We always encourage people to spend time at Lake Hope State Park but this Saturday there will be enough fun things to do to literally spend the entire day. Like Hummingbirds? Like wagon rides? How about a movie under the stars? Check out this Saturday schedule!
9 a.m. Hummingbird Banding Program with Allen Chartier – One of the foremost experts on hummingbirds will be at the park to conduct his annual banding program. Allen captures these tiny creatures, takes their vitals, bands them and then sets them free. All the while, he talks with park guests, gives them an intimate view of the birds and educates guests about how to interact with hummingbirds at home. Following the banding program, Allen will give a presentation on his research into these fascinating winged friends. This is free but donations to the Friends of Lake Hope are accepted.
1-3 p.m. Handfeeding Hummingbirds Program – This is Lake Hope’s signature event! Naturalist Terri will help visitors make tiny feeders and teach them how to stand or sit perfectly still so the hummingbirds will eat from your hand! This is one of those once-in-a-lifetime events you won’t want to miss. This is a free program but donations to the Friends of Lake Hope are accepted. While you are the Nature Center be sure to check out the snakes, turtles, games and other attractions they offer that are appropriate for kids 0-99.
3-6 p.m. Wagon Rides with John Hutchinson – The Friends of Lake Hope are hosting Mr. John Hutchinson every Saturday in July. For just $2 per person you can take an approximate 20 minute ride in John’s horsedrawn wagon. John’s horses are beautiful and John loves to meet and greet visitors.
9 p.m. Outdoor showing of “Mirror, Mirror” – When was the last time you saw a movie while sitting under the stars? The Nature Center shows a Disney movie in their outdoor ampitheater every Saturday night during the summer. This weekend’s movie is a new release, a comedy starring Julia Roberts. This is free but donations to the Friends of Lake Hope are accepted.
During your breaks during the day, you can hang out at the beach, take a hike, pack a picnic or head over to the Boat House where the fine folks from Uncle Buck’s Riding Stable and Dance Barn serve tasty food to hungry park guests.
Also remember some other attractions in the Lake Hope area include Zaleski Candleworks, Zaleski Creations, a Quilt Barn tour and Uncle Buck’s Riding Stable and Dance Barn. In fact, Uncle Buck’s will have live music that night starting at 8 p.m. along with their famous bbq.
Doesn’t that sound like a fun use of Saturday? You can do chores some other day! You can grocery shop later! When else will you have a chance to do all these fun things in a single day? Have questions about park activities? Call the Nature Center at 740-596-3030.