The annual Walk Walton fundraiser event from 9 a.m. to noon on Sunday, Oct. 23, will give area residents an opportunity to enjoy a walk in the woods at Izaak Walton Nature Preserve, 1100 Ridge Road, learn about nature, and help keep the Homewood Science Center going strong.
With a nod to Halloween, the event will include spooky science experiences in Black Bear Lodge and jack-o-lantern decorating at the pumpkin patch.
University of Chicago professor Cathy Pfister will lead an exploration of marine biology at one of the preserve’s lakes.
The Forest Preserves of Cook County will be on hand to present on exploring nature, and the science center’s middle school conservation ecology interns will conduct a BioBlitz.
To help guests keep their energy up, donuts from Walt’s Food Center and hot apple cider will be available.
This is a family-friendly event. Children 18 and younger are free but must be accompanied by an adult. Admission is $25 for adults. There is a special rate for scout troops. Tickets can be purchased on the Homewood Science Center website at homewoodsciencecenter.org.
Organizers note that parking is limited at the Izaak Walton Nature Preserve. They suggest carpooling if possible. Additional parking is available at the Lions Club Pool parking lot on the south side of Ridge Road just east of the entrance to the preserve. Parking is also accessible on Center Avenue, Hickory Road and Olive Road.
This is a rain or shine event, so refunds will not be given in the case of inclement weather.