 per person ages 12 and up, $7 per person ages 2 to 12. Discounts and combination tickets are available. Visit the Auburn Heights website, or call for more information.
Programs at Flint Woods Nature Preserve: Cicada Frenzy
Sunday, September 05, 2010
- LOCATION: Brandywine Creek
- TIME: 1 – 3 p.m.
Visit Flint Woods to search for these interesting insects and discover the magical world of cicadas and why they are so loud! Flint Woods Nature Preserve is a satellite area of Brandywine Creek State Park. Programs at the preserve require transportation from the Nature Center in the park’s van, limiting participation to 12. $2 per person
Volunteer Trail Day
Sunday, September 05, 2010
- LOCATION: Cape Henlopen
- TIME: 9 a.m. – Noon
Join the Friends of Cape Henlopen as they work to maintain the park’s trails, or take on some other light maintenance project. For further details, call the Volunteer Coordinator at (302) 644-5005.
Delaware Breakwater Kayak Trips
Sunday, September 05, 2010
- LOCATION: Cape Henlopen
- TIME: 10 a.m. – Noon
Paddle a sit-on-top kayak inside the Delaware Breakwater. Participants will be led by informative and experienced naturalists who provide basic instruction before heading out. Beginner paddlers are welcome, but these trips can be strenuous depending on wind and water conditions. All equipment is provided. Bring water and sunscreen. Closed-toe shoes are required. Limited to 10. Pre-registration is required; call (302) 645-6852. Solo paddlers must be 13 years or older. Paddlers 8 – 12 years old must be in a tandem kayak with a parent. $25 per solo-kayaker, $35 per tandem
Kayak Rentals at the Fishing Pier
Sunday, September 05, 2010
- LOCATION: Cape Henlopen
- TIME: 12:30 – 4 p.m.
Rentals include PFD, seat and paddle. Renters must have paddling experience. Bring water and sunscreen. Closed-toe shoes are required. Solo paddlers must be 13 years or older. Paddlers 8 – 12 years old must be in a tandem kayak with a parent. For more information, call (302) 645-6852. Single and tandem sit-on-top: $15 per person per hour
Lantern Tour
Sunday, September 05, 2010
- LOCATION: Delaware Seashore
- TIME: 8 – 9:30 p.m.
Enjoy a unique, guided lantern tour of the circa-1876 Indian River Life-Saving Station museum by an interpreter in turn-of-the-century Life-Saving Service patrol garb and then walk the same beach where thes urfmen performed their nightly patrols over 100 years ago, scanning the waters for signs of ships in distress. Dress for the weather! Space is limited; pre-registration is required by calling (302) 227-6991. $10 per person
Lantern Tour
Sunday, September 05, 2010
- LOCATION: Indian River Life-Saving Station
- TIME: 8:00:00 PM
Enjoy a unique, guided lantern tour of the circa-1876 Indian River Life-Saving Station museum by an interpreter in turn-of-the-century Life-Saving Service patrol garb and then walk the same beach where the surfmen performed their nightly patrols over 100 years ago, scanning the waters for signs of ships in distress. Dress for the weather! Space is limited; pre-registration is required by calling (302) 227-6991. $10 per person
Fall Hayrides
Sunday, September 05, 2010
- LOCATION: Killens Pond
- TIME: 6 and 7 p.m.
Join us for an old-fashioned hayride through the beautiful crisp fall foliage of the park. Afterward, we’ll roast marshmallows around the campfire. Public hayrides are $4 per person. Private hayrides are available for $80 an hour and can be arranged by calling (302)284-4299. Meet at the Campground Amphitheater. Pre-registration is a must!
Wildlife from the Water
Sunday, September 05, 2010
- LOCATION: Trap Pond
- TIME: 10 a.m.
One of the best places to see wildlife is right along the water's edge. What better place to see the wildlife of the park than from a touring pontoon boat? We will explore the pond in search of animals feeding and drinking, and some just wading around. Space is limited. Theses one-hour trips will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis at the Boathouse. Call the Nature Center to make special arrangements for large groups. $6 for adults, $3 for children 12 and under
Pontoon Grab Bag
Sunday, September 05, 2010
- LOCATION: Trap Pond
- TIME: 2 p.m.
Come out each Sunday afternoon and learn about a different subject. An eclectic selection will have you wanting to attend every week. Meet at the Boathouse. Space is limited. Theses one-hour trips will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis at the Boathouse. Call the Nature Center to make special arrangements for large groups. $6 for adults, $3 for children 12 and under
Stream Hikes
Sunday, September 05, 2010
- LOCATION: Trap Pond
- TIME: 9 a.m.
Follow a tributary of the Nanticoke River on this easy hike. Find out about Trap Pond’s connection to the Chesapeake, and learn things you can do to help preserve the Bay. Meet at the Boathouse.
Dover Green National Register Historic District Walking Tour
Monday, September 06, 2010
- LOCATION: First State Heritage Park
- TIME: 2 p.m.
Meet at the First State Heritage Park Welcome Center
For 300 years, The Green has been the center of commerce, politics and civic life in Dover. Hear stories of the people and events that left their mark on Dover’s history.First State Heritage Park
Labor Day Crafts
Monday, September 06, 2010
- LOCATION: Trap Pond
- TIME: 10 a.m.
Come out and make a natural craft at the Campground Pavilion. $1 per craft
Labor Day Pontoon Tours
Monday, September 06, 2010
- LOCATION: Trap Pond
- TIME: 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
The Trap Pond area has a rich history. Find out about the people who have made their home here and how Trap Pond became the first state park in Delaware all while enjoying a scenic tour of the cypress swamp. Space is limited. Theses one-hour trips will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis at the Boathouse. Call the Nature Center to make special arrangements for large groups. $6 for adults, $3 for children 12 and under
Labor Day Concert
Monday, September 06, 2010
- LOCATION: White Clay Creek
- TIME: 3 p.m.
Join us for our 3rd Annual Labor Day Concert with Almost Fab (Beatles Tribute Band).
Wee Have Fun Club: What’s Making that Noise?
Thursday, September 09, 2010
- LOCATION: Bellevue
- TIME: 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Ages 3 – 5
Nature discoveries, stories and art projects are all part of the fun! Whenever possible, we will venture outside, so please dress accordingly. The fee for this program is $3 per child. Walk-ins are welcome. These programs meet at the Arts Center, with the exception of our Fall Colors Hayride, which meets at the Percheron Barn.
Terrific Toddlers: Crazy Critters
Thursday, September 09, 2010
- LOCATION: Brandywine Creek
- TIME: 9:30 – 10:15 a.m.
Every toddler loves animals! Get a chance to meet some and learn the difference between mammals, reptiles and amphibians. Activities, crafts, short hikes and informal lessons are part of the fun. Pre-registration and pre-payment are encouraged. Walk-ins are welcome if space is available. For 2- to 3-year-olds. Limited to 10 children. $5 per child
Nature Explorers Club: Curious About Wildlife
Thursday, September 09, 2010
- LOCATION: Brandywine Creek
- TIME: 1:30 – 2:15 p.m.
Let’s spend some time outside and get to know about the animals that live in and around Brandywine. We’ll take an amphibian hike and make a “froggy” craft. fun games! Activities, crafts, short hikes and informal lessons are part of the fun. Pre-registration and pre-payment are encouraged. Walk-ins are welcome if space is available. For 4- to 6-year-olds. Limited to 10 children. $5 per child
Lunch and Learn: Wild, Wonderful Wetlands
Thursday, September 09, 2010
- LOCATION: Cape Henlopen
- TIME: Noon – 1 p.m.
Discover the valuable and secret life that lurks in marshy, swampy land. Bring your lunch and we’ll provide coffee and dessert. Pre-registration is required. $3 per person