​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Upcoming Public Programs

 

Return to Okeeheelee

Reservations are required for ALL programs (unless otherwise noted). All participants are required to sign a Program Participation Form before each program.

Activities promote environmental awareness, conservation, recreation, and educate on health and wellness in the community​.

Benefits of attending a program at Okeeheelee Nature Center
• Environmental Awareness: Exposure to nature fosters a greater appreciation for the environment.
• Mental Health: Nature-based activities have been shown to improve mental health by reducing stress and boosting self-esteem. 
• Creativity and Imagination: Being in nature stimulates creativity and imagination. 
• Physical Health: Engaging in outdoor activities improves physical health. 
• Skill Development: Participants learn new skills and improve existing ones, enhancing their overall competence and confidence.

TO REGISTER and MAKE PAYMENT for PROGRAMS:
Online - Select the “Online Services” tab at the top of this page and click on Register/Pay for Program; Login with your username and password. (New users must create a household account online-please follow online instructions)

In Person - Visit the nature center during operating hours.

Recently participated in a program at Okeeheelee Nature Center? Take our program survey​!​
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MONTHLY

ANIMAL FEEDINGS
Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, 3:30 p.m. 
Families/all ages, FREE (No reservations required)

ALLIGATOR FEEDINGS
Saturdays, 1:00 p.m. 
Families/all ages, FREE (No reservations required)

​JANUARY

ARCHERY FOR BEGINNERS
Saturday, January 18, 10:00-11:30 a.m.
Ages 8+, $10/participant (Reservations required)
Join USA Archery certified instructors and learn the basics of archery, from safety to shooting, and develop a great new skill to focus your mind on a single target. All equipment is provided. Space is limited, so register today!

SOUTH FLORIDA HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY
Saturday, January 18, 1:30-4:30 p.m.
Families/all ages, FREE (No reservations required)
Join the South Florida Herpetological Society for their partner meeting and program to learn more about reptiles and amphibians. The South Florida Herpetological Society (SFHS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the conservation and understanding of reptiles and amphibians.  
 
SUPERSTARS OF THE NIGHT
Tuesday, January 21, 6:00-7:30 p.m.
Ages 8+, $5/participant (Reservations required)
Naturalists will lead the group on a relaxing night hike to search for the superstars of the night– nocturnal animals! Participants will explore the night sky with telescopes. Rain or shine, get excited to learn with our special guests from the Astronomical Society of the Palm Beaches on a crescent moon evening!

​FEBRUARY

RAPTOR DAY FOR NATURE PHOTOGRAPHERS
Saturday, February 1, 8:30-10:00 a.m.  
Rain Date: Saturday, March 1, 8:30-10:00 a.m.
Ages 12+, $45/participant (Reservations required)
Support the Friends of Okeeheelee Nature Center as they host their 10th Annual Fundraiser, “Raptor Day for Nature Photographers.” All proceeds from this fundraising event will benefit the ambassador animals, exhibits and programs at ONC and are tax deductible. Tickets can be purchased on the Friends of Okeeheelee Nature Center’s website. This event is not wheelchair accessible.

FLORIDA TRAIL ASSOCIATION
Saturday, February 1, 3:00-4:30 p.m.
Families/all ages, FREE (No reservations required)
Join the Florida Trail Association’s Loxahatchee Chapter for their monthly meeting and program, featuring guest speakers from environmental organizations. Join at 3:00 p.m. to chat with members about the club and enjoy light refreshments.

ONC VISITS THE LIBRARY: WORLD WETLANDS DAY
Tuesday, February 4, 3:00-3:45 p.m.
Families/all ages, FREE (Pre-registration required**)
Join ONC Naturalists at the Wellington Library as we celebrate World Wetlands Day! Meet some native Florida animals who call the wetlands their home and learn more about this crucial ecosystem. **Call the Wellington Library at 561-790-6070 or visit www.pbclibrary.org​ for more details.**

PALM BEACH PACK & PADDLE CLUB
Saturday, February 8, 2:00-4:00 p.m.
Families/all ages, FREE (No reservations required)
Join Palm Beach Pack & Paddle Club for their monthly meeting and program, featuring guest speakers from local organizations presenting on nature-related subjects and other environmental topics of interest. 

DEER-LY LOVED HEARTS & CRAFTS
Saturday, February 15, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Families/all ages, $5/participant (Reservations required)
Are you fawned of white-tailed deer? Join us for a heart-filled Valentine’s Day craft and an opportunity to meet and greet with the deer of Okeeheelee Nature Center.

ARCHERY FOR BEGINNERS
Saturday, February 22, 10:00-11:30 a.m.
Ages 8+, $10/participant (Reservations required)
Join USA Archery certified instructors and learn the basics of archery, from safety to shooting, and develop a great new skill to focus your mind on a single target. All equipment is provided. Space is limited, so register today!