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WAKE, NC · WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2026 · PARKS & REC

Nature Lab: Critters Up Close

Have you ever wondered what wildlife is living in the park, hiding in plain sight?

parksnatureRegistration required

The entrance arch of a North Carolina state park, woodcut illustration

Fig. 01 — Cypress Shelter at Harris Lake County Park

About the event

Have you ever wondered what wildlife is living in the park, hiding in plain sight? In this outdoor drop-off program, we will discover what creatures are living underground, in the water, and up in the trees through pond netting, log rolling, and more. We'll use microscopes and other scientific tools to take an even closer look at these critters, and even get to interact with our ambassador animals. Join us for an awesome animal adventure! For ages 7-11. Bring a snack, lunch, and a full water bottle, and wear closed-toe shoes. Meet at the Cypress Shelter.

Schedule: Jun 17, 2026 Wednesday from 9am to 1pm

Duration: 4 hours

Ages: Age at least 7 yrs but less than 12 yrs,

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Storytime with Kelly Starling Lyons: Ellen's Broom

Join author Kelly Starling Lyons on August 1 at 2 p.m. to listen to her illustrated children’s book Ellen's Broom, and learn about the story's background and the author's inspiration. Participants will enjoy a powerful story about preserving strong family ties in the face of injustice, the merging of new and old traditions, and the history of "jumping the broom." For a reminder of these important lessons, each participant will make a mini-broom pencil to take home! Free and open to all ages but recommended for ages 5–10. Registration is required for all participating children, and all kids must have a supervising adult(s). The program will take place indoors in the park's climate-controlled Main House, followed by a craft activity. Schedule: Aug 1, 2026 Saturday from 2pm to 3pm Duration: 1 hour Ages: All ages,

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