Events

Explore, discover and connect to the natural world through nature journaling at Merry Lea. Nature journaling is the act of noticing what is happening in the beyond-human world around you and recording it in some way – writing, drawing, painting, photography, or a combination of methods. Nature journaling is accessible to anyone, even if you don’t have prior experience with formal art or writing. We’ll spend time both indoors and outdoors observing and journaling. Light snacks and all materials needed will be provided. Dress for being outside in the weather.

What birds are here in the winter? Come find out who is here and learn how to identify the birds! We will be participating in Cornell’s Project FeederWatch. We’ll get to observe and keep track of the birds that visit the feeders.

What birds are here in the winter? Come find out who is here and learn how to identify the birds! We will be participating in Cornell’s Project FeederWatch. We’ll get to observe and keep track of the birds that visit the feeders.

This month, we’ll explore the Glacial Retreat Center with our Environmental Education & Outreach team, walking through portions of our popular field trip route. Along the way, we’ll discover a fascinating geological formation, visit the gravel pit, and even take on the bog jump.

In this beginner-friendly soap making workshop, you’ll learn about the art of turning animal fat into a rich, deeply moisturizing soap. We’ll guide you step-by-step through the process, focusing on how resourcefulness and zero-waste thinking can yield beautiful, high-quality household goods. You’ll leave with the knowledge and confidence to make your own natural soap from scratch.

Join us to read Winter Is Coming by Tony Johnston, Illustrated by Jim LaMarche! We will spend some time outdoors documenting seasonal changes that we see around us. As we explore the trails, we will create a nature journal to take home.

Join us for a guided night hike through the peaceful winter landscape of Merry Lea, where crisp air, quiet trails, and starry skies reveal nature in a whole new way. As darkness settles in, we’ll explore the trails around Kesling Wetland by moonlight, using our senses to discover the sights, sounds, and signs of wildlife active during the winter season.

Looking to spruce up your gift-giving this season? Trade the crowded stores for a cozy, festive day at Merry Lea! Gather the family and join us for Homemade for the Holidays, where we’ll turn natural, locally sourced materials into simple, heartwarming gifts. We'll provide all the natural elements and you bring your creativity! It’s the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit, slow down and make lasting memories together.

What do native seeds need to grow? What is stratification? What do you mean scarification?! Many of our native seeds require different “treatments” in order to grow their best and take root. We will go over a variety of ways to get your native garden growing.

Join Merry Lea’s former land manager for an engaging, hands-on workshop exploring how to identify trees in winter! Learn to recognize native species by their bark, buds, and branching patterns while discovering the unique beauty of Indiana’s winter woodlands.