The weather has been breaking in a way that makes you want to get out there – even if you have to wear a sweater – what with the Florida cold spell.
While many local parks are still closed there are some activities offered by Pasco Parks at Jay B. Starkey, Crews Lake Wilderness and Withlacoochee River Parks.
Of special note is the National Audubon Christmas Bird County which this year happens on Tuesday, December 17 for those who might want to volunteer for that. Add to that birding and biking ventures, archery, gardening seminars and more. Check it out below.
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December 1-7
December 8 – 14
December 15 – 21
December 22 – 31
Library Fitness Classes
Markets
December 1 – 7
Family Night Out, 5:39 – 8:30 p.m. Friday, December 6 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in NPR | $15
This evening program will feature a guided night hike through the park’s enchanting trails, where families will search for glowing creatures and learn about the park’s nocturnal wildlife. Enjoy campfire songs, bat “listening,” and delicious s’mores by the fire. This program is designed for families to bond, explore, and experience the wonders of the outdoors after dark. Register with Pasco Parks & Rec.
Light Up The Night Annual Tree Lighting Event, 6-9 p.m. Friday, December 6 at Sims Park in New Port Richey
Kick off the season with the official tree lighting at 6 p.m. followed by an evening filled with festive fun for the whole family. Event Highlights:
Tree Lighting Ceremony, Holiday Crafts & Games, Train Rides, Pictures with Santa. Food Trucks.
Pasco Audubon Nature Walk, 8 a.m. Saturday, December 7 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in NPR | Free
Meet at the Education Center for a 1 – 3 mile walk. These Audubon hikes are held regularly on the first Saturday of each month.
Bees & Beekeeping, 11 a.m. Saturday, December 7 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in NPR | Free
This seminar will be presented by Bob Burkard at the J. B. Starkey Education Center
December 8 – 14
Winter Wonderland Walk, 9 – 11 a.m. Sunday, December 8 at Crews Lake Wilderness Park in Spring Hill | $3
Immerse yourself in the beauty of the great outdoors as you embark on a refreshing journey through this diverse ecosystem. Over the course of 1.5 to 2 hours, our knowledgeable guide will lead you through the park, sharing fascinating insights about the flora and fauna that call this area home. Register with Pasco Parks & Rec.
Create Your Own Holiday Wreath Hike, 2- 4:30 p.m. Sunday, December 8 at at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in NPR | $5
On this guided hike, participants will explore the park’s scenic trails while learning about the natural surroundings. During the hike, you’ll have the chance to select your very own native vines, which you will twist and shape to make it uniquely yours. Register with Pasco Parks & Rec.
Master Gardener Seminar | How to Build Raised Beds, 6 – 7:30 p.m. Monday, December 9 at the Regency Park Library in NPR | Free
learn all the basics to building and maintaining raised bed gardens in this seminar presented by UF\IFAS Extension Pasco.
The presentation will discuss the advantages to raised bed gardens, how to find the best location in your yard, different methods and materials for the construction, how to prep the area before you start construction, best types of irrigation, the best material to fill the bed, and most importantly how and what to do to maintain good soil health
Tiny Trekkers Craft, 10 – 11 a.m. Tuesday, December 10 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in NPR | Ages 1 – 6 | $5
Little explorers will have the chance to craft their own reindeer, using natural materials and learning about the history of this fun Florida craft. This hands-on activity will spark creativity and introduce children to the wonders of nature and local traditions. This program will take place at Shelter 6. Please arrive 5-10 minutes early to check in and come dressed in your favorite holiday outfits (that parents are okay with getting paint or glue on) Register with Pasco Parks & Rec.
New Port Richey Library Riverside Concert Series “The Sounds of Sinatra”, 6 p.m. December 13 in Sims Park in downtown NPR | Free
The music series closes 2024 with a terrific Frank Sinatra tribute from Brooklyn native, Bill Stabile.
Count on hearing the hits of Frank Sinatra in this show entitled, “Songs of Sinatra – A Tribute to Ol’ Blue Eyes”. During his performance, Bill reflects upon the musical career and personal life of the legendary singer. He incorporates Sinatra’s style, swagger, and mannerisms in a way that makes it a fun event for all! This performance will take place in the southwest corner of Sims Park, near the Grassin Bridge. Please feel free to bring your own camp chair or blanket for seating.
Birding By Bike with Pasco Audubon, 8 a.m. Saturday, December 14 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in NPR | Free
Meet at Starkey Education Center. For information on this event and what you might need to bring, contact Robertburkard9@gmail.com
December 15 – 21
Propagation Hike, 9 – 11 a.m. Sunday, December 15 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in NPR | $3
Participants will find and collect native propagatable plants along the Nature Trail. This hike will last between 1.5-2 hours. Register with Pasco Parks & Rec.
Pine Needle Basket Weaving-Beginner, 2 – 4:30 p.m. Sunday, December 15 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in NPR | $5
Pasco Parks & Rec hosts this a family-friendly workshop on creating primitive pine needle baskets using natural materials. Please note that the activity can be tough on the hands and may not be suitable for those with a weak grip. All supplies will be provided. Register with Pasco Parks & Rec.
Master Gardener Seminar | Care of Holiday Plants, 2 – 3 p.m. Monday, December 16 at the Centennial Park Library in Holiday | Free
Learn how to keep your festive plants fresh and blooming throughout the holidays, well into the new year and beyond. Presented by the UF|IFAS Extension of Pasco.
125nd Annual National Audubon Christmas Bird Count, Tuesday, December 17 in Pasco County | Free
You can be part of this annual event which starts at 12:01 a.m. om the 17th. For information, Contact Christine Rowland president@pascoaudubon.com if you want to join the count.
TWO DAYS | TWO LOCATIONS! Master Gardener Seminar | Care of Holiday Plants, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, December 17 at the New Port Richey Public Library in NPR and 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Wednesday, December 18 at the Starkey Ranch Library | Free
Learn how to keep your festive plants fresh and blooming throughout the holidays, well into the new year and beyond. Presented by the UF|IFAS Extension of Pasco.
Pasco Astronomers Stargazing Night, 6 – 8 p.m. Saturday, December 21 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in NPR | Free
Members of the Pasco Astronomers Club will st up telescopes for viewing in the field near the entrance of the Park.
December 22 – 31
LIBRARY FITNESS CLASSES
- Walk & Talk Club, 10 – 11 a.m. Mondays at the NPR Public Library in downtown New Port Richey.
- Exploring Movement & Meditation, 5:15 – 6 p.m. Tuesdays at the Regency Park Library in NPR.
- Kids Yoga, 11 – 11:45 a.m. Wednesdays at the NPR Public Library.
- Mindful Chair Yoga, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Thursdays at the Centennial Park Library in Holiday.
- Midday Meditation, 1 – 2 p.m. Fridays at the NPR Public Library.
MARKETS
Tasty Tuesdays Community Market, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. each Tuesday at the New Port Richey Public Library in downtown NPR
Enjoy products from local organic growers in an open-air courtyard, and learn about growing and preparing your own. Hear interesting lectures, view demos and check out non-GMO, heirloom seeds at your NPR Library Seed Bank.
No charge to attend. Now accepting EBT/SNAP benefits! Visit Tasty Tuesdays Facebook Page for info about each week’s specialties.
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