Joliet, Marquette Adventure Highlights Forest Preserve’s Christmas Week Programs

Here are the Forest Preserve District of Will County programs for the week of December 25. Online registration is available on the Event Calendar at ReconnectWithNature.org.

Four Rivers Story Trail, from 8 a.m. to sunset, December 26 – January 9, Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, Channahon: Read the story “Best in Snow” along the trail and see for yourself the creatures that are active in winter. At each stop, there will be one-to-two pages to read. Free, all ages.

Holiday Owl Prowl for Adults, from 4 – 6 p.m., Thursday, December 28, Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve, Crete Township: Discover which owls can be found in Illinois, then enjoy a guided hike on the trail to listen for owls. Free, ages 18 or older. Register by December 27.

Quest – A Joliet and Marquette Adventure for Families, from 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Thursday, December 28, Isle a la Cache Museum, Romeoville: Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the history of famous explorers, fur trader Louis Joliet and Jesuit missionary Jacques Marquette. Groups or “canoes” will examine maps from the time, choose supplies, and see how their choices help or hinder them on their journey. Participants are encouraged to either sign up as a group or come solo; not all crews knew each other before traveling! This is a great opportunity to bond as a group or make new friends. Oh, and don’t travel on an empty stomach. Bison jerky and other themed snacks will be available. Two interpretive naturalists from Isle a la Cache will share direct quotes from Marquette’s journal, answer questions, and guide you on your quest. Whether you like trivia, choose-your-own-adventure games, history, or challenges, this is a unique way to put yourself into the past. Free, ages 10 or older. Register by December 27.

Tree Therapy for Teens, from noon – 1:30 p.m., Friday, December 29, Isle a la Cache Museum, Romeoville: Take a break from holiday chaos and join an interpretive naturalist for a short wander through the woods, followed by hot chocolate, tea, and cider in the Traders Cabin. Free, ages 13-18. Register by December 27; a waiver must be completed for all minors.