Programs & Events

Discover, Celebrate, Explore

From hands-on weekend programs to summer camps to seasonal celebrations, there’s always something happening at the Rye Nature Center. Explore our events, connect with nature, and create lasting memories with friends and family in every season. Whether you're attending one of our signature annual events or joining a weekend program, adventure awaits.

Program & Event Calendar

Annual Celebrations

Old Fashioned Winters Afternoon

Nature Access Fund Benefit Dinner

2025 info coming soon!

Oktoberfest

Weekend & Public Programs

All Programs and Events
Family Campout Fall
Sep 20
Family Campout Fall

This is the perfect way to introduce your family to the joys of camping. Bring your own tent or borrow one of ours (supplies limited) the price includes dinner, breakfast, and a guided hike.

This event is for members only

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Pollinator Pathway
Sep 24
Pollinator Pathway

Learn how to best support the needs of pollinators that are vital to our environment and food sources. Join Rye and the surrounding region to create a Pollinator Pathway network of pollinator-friendly habitats.

FREE

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The Great Leaf Hunt Begins
Oct 1
The Great Leaf Hunt Begins

Throughout October, we will be looking for the largest leaf! The winning leaf will be on display here at our museum.

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The Great Leaf Hunt Celebration
Nov 1
The Great Leaf Hunt Celebration

Come celebrate the conclusion of the Great Leaf Hunt!

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Pumpkin Smash and Composting
Nov 8
Pumpkin Smash and Composting

Join us for a fun, hands-on hour where we turn post-Halloween pumpkins into compost gold and celebrate sustainability.

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47 for 47 Acres Day
Nov 11
47 for 47 Acres Day

School’s out, so bring the family to Rye Nature Center for an afternoon of fall fun! This special hiking experience invites you to explore the beautiful grounds and connect with nature.

Survival Skills
Nov 15
Survival Skills

Discover the ancient art and science of fire-making in this hands-on workshop where participants will explore different traditional fire-starting methods.

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Turkey Hike
Nov 22
Turkey Hike

Join us for a walk through the woods as we explore the secret life of wild turkeys!

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Mistletoe Magic
Nov 30
Mistletoe Magic

The Chamber of Commerce will once again transform Purchase Street into a winter wonderland, offering fun activities, performers, crafts, and games for the entire family.

Animal Meet and Greet
Jan 3
Animal Meet and Greet

Join us for a meet and greet with the Nature Center animals! Children and families will get to learn about our resident mammals, reptiles, and birds.

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Campfire, Cocoa, S’mores, and Stories
Jan 10
Campfire, Cocoa, S’mores, and Stories

Enjoy a cozy hour around the campfire with nature-based stories and a sweet treat.

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Build a Better Birdfeeder
Jan 31
Build a Better Birdfeeder

Learn which birds stay for winter, what they eat, and how to help them thrive in cold months.

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Moss and Lichen Hike
Feb 7
Moss and Lichen Hike

Step into the world of mosses and lichens on this observation-focused hike.

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Maple Sugaring
Feb 14
Maple Sugaring

Learn how to tap a maple tree! Families will learn about the process of creating maple syrup and get a tour of our Sugar Shed.

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Maple Sugaring Afterschool Workshop
Feb 17
Maple Sugaring Afterschool Workshop

Learn how to tap a maple tree! Families will learn about the process of creating maple syrup and get a tour of our Sugar Shed.

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Pollinator Pathway
Feb 24
Pollinator Pathway

Learn how to best support the needs of pollinators that are vital to our environment and food sources. Join Rye and the surrounding region to create a Pollinator Pathway network of pollinator-friendly habitats.

FREE

REGISTER >

Old Fashion Winter’s Afternoon
Feb 28
Old Fashion Winter’s Afternoon

Join us for a 49-year-old Rye tradition!

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Build a Nest: Bird Architecture
Mar 7
Build a Nest: Bird Architecture

Learn about the clever ways birds build nests using natural materials.

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Maple Sugaring
Mar 14
Maple Sugaring

Learn how to tap a maple tree! Families will learn about the process of creating maple syrup and get a tour of our Sugar Shed.

REGISTER >

Buds, Bark, and Beyond!
Mar 21
Buds, Bark, and Beyond!

Discover how to identify trees just as they begin to wake up in anticipation of the summer months.

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Indoor Seed Starting
Apr 11
Indoor Seed Starting

Get your hands dirty and jumpstart your garden!

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Decomposers in Action
Apr 18
Decomposers in Action

Discover the unsung heroes of the forest hidden under the layers of leaves and logs.

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Trivia Night
Apr 22
Trivia Night

Join us for a night of brain-twisting fun at Rye Nature Center. From pop culture and science to bizarre wildlife facts, our trivia will blow your mind.

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Earth Day Every Day
Apr 25
Earth Day Every Day

Celebrate Earth Month with hands-on activities that inspire sustainability!

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Pollinator Pathway
Apr 25
Pollinator Pathway

Learn how to best support the needs of pollinators that are vital to our environment and food sources. Join Rye and the surrounding region to create a Pollinator Pathway network of pollinator-friendly habitats.

FREE

REGISTER >

Nest and Egg Adventure
May 9
Nest and Egg Adventure

Join us as we search for spring eggs and nests.

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Family Campout Spring
May 16
Family Campout Spring

This is the perfect way to introduce your family to the joys of camping. Bring your own tent or borrow one of ours (supplies limited) the price includes dinner, breakfast, and a guided hike.

This event is for members only

REGISTER >

Birthday Parties

Host your child’s next birthday party in “green” fashion. Friends of Rye Nature Center offers birthday parties that are eco-friendly, educational, and of course a lot of fun! To help make these parties green, we provide reusable tableware, water and a minimalist, natural setting.