On Saturday, June 8th, locations around the country will celebrate National Get Outdoors Day with opportunities for families to enjoy active outdoor fun and explore their public lands. Activities like hiking and bird watching might be expected, but art?
"I can't think of a more fun way to spend a day," says environmental artist, Bonnie Zimmer. She'll be one of two artists offering activities at Dunes Learning Center's Get Outdoors Day open house at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. An accomplished artist and educator, Zimmer is known for her work with natural and found materials.
"Creative play outdoors, working with interesting "stuff" from nature and the recycle bin alongside children and adults," is one of her favorite things to do. "Not knowing what we will come up with is very liberating," she says.
Zimmer will guide attendees in the creation of a large, temporary work of art over the course of the event. After photographing the installation, it will be dismantled and it's parts either recycled, or returned to nature.
Art is just one of many activities that will be featured at this day of free outdoor fun. Dunes Learning Center's education staff will lead themed hikes throughout the day, including one to the Little Calumet River. Northwest Indiana Paddling Association members will introduce kids to kayaking and demonstrate skills and safety. Live music, food and even a weather balloon launch are planned.
On Saturday, June 8, 2013, National Get Outdoors Day (GO Day) participants from federal agencies, nonprofit organizations and the recreation industry will offer healthy, active outdoor fun at sites across the nation. In celebration of Leave No Child Inside Month, Chicago Wilderness alliance partners—including Dunes Learning Center—have scheduled dozens of opportunities for families in Northwest Indiana, Northeast Illinois and Southwest Wisconsin to reconnect with nature.
Last year, more than 375 people enjoyed a day of fun and adventure inside Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. Admission is free but pre-registration is requested. Learn more online at www.duneslearningcenter.org.