Winter Fun Fest

Get your Winter Fun Fest passport stamped
at three events and get a free t-shirt and tote bag!

Many of my readers will know that I am a scout leader for both of my children. My son is now in Boy Scouts and I am his Assistant Scoutmaster and my daughter is a Junior Girl Scout. What makes scouting amazing to me is the amount of outdoor activities the scouts do. The non scouting part of me also likes to be outdoors - Playing sports, hiking, sitting in the woods or foraging for good eats. Basically the outdoors is a big part of our lives.

This winter your family can enjoy the outdoors too during the Winter Fun Fest happening throughout Washtenaw County. Winter Fun Fest runs from January 27th until Feburary 25th with over 20 fun winter events in three weeks! Whether you like warming up by the fireplace with a cup of hot cocoa or tromping through the freshly fallen snow, we've got something for everyone to enjoy.

 At the first event you attend you can pick up your Fun Fest Passport - if you attend three events in the next three weeks, you will win a free T-Shirt or Tote! A full list of Winter Fun Fest events can be found here: http://www.ewashtenaw.org/government/departments/parks_recreation/activities/winter-fun-fest/calendar-of-events-winter-fun-fest

Did I mention that these are free events? Certainly there may be some parks that require an entry fee but get ready to have some free fun with the family!

Night Hike and Campfire at Independence Lake

Spend a spring evening under the stars with a night hike and
campfire at Independence Lake!

On Saturday, April 7 make sure to take a short drive to Independence Lake for a night hike. This free program through the Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation will allow the kids to look and listen for signs of spring. Hear frogs, cranes, woodcock and other wildlife that is meandering through the night.

The hike should last an hour and will be followed by a campfire where families can share some marshmallows and stories around the fire.

The program is free except for vehicle entry fees into the park. Hikers start at 8:00 p.m. at the Beach Center. Hope for a clear sky and maybe you'll see the moon rise.

Recycle Ann Arbor Earth Day Video Contest

Is your teen passionate about recycling? Recycle Ann Arbor, is asking teens in grades 6-8 to enter the 2012 Earth Day Video Contest. Students are encouraged to create a video on “Why I Recycle.”
The first-prize winner will receive a $500 U.S. savings bond, and a free recycling workshop for their class. Four honorable mention awards will also be given, each honorable mention winner will receive a $50 gift certificate for Nicola’s Books. Videos should be no longer than three minutes, and should be received by March 30.